Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

It’s asparagus season and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus is a delicious way to enjoy this popular produce. Tender asparagus spears are lightly grilled then wrapped in a thin slices of prosciutto, a shaving of fresh shaved Parmigiano Reggiano, drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkling of fresh cracked black pepper. It’s an elegant appetizer or starter for a dinner party. (Originally published March 20th, 2014)

Ingredients for prosciutto-wrapped asparagus

This recipe has simple ingredients and is ready in under 20 minutes.

• 10 spears of asparagus, trim tough ends of the asparagus, (about 1/2 pound)
• 4 ounces prosciutto di Parma or prosciutto di Carpegna or any other dry-cured ham
• 2 ounces Parmigiano Reggiano, shaved
• 3 Tablespoons Olive oil
• Kosher salt and cracked pepper.

How to make prosciutto-wrapped asparagus

• Trim or peel woody ends of asparagus stalks.
• Preheat broiler to high. Brush each spear of asparagus with olive oil. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Lay trimmed asparagus in a single layer.

• Light season with salt and black pepper. Briefly roast asparagus for just 2-3 minutes, the idea is to cook, but not brown the spears.

• Remove from the oven and allow to cool until room temperature.
• Wrap each piece of asparagus with a thin slice of prosciutto
• Sprinkle with shaved cheese. Drizzle with olive oil.
• Season with additional salt and cracked pepper in necessary.

​What kind of asparagus is best for roasted asparagus?

I was always taught that thin asparagus spears were better. While it’s true the thinner spears are more tender than thick asparagus stalks, there is a happy medium. Thin, tender asparagus is ideal in Quiches, risottos, pastas and salads, but when roasting it, chose medium thick asparagus spears. Since prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are meant as finger food, choose stalks that won’t wilt.

How to trim fresh asparagus stalks

While most chefs recommend snapping the ends of the asparagus, you can also trim the ends with a knife for a cleaner look.

• You can also use a vegetable peeler to trim the woody ends.

Looking for more appetizers?

Sun Dried Tomato and Pistachio Pesto

Potted Cheese Spread

Charcuterie Board

Goat Cheese Dip

Mushroom Spread

Onion Tart

Smoked Trout Dip 

I really love simple food. Bacon Wrapped Scallops is another super simple, 2 ingredient dish, where the description is pretty much the recipe.