Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus

Name: Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 bunch of asparagus (about 20 spears); 10 slices of prosciutto; Olive oil for drizzling; Freshly cracked black pepper; Balsamic reduction for drizzling (optional)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus as a quick and elegant appetizer for gatherings. The combination of the salty prosciutto and the fresh, crisp asparagus creates an impressive flavor contrast that always garners compliments. Plus, it's super simple to prepare—just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. Each bite is a delightful medley, making it perfect for entertaining or just as a special treat for myself. If you're looking to elevate your appetizer game, this recipe is a must-try!

Created by

Noelle Chambers

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:31:17.985Z

Every time I whip up Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus, I’m reminded of how simple ingredients can create a stunning dish. I love wrapping fresh asparagus spears in prosciutto because it adds a fantastic savory note that complements the natural flavor of the vegetable. I usually serve these at parties, and they disappear almost instantly.

One tip I've learned is to roast them until the prosciutto is slightly crispy, which enhances the texture and flavor even more. I often drizzle a little balsamic reduction on top when serving, which elevates the dish and gives it a gourmet touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavor from the prosciutto enhances the fresh asparagus
Crispy texture adds delightful contrast in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute entertaining

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of prosciutto plays a crucial role in this dish's flavor profile. Opt for a high-quality, dry-cured prosciutto that’s thinly sliced, as it wraps more easily around the asparagus and crisps up beautifully in the oven. The saltiness of the prosciutto not only enhances the natural sweetness of the fresh asparagus but also imparts a gourmet touch that elevates this simple dish into an elegant appetizer. Don't be afraid to taste the prosciutto before wrapping; the flavor should be rich and not overly salty.

As for the asparagus, look for firm, bright green spears that are not too thick. Thinner asparagus cooks more quickly and has a more delicate flavor, allowing the prosciutto to shine through. When preparing the asparagus, make sure to trim off about an inch from the woody ends, which can be tough and fibrous. To ensure your asparagus is crisp-tender after baking, avoid overcooking it; a bright green color with a slight bend should indicate they are done.

Baking Technique

Baking at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving that crispy prosciutto while ensuring the asparagus cooks perfectly. The high temperature helps to render the fat from the prosciutto, creating a delightful crunch. For an extra boost of crispiness, you can broil the asparagus for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Just keep a vigilant eye on it, as broiling can quickly turn to burning if left unattended.

When arranging the wrapped asparagus on the baking sheet, make sure they are spaced apart to allow hot air to circulate around each spear. This prevents steaming, which can lead to soggy bites. If you notice any overlap, use a second baking sheet. Additionally, parchment paper not only aids in easy cleanup but also prevents sticking, ensuring a perfect removal post-bake.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create this delicious dish.

Ingredients

1 bunch of asparagus (about 20 spears)
10 slices of prosciutto
Olive oil for drizzling
Freshly cracked black pepper
Balsamic reduction for drizzling (optional)

Feel free to customize the recipe with herbs or spices based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Asparagus

Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and rinse the spears under cold water.

Wrap with Prosciutto

Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting at one end and spiraling down to the tip.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus is tender.

Serve

Remove from the oven, and drizzle with balsamic reduction if using. Serve warm.

Enjoy this elegant treat as a delightful appetizer or side dish!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider marinating the asparagus in a little garlic and lemon juice before wrapping them.

Serving Suggestions

These Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus spears are extraordinarily versatile and can be served on various occasions. Pair them with a selection of cheeses and olives for a delightful antipasto platter, or serve them alongside a light dip, like a lemon aioli or a fresh herb yogurt sauce. If you want to impress your guests, consider plating them alongside a glass of bubbly or a crisp white wine, which complements the flavors beautifully.

For a more substantial bite, try serving the wrapped asparagus paired with a grilled steak or roasted chicken. Their flavor profile can cut through richer main dishes, creating a balanced meal. As an alternative way to serve, chop the finished asparagus into smaller pieces and incorporate them into a salad for that salty-sweet flavor contrast.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning for a gathering, you can prepare these bites in advance. After wrapping the asparagus in prosciutto, place them in a single layer on the baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. Achieving that fresh, crispy finish just before serving will wow your guests without causing stress in the kitchen during the gathering.

Leftover Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus can be refrigerated for up to 2 days, but for the best texture, consume them fresh. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat them for about 5-8 minutes or until warm and the prosciutto regains some of its crispness. Avoid using the microwave as this will make the prosciutto chewy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats instead of prosciutto?

Yes, you can use bacon or pancetta for a different flavor.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

You can use thinly sliced vegetables or even cheese wraps for a vegetarian version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can wrap the asparagus a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge until you're ready to bake them.