When it comes to appetizers, there’s something undeniably fancy about Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bites. These little delights are the perfect mix of crunchy, savory, and fresh – not to mention they look so gourmet that your friends might think you spent all day in the kitchen! In reality, I promise you it’s almost too easy to whip these up.
I still remember the first time I made these – I was hosting a dinner party for a few close friends, and I wanted to impress them with something that felt upscale but didn’t require a culinary degree. As these beauties came out of the oven, drizzled in the most mouth-watering balsamic reduction, my friends were in awe, and the compliments kept rolling in. It’s truly a dish I’ve gone back to time and again – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time!
What’s in Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bites?
Let’s dive into what makes these bites so scrumptious!
Asparagus: The star of the show. Fresh asparagus brings a tender crunch and a subtle earthiness that pairs beautifully with the salty prosciutto. Look for bright green, firm spears – that’s a sign you’ve got good ones.
Prosciutto: This thinly sliced, dry-cured ham adds an irresistible savory flavor and a satisfying crisp when baked. I usually go for a high-quality brand because the taste really shines through.
Olive Oil: Just a drizzle before roasting enhances the flavors and helps everything get that lovely, golden finish. I like to use a good extra virgin olive oil because it adds a fruity note.
Balsamic Reduction: This isn’t strictly necessary, but I highly recommend drizzling some over the finished bites for an extra punch of flavor. Plus, it looks fancy!
Pepper:** A little sprinkle adds just the right amount of kick to balance the richness of the prosciutto.
Is Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bites Good for You?
Absolutely! These bites can be a healthy appetizer option if you balance your serving size. Here’s a quick rundown:
Asparagus: Packed with nutrients, asparagus is high in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, E, and K, plus it has good fiber content which promotes healthy digestion.
Prosciutto: While it does add a bit of salt and fat, in moderation, it can be a part of a balanced diet. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to enjoy these in smaller portions.
Overall, while they’re not necessarily a “diet food,” they’re a fabulous addition to a grazing table or party spread.
Ingredients
This recipe makes around 12 bites, which is perfect for a small gathering or a cozy night in!
– 12 asparagus spears
– 6 slices of prosciutto, halved lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper
– Optional: Balsamic reduction for drizzling
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bites?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temp is just perfect for roasting your asparagus to a tender crisp!
2. While it’s heating, trim the tough ends off the asparagus spears. No one wants to chew on the woody parts, right?
3. Take a slice of prosciutto, and wrap it around each asparagus spear starting at one end, making sure to cover it evenly. The prosciutto should anchor itself fairly well, thanks to its clingy nature.
4. Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup, and who doesn’t appreciate that?
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the spears, and sprinkle them with black pepper. A little seasoning goes a long way!
6. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 12-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crispy and golden.
7. Remove from the oven, let them cool for a minute, then drizzle with balsamic reduction if you’d like.
Simply Scrumptious Tips!
– Feel free to experiment with other ingredients! For added flavor, throw in some garlic powder or parmesan cheese before roasting.
– Want to make it vegan? Try wrapping asparagus in thin slices of vegan cheese or marinated tofu!
– These bites are best served fresh and hot, but you can make them ahead of time. Just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
So, there you have it! Give these Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Bites a try at your next get-together. I’m convinced they’ll be a hit! I’d love to hear about your experience making them, or any twists you added. Happy cooking!