After a long week, when the weekend arrives, I find myself craving something special yet effortless to prepare. That’s when I discovered the magic of Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly roasted asparagus spears, tender and vibrant, wrapped snugly in salty prosciutto, all kissed with rich garlic butter. This exquisite appetizer not only caters to my taste buds but also transforms any ordinary gathering into a gourmet experience.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—ready in just 15 minutes, it effortlessly fits into my busy lifestyle while also impressing guests at dinner parties. Plus, if you’re mindful of your carb intake, this dish is a low-carb delight that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you use it as a standalone appetizer or a sumptuous side, this recipe will elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary showstopper!
Why is Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes needed, this appetizer is perfect for those busy evenings or unexpected guests.
Irresistible Flavor: The salty crispness of prosciutto wrapped around tender asparagus creates a flavor harmony that’s hard to resist.
Gourmet Elegance: This dish transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated treat that looks and tastes like a culinary masterpiece.
Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a low-carb diet, this recipe satisfies without compromising your health goals.
Versatile Options: Customize it with Parmesan or lemon for a personal twist, making it suitable for any occasion.
Each bite will leave your guests asking for more, making it a sure hit at any gathering!
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Ingredients
• Discover the essential components for a delightful dish!
For the Butter
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
- Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for better taste.
For the Asparagus
- Asparagus Spears – The main ingredient that offers a crisp texture; remember to snap off the woody ends for the best results.
- Prosciutto – Salty and savory wrapping for the asparagus; using short slices makes handling easier.
Each element plays a crucial role in creating mouthwatering prosciutto wrapped asparagus that your friends and family will adore!
How to Make Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
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Melt Butter: Start by melting the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, adding the minced garlic once melted. Stir gently until the garlic becomes fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
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Prepare Asparagus: Take fresh asparagus spears and snap off the woody ends. Make sure the spears are bright green and firm before moving on to the next step.
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Wrap Asparagus: Brush each asparagus spear generously with the garlic butter mixture. Next, take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each spear diagonally, ensuring it covers most of the asparagus.
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Oven Method: Preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place the wrapped asparagus spears on the sheet. Season with cracked pepper and broil for 4-5 minutes, until the asparagus is vibrant and the prosciutto is crispy.
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Grill Method: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Arrange the wrapped asparagus on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and crispy.
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Pan Fry Method: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the wrapped asparagus in the skillet and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on them until they turn golden and crispy.
Optional: Serve drizzled with extra melted garlic butter for a richer flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Variations
Dive into a world of possibilities with this recipe, where you can easily tailor each bite to your taste and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Swap the garlic butter for olive oil to create a lighter, vegan-friendly option that still bursts with flavor.
- Cheesy Twist: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving for a rich, savory depth that complements the prosciutto perfectly.
- Zesty Kick: Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top just before serving to brighten each bite with a refreshing tang.
- Spicy Variation: For heat lovers, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a delightful kick.
- Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your garlic butter for a fragrant enhancement to the classic flavors.
- Sweet Surprise: Consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze over the finished dish for a sweet contrast that enhances the savory profile.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some sliced almonds or crushed hazelnuts for a crunchy texture that brings an extra layer of delight to every bite.
- Veggie Fusion: Wrap green beans or zucchini spears in prosciutto instead of asparagus for a unique twist that keeps the spirit of the recipe alive.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy this dish in ways you’ve never imagined!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the asparagus and wrap them in prosciutto up to 24 hours in advance, which saves you valuable time on busy nights. Simply follow the wrapping steps, then store the wrapped spears in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crispy. When you’re ready to cook, just brush them with the garlic butter and grill, broil, or pan-fry according to your preferred method. This way, you’ll have an elegant appetizer ready to impress your guests with minimum effort and the same mouthwatering flavor!
Expert Tips for Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
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Watch the Heat: Keep a close watch when grilling or broiling to prevent overcooking. Asparagus should be bright green while prosciutto crisps up.
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Don’t Salt More: Avoid adding extra salt as prosciutto is naturally salty. A simple sprinkle of cracked pepper enhances flavor without overdoing it.
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Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic makes a world of difference in flavor compared to pre-minced. Use it for an aromatic boost.
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Perfect Slicing: Make sure your prosciutto slices are not too thick. Thin slices allow for easier wrapping around the asparagus.
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to try different flavors, like adding cheese or lemon. This makes your prosciutto wrapped asparagus unique each time!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus?
Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that perfectly complement each bite of this exquisite appetizer.
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Pomegranate Cobb Salad: A vibrant mix of bright pomegranate seeds and fresh greens adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the rich flavors beautifully.
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One Pot Orzo Primavera: This colorful pasta dish enriched with seasonal veggies offers a delightful contrast in texture and brings a light touch to the meal.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety smoothness paired with the crispy asparagus creates a satisfying, indulgent combination that warms the soul.
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Roasted Garlic Potatoes: The earthy notes of garlic and rosemary enhance the savory profile of prosciutto, providing a hearty counterpart to the lightness of asparagus.
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Sautéed Garlic Green Beans: Adding tender, garlicky green beans introduces a delightful crunch and continues the garlicky theme for a harmonious meal.
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Lemon Herb Quinoa: This nutty, citrus-infused grain dish provides a refreshing brightness while remaining light, a perfect partner for your main dish.
Try pairing these delightful options to transform your gathering into an unforgettable culinary experience!
Storage Tips for Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
- Room Temperature: Enjoy prosciutto wrapped asparagus fresh right after cooking for the best flavor and texture.
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap and freeze unused portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best asparagus for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting asparagus, look for firm, bright green spears with tightly closed tips. Avoid those with dark spots or shriveled ends, as these indicate age and tenderness. The thinner spears tend to be more tender and flavorful, but feel free to choose based on your preference!
What is the best way to store leftovers of prosciutto wrapped asparagus?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain their crispy texture. Enjoy them the next day as a snack or quick meal!
Can you freeze prosciutto wrapped asparagus?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze prosciutto wrapped asparagus. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can last up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven or air fryer!
What should I do if my asparagus is tough after cooking?
Very! If your asparagus is tough, it might be overcooked or you may have used older stalks. To prevent this, make sure to snap off the woody ends before cooking. If you find it still tough after cooking, you can try cooking it briefly in boiling water for just a minute to soften, before wrapping it in prosciutto.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! The Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus is naturally gluten-free as all the ingredients used (asparagus, butter, garlic, and prosciutto) are gluten-free. However, double-check the prosciutto packaging if you’re serving someone with celiac disease to ensure no cross-contamination has occurred.
Can pets eat prosciutto wrapped asparagus?
While asparagus can be safe for dogs in small quantities, prosciutto is high in sodium and fats, so it’s best to keep it away from pets. If you’d like a pet-friendly version, try omitting the prosciutto and serving plain roasted asparagus instead!
Garlic Butter Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus in 15 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add minced garlic and stir until fragrant.
- Snap off woody ends of fresh asparagus spears to prepare them.
- Brush each asparagus spear with garlic butter, then wrap a slice of prosciutto around each spear.
- For oven, preheat broiler, line a baking sheet with parchment, and broil wrapped asparagus for 4-5 minutes.
- For grill, preheat grill and cook wrapped asparagus for 3-4 minutes until crispy.
- For pan-fry, heat oil in a skillet and fry wrapped asparagus for 1-2 minutes on each side.