Oh, let me tell you about one of my favorite go-to appetizers: Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus! This dish not only looks fancy but is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for entertaining or just enjoying a cozy night in. I first tried this delightful combo at a friend’s barbecue, and it was love at first bite! The salty, savory prosciutto perfectly complements the fresh, earthy flavor of the asparagus, and that smoky grilled goodness just elevates it to a whole new level!
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even pop it on top of a salad for a little extra flair. Plus, it always impresses guests, and that feeling of being the “host with the most” is just priceless. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this delectable recipe!
What’s in Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus?
Asparagus: The star of the show! These lovely green stalks are crunchy and nutritious, packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K. I prefer using thick asparagus since they hold up well to grilling.
Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham adds a salty richness to our dish. I like to splurge a little and get high-quality prosciutto, as the flavor really shines through when grilled.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of this helps the prosciutto crisp up nicely and adds a touch of flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to because it’s light and aromatic.
Pepper: A simple seasoning that enhances all the flavors without overpowering them. I like to use freshly cracked black pepper for a little kick.
Lemon Zest: This brightens things up and adds a pop of freshness. Trust me, it truly takes this dish to the next level!
Is Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Good for You?
Absolutely! Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus is not just delicious; it also comes packed with health benefits.
Asparagus: As one of the best sources of fiber, asparagus helps keep the digestive system happy. It’s low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice!
Prosciutto: It does contain sodium and fat, so while it’s delicious, it’s wise to enjoy in moderation. However, it’s a good source of protein as well!
Olive Oil: This heart-healthy fat is rich in antioxidants and good for your skin. Just watch your portion size!
In summary, as long as you don’t overdo it on the prosciutto, this dish can fit nicely into a balanced diet.
Ingredients List
– 1 bunch of thick asparagus (about 1 pound)
– 8 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– Zest of half a lemon
This recipe serves about 4 as an appetizer or a side dish.
How to Make Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus?
1. **Prep your asparagus:** Rinse the asparagus and trim the tough ends (about 1-2 inches from the bottom).
2. **Wrap it up:** Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around the asparagus stalk, starting at one end and spiraling down to the other. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover completely; a little variation adds charm!
3. **Drizzle and season:** Place the wrapped asparagus on a plate, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with freshly cracked black pepper and lemon zest.
4. **Grill time:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, place the asparagus bundles on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until the prosciutto is crispy, and the asparagus is tender.
5. **Serve and enjoy:** Plate them up, and maybe drizzle a little extra olive oil or lemon juice on top if you’re feeling fancy!
Serving Suggestions for Your Grilled Delights
These stunning little bundles are great as they are, but here are some ideas to kick it up a notch:
– Serve them alongside a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy dip.
– Toss them into a salad for added texture and flavor.
– Pair with some fresh crusty bread or a cheese platter for a complete appetizer spread.
Now that you’ve got all the juicy details on how to make this delicious Grilled Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus, I can’t wait for you to give it a try! It’s one of those dishes that you’ll find yourself making time and again, whether it’s for family gatherings, dinner parties, or just treating yourself after a long day. Once you’ve made it, let me know how it turned out—I always love hearing your cooking adventures!