This baked prosciutto wrapped asparagus is perfect for your next dinner party. Serve it as an appetizer or as the side dish to just about any entree!
Asparagus wrapped prosciutto is not only a great starter to a fancy meal, it’s also a killer low-carb snack. There’s nothing quite like how the tenderness of the asparagus complements the saltiness of the dry-cured ham. As a bonus, we’ll also show you two alternative methods where you can wrap it with an additional layer of Mediterranean phyllo dough or pop these treats on the grill. YUM!
The Best Way to Trim Asparagus
Ever wonder what’s the right way to trim and clean asparagus? Check out this handy guide below.
- Rinse the Asparagus – Hold the asparagus stalks under cool water and rinse off any dirt or grime.
- Trim the Asparagus – With a sharp knife, slice off the woody ends of the stalk (they’re typically lighter in color and much more fibrous). Alternatively, snap the stalk with your hand (it will naturally break off at the woody end).
- Dry the Asparagus – Using a kitchen towel or paper towel, pat the asparagus dry (this will help the prosciutto stay on). Wrap and enjoy!
How to Prepare Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
A little light seasoning and a quick bake is all you need. The prosciutto adds so much flavor all on its own!
- Prepare the Asparagus: First, clean and trim the tough ends off the asparagus. Season them with a little oil and salt.
- Wrap the Asparagus: Next, wrap the asparagus spears with prosciutto slices.
- Bake the Asparagus: Finally, assemble the wrapped spears on a sheet pan in a single layer and pop them in the oven at 425°F for about 10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crispy. Enjoy!
Hot Tip: Add on a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and lemon zest on the spears right before serving!
Top Tips & Tricks for the Best Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Below, find a couple of helpful tips and tricks to help you nail this appetizer.
- Make a bundle if you’re using thinner asparagus. If you’re using super thin asparagus, wrap a bundle of 3-5 spears in one slice of prosciutto instead.
- Check the asparagus halfway through cooking. Give the asparagus a glance halfway through cooking to make sure the prosciutto isn’t overcooking. Depending on your oven, you may need to pull it a bit earlier!
- Line the baking sheet with parchment paper. To prevent sticking, line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Grill the wrapped asparagus for a smokier flavor. If you’re in the mood to fire up your grill, brush the outsides of the wrapped asparagus with olive oil. Place them on the grill until the prosciutto is crispy and the asparagus has a slight char (about 3-5 minutes per side).
- Add a layer of phyllo dough. For an even fancier treat, cut several sheets of phyllo dough into thirds and coat them in cooking spray. Wrap a strip around each spear, making sure to keep the phyllo you haven’t used yet covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Give the wrapped spears a final coating of cooking spray, bake according to instructions, and enjoy!
Ideas for Serving Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus
Serve the wrapped asparagus alongside some grilled chicken or a couple of lamb shoulder chops for a complete meal. If you’re preparing them as an appetizer or finger food, add them to a serving platter with marinated mushrooms, giardiniera, and assorted cheeses. You can also serve them with poached eggs for brunch.
Make-Ahead, Storing, & Reheating Tips
- Make-Ahead: Wrap the asparagus and store them raw in the fridge for up to 1 day if you want to work ahead. The next day, simply pop them in the oven or on the grill.
- Storing: If you have leftover spears, pop them in an airtight container to prevent the prosciutto from drying out.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat the asparagus is back in the oven or in an air fryer. Just be sure to watch the prosciutto doesn’t overcook!
FAQ
What exactly is prosciutto?
Prosciutto is a super thinly sliced Italian dry-cured ham. Unlike American ham, it’s dry and much saltier. You’ll need to be careful when you handle it, as it tears quite easily.
Can you use anything else besides prosciutto?
If you can’t get your hands on prosciutto, use bacon instead. This recipe for bacon-wrapped asparagus will show you all you need to know.
What kind of asparagus should you use?
Thick asparagus work best, but if you can only find thinner ones wrap them in bundles of 3-5 spears.
Should prosciutto wrapped asparagus be eaten hot or cold?
It can be eaten fresh out of the oven, at room temperature, or even chilled. It’s up to you!
Other Tasty Asparagus Recipes to Try
- Air Fryer Asparagus (So Easy) – Crispy, no-guilt asparagus
- Chicken & Mushrooms with Asparagus – Simple chicken stir-fry
- Asparagus with Bacon (So Easy) – Chopped asparagus with bacon bits
- Parmesan Panko Roasted Vegetables – Cheesy, panko topped asparagus and brussels
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus
- 1/4 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 tsp avocado or olive oil
- 1/2 lb prosciutto thinly sliced
Instructions
- Trim the asparagus by cutting or snapping off the tough end of each asparagus stalk. Season them with oil and salt.
- Wrap each piece of asparagus in prosciutto. Assemble the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 425°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until the prosciutto is nice and crispy. Enjoy!
WOAH! The bacon adds so much flavor and it's now our favorite way to eat asparagus! Thank you!
Hi Jessica- yup, add prosciutto or bacon to anything and it's that much better, hehe!
I make a batch of this and keep in the fridge for a quick snack or lunch. I love it so much!
That's a great idea, Heather! Thanks for the feedback.
This is one of my favorite dishes to make as soon as asparagus is in season! My whole family loves it!
Hi Anna- Asparagus is such an easy vegetable to prep, I love it! Glad your family enjoys it too.