Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: A Thanksgiving Delight

Introduction

As Thanksgiving approaches, we all look for ways to elevate our menu and bring a little extra elegance to the table. One dish that has been a consistent showstopper in our household is Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus. The combination of tender, roasted asparagus wrapped in savory prosciutto, with just the right touch of crispiness, is a perfect addition to any holiday spread. It’s simple yet impressive, offering a beautiful balance of flavor and texture that guests will rave about.

I discovered this recipe during a Thanksgiving dinner a few years ago, and it instantly became a favorite. The salty prosciutto pairs so well with the fresh, crisp asparagus, creating a dish that feels light yet indulgent. It’s also incredibly versatile, working as both a starter and a side dish, or even an appetizer for a holiday gathering.

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to make. With just a few ingredients, you can prepare a stunning dish that tastes far more complex than the effort it requires. So, if you’re looking for a dish that will elevate your Thanksgiving meal, look no further than prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can make this dish, regardless of their culinary expertise.
• Impressive Presentation: The prosciutto adds a touch of sophistication to your plate, making the dish perfect for impressing guests.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: The salty prosciutto, combined with the mild, earthy flavor of asparagus, creates a delicious contrast.
• Quick to Cook: It takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it a great addition even to a busy holiday spread.
• Versatile: You can serve this dish as an appetizer, side, or even as part of a charcuterie board.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
• Nutrition Facts:
  • Calories per serving: 160
  • Protein: 9g
  • Carbs: 4g
  • Fat: 13g

Ingredients

• 16 asparagus spears: Fresh, tender asparagus is the star of this dish, providing a mild flavor that complements the prosciutto beautifully.
• 8 slices of prosciutto: Thinly sliced and perfectly salty, prosciutto is the perfect wrap for asparagus.
• Olive oil: Used for drizzling over the asparagus before roasting, giving it a nice, even cook.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds an aromatic kick to the dish.
• Lemon zest (optional): A touch of brightness to balance the richness of the prosciutto.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of parmesan goes wonderfully with the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus.

Step-by-Step Instructions

STEP 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will allow the asparagus to roast at a high temperature, which helps achieve a crisp texture on the prosciutto while keeping the asparagus tender inside.

STEP 2: Prepare the Asparagus

Trim the tough, woody ends off the asparagus. You can do this by gently bending the asparagus near the bottom; it will naturally snap at the right spot. Alternatively, use a knife to cut about 1 to 2 inches from the base. Rinse the asparagus thoroughly to remove any dirt and pat dry with paper towels.

STEP 3: Wrap the Asparagus

Take one slice of prosciutto and lay it flat on a cutting board. Place 2 asparagus spears at one end of the prosciutto slice and roll the prosciutto around them, wrapping it tightly but not too tight—just enough to secure the asparagus. Repeat this process until all the asparagus spears are wrapped.

STEP 4: Season the Asparagus

Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper. If you like, add a pinch of salt, though the prosciutto already adds plenty of saltiness to the dish. For an extra burst of flavor, you can zest some lemon over the asparagus before roasting.

STEP 5: Roast in the Oven

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the prosciutto becomes crispy and the asparagus is tender. The asparagus should be fork-tender, but still slightly firm to the bite. Keep an eye on the prosciutto, as it can burn quickly.

STEP 6: Serve

Once roasted, remove the asparagus from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. If desired, sprinkle a little parmesan cheese on top for added richness. For a final touch, serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bit of zesty brightness.

How to Serve

• As a Side Dish: This dish pairs wonderfully with turkey, roast beef, or even grilled salmon, making it an excellent addition to your holiday dinner.
• As an Appetizer: Serve these asparagus bundles as finger food for a stylish appetizer to kick off your Thanksgiving meal.
• With a Salad: Serve alongside a light, fresh salad to balance the richness of the prosciutto.

Additional Tips

1. Use Thin Asparagus: Thicker asparagus spears can take longer to cook and might not wrap as neatly. Choose thinner spears for a more elegant presentation.
2. Wrap Tightly: Make sure the prosciutto is snug around the asparagus to prevent the spears from unrolling during cooking.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Leave some space between the asparagus bundles so they roast evenly.
4. Adjust Cooking Time for Preference: If you prefer your prosciutto extra crispy, leave the asparagus in the oven for a few extra minutes.
5. Make It Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, you can assemble the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking.

Recipe Variations

• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary can be tucked between the prosciutto and asparagus before roasting for added fragrance.
• Lemon and Garlic: Add a few minced garlic cloves or lemon slices to the roasting pan for a citrusy, garlicky aroma.
• Stuffed Prosciutto: For a richer option, stuff the asparagus with a bit of goat cheese or cream cheese before wrapping it with prosciutto.
• Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: If you prefer bacon to prosciutto, substitute thinly sliced bacon for the prosciutto for a slightly smokier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a fresh green salad.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp, light white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the savory, rich flavors of prosciutto and asparagus.
• Cocktail Pairing: Try pairing this with a sparkling wine or a light gin and tonic for a refreshing drink that won’t overpower the dish.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crispy prosciutto.
• Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
• Reheating: To reheat frozen prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy.

Special Equipment

• Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet is ideal for catching any drips from the prosciutto as it cooks.
• Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the prosciutto from sticking.
• Tongs: For handling the hot asparagus once it’s out of the oven, tongs are very useful.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh asparagus, as frozen asparagus tends to be too soft and may not hold up well when wrapped in prosciutto. However, if fresh asparagus isn’t available, you could try using thawed frozen asparagus, but the texture may not be the same.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus up to 4 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for guests with dietary restrictions.

What else can I serve this with?

Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, including roast turkey, grilled chicken, and even steak. It can also be served on a charcuterie board with other appetizers.

Conclusion

Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is one of those dishes that looks and tastes much more complicated than it actually is. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for busy holiday meals like Thanksgiving, yet elegant enough to impress your guests. The salty prosciutto combined with the tender asparagus creates a flavor profile that is both satisfying and refined.

Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or having a more intimate holiday meal, this dish will be a standout on your table. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how easily it becomes a favorite. Don’t forget to share your results with me—tag me on social media or leave a comment below to let me know how it turns out. Enjoy your cooking and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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