Elegant & Easy Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto: A Delicious Appetizer or Light Lunch

Looking for a sophisticated yet incredibly simple recipe that's perfect as an elegant appetizer or a light, flavorful lunch? Look no further than Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto! This delightful dish combines the tender, slightly earthy flavor of asparagus with the salty, savory richness of thinly sliced prosciutto. Baked or pan-fried to crispy perfection, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste.

Why You'll Love This Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto:

• Simple Elegance: This dish looks impressive but requires just a few high-quality ingredients and minimal preparation.
• Flavorful Combination: The salty prosciutto beautifully complements the mild sweetness of the asparagus.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it's perfect for last-minute gatherings or a speedy lunch.
• Versatile: Ideal as an appetizer, side dish, or a light and satisfying lunch.
• Naturally Low-Carb: A great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
• Visually Appealing: The contrasting colors and textures make for an attractive presentation.

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Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
• 4-6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced (depending on the thickness and length of your asparagus)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for pan-frying)
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste (salt is usually not needed due to the prosciutto's saltiness)
• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving

Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Asparagus: 

• Wash the asparagus spears and snap off the tough, woody ends. You can do this by gently bending each spear near the bottom  it will naturally break where it becomes tender.

Wrap the Asparagus: 

• Take 2-3 asparagus spears and wrap them tightly with a slice of prosciutto. You may need to cut longer prosciutto slices in half lengthwise to wrap them neatly. Ensure the prosciutto overlaps slightly to stay secure during cooking. Repeat this process until all the asparagus is wrapped.

Choose Your Cooking Method: 

You can either bake or pan-fry the asparagus.

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wrapped asparagus spears in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Pan-Frying: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the Asparagus:

• Baking: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and the prosciutto is slightly crispy and golden brown.
• Pan-Frying: Carefully place the wrapped asparagus in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender-crisp.

Season and Serve: 

• Once cooked, transfer the Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto to a serving platter. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also be added if you desire more saltiness. Serve immediately, optionally with lemon wedges for a bright finish.

Serving Suggestions for Your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto Lunch:

This elegant dish can be enjoyed in various ways for lunch:

• As a Light Main Course: Serve a generous portion of the wrapped asparagus on its own.
• Alongside a Simple Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• With a Poached Egg: Top the wrapped asparagus with a perfectly poached egg for added protein and richness.
• With a Creamy Dip: Serve with a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese, herbed cream cheese, or a light aioli.
• As Part of an Antipasto Platter: Include it with other Italian delicacies like olives, marinated artichoke hearts, and cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto:

• Use Fresh, Tender Asparagus: Look for firm, bright green asparagus spears with tightly closed tips.
• Thinly Sliced Prosciutto is Best: Thin slices will crisp up nicely without becoming too tough.
• Don't Overcook the Asparagus: You want it to be tender-crisp, retaining a slight bite.
• Secure the Prosciutto (If Needed): If your prosciutto isn't staying wrapped tightly, you can secure it with toothpicks before cooking. Remember to remove them before serving.
• Experiment with Flavors: You can brush the asparagus with a little balsamic glaze or sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before wrapping for added flavor.

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Enjoy Your Delicious and Elegant Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto!

This Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto recipe is a simple yet sophisticated way to enjoy fresh asparagus. Whether you're looking for a delightful appetizer or a light and flavorful lunch, this dish is sure to impress with its ease of preparation and delicious taste.