When the grill sizzles with a medley of flavors, it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase fresh ingredients at their finest. Picture this: slender, vibrant asparagus spears delicately embraced by thin slices of prosciutto, transforming into a symphony of textures and tastes, just waiting to impress your guests. I stumbled upon this delightful pairing during a summer BBQ, and it has since become a staple at my outdoor gatherings.
Not only is this dish quick and easy, but it also elevates your typical side into something truly memorable. Grilling enhances the natural sweetness of the asparagus while infusing it with the savory, crispy goodness of prosciutto. Whether you’re hosting a lively BBQ or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, these Grilled Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto will have everyone reaching for seconds. It’s the ultimate low-carb delight that marries simplicity with elegance—let’s dive in!
Why is Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor to your table.
Flavor explosion: The savory prosciutto enhances the fresh taste of asparagus, creating a delightful contrast.
Impressive presentation: These delicate bundles are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.
Versatile addition: Serve them as a side for grilled meats or toss them into a salad for a crunchy twist.
Time-saving: Whip up this dish in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress and leave your guests asking for the recipe!
Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto Ingredients
For the Asparagus
• Asparagus – Look for vibrant, fresh spears, as they’ll have the best tender-crisp texture when grilled.
• Prosciutto – This dry-cured ham adds a rich, salty flavor; feel free to swap it with streaky bacon for a different twist.
For the Garnish
• Sliced Almonds – Toasted almonds bring a delightful crunch to each bite, enhancing the flavor of your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto.
• Lemon Zest – Adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the dish wonderfully.
• Balsamic Glaze – A drizzle of this sweet and tangy glaze ties all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Make Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto
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Trim Asparagus: Start by trimming the woody ends off the asparagus spears. Place them in a dish, and cover them with boiling water for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
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Wrap with Prosciutto: Strain the asparagus and wrap tightly with a single slice of prosciutto around 3 spears. Make sure to cover the asparagus evenly. Repeat until all the spears are wrapped!
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Preheat the Grill: Set your BBQ to high heat and allow it to preheat for about 10 minutes. This ensures a nice char on the prosciutto.
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Grill the Bundles: Place the wrapped asparagus on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill until the prosciutto is crispy and has turned a beautiful golden brown.
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Add Finishing Touches: Once grilled, transfer the asparagus bundles to a platter. Scatter toasted almonds, sprinkle lemon zest, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm!
Optional: Serve with a wedge of lemon for an added citrusy zing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto fresh and ready to enjoy later.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ungrilled wrapped asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Use within 2 months for best flavor.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat grilled asparagus in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This preserves the crispy prosciutto texture.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the asparagus bundles in advance and keep them wrapped in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This makes dinner prep a breeze!
What to Serve with Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto?
Creating the perfect meal means thinking beyond just the main dish; let’s explore delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated grilled chicken shines alongside the salty prosciutto, making it a satisfying complement to your meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, roasted potatoes add a comforting touch alongside the elegant asparagus bundles.
- Fresh Caprese Salad: The vibrant tomatoes and creamy mozzarella brighten the plate and provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the prosciutto.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter create a luxurious pairing, enhancing the overall seafood essence of your BBQ spread.
- Zesty Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon dressing introduces fresh textures and adds a healthy twist to your meal.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors from the grill, providing a refreshing sip with each bite.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet cleanses the palate, wrapping up your meal with a delightful citrusy finish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add variety with seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and herbs, their smokiness pairing effortlessly with the asparagus.
- Crunchy French Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread, perfect for mopping up any remaining balsamic glaze and enhancing the meal’s overall flavor.
Expert Tips for Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto
- Firm Wrapping: Ensure prosciutto is wrapped tightly around each asparagus spear to avoid uncurling while grilling. This keeps everything intact during cooking.
- Watch the Grill: Keep an eye on the grilling time, as it can vary. Aim for a nice golden-brown color on the prosciutto to ensure it’s perfectly crispy.
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider marinating the asparagus in olive oil and herbs before wrapping them in prosciutto for an extra burst of flavor.
- Toast the Nuts: Don’t skip toasting the sliced almonds; it brings out their nuttiness and adds a delightful crunch to your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If prosciutto isn’t available, feel free to use pancetta or streaky bacon for a different yet delicious flavor profile.
Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish your own—let’s explore some tasty tweaks!
- Dairy-Free: Swap traditional prosciutto for a plant-based bacon alternative to keep it vegan yet flavorful.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the prosciutto before wrapping to introduce a subtle heat.
- Herb-Infused: Mix your favorite herbs into the balsamic glaze for a fragrant twist that complements the asparagus beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Use crushed hazelnuts instead of sliced almonds for an earthy flavor and delightful crunch with each bite.
- Zesty Lemon: Incorporate a bit of lemon juice into the balsamic glaze to enhance the fresh citrus aroma, making every bite pop.
- Savory Garlic: Rub minced garlic on the asparagus before wrapping for a bold flavor boost that elevates the overall dish.
- Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the grilled asparagus just before serving for a rich, creamy finish.
- Veggie Boost: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or zucchini alongside the asparagus for a colorful and nutritious twist.
Each variation adds its own charm while keeping that beautifully grilled experience at the heart of this delicious recipe!
Make Ahead Options
These Grilled Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the asparagus bundles up to 3 days ahead. Simply trim and blanch the asparagus as directed, then wrap them with prosciutto and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their quality, ensure the bundles are tightly wrapped to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to grill, simply preheat your BBQ, then cook the bundles for about 10 minutes until the prosciutto is crispy and golden brown, delivering a delicious side dish with minimal effort!
Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right asparagus?
Look for fresh asparagus spears with vibrant green color and firm, taut stalks. Avoid any that show dark spots or look limp, as these indicate age and decreased freshness.
How should I store leftovers?
Store your Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy them later.
Can I freeze Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the ungrilled asparagus bundles in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 2 hours. Once firm, transfer the bundles to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
What should I consider when grilling?
When grilling, ensure that the prosciutto is tightly wrapped around the asparagus. This prevents unraveling during cooking. Also, watch your grill closely as cooking times can vary; aim for a crispy golden brown on the prosciutto while turning occasionally for even cooking.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Definitely! If you’re cooking for someone with a pork allergy or preference for alternative meats, you can substitute prosciutto with turkey bacon or even skip the meat altogether. This dish can be made low-carb and gluten-free, making it great for many dietary needs.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus bundles a few hours in advance. Simply wrap them and store in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This is a great time-saver for busy evenings or when entertaining guests. Just make sure to consume them within 3 days for the best flavor!
Grilled Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto for Perfect BBQ Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by trimming the woody ends off the asparagus spears. Place them in a dish, and cover them with boiling water for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Strain the asparagus and wrap tightly with a single slice of prosciutto around 3 spears. Repeat until all the spears are wrapped!
- Set your BBQ to high heat and allow it to preheat for about 10 minutes.
- Place the wrapped asparagus on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the prosciutto is crispy.
- Transfer the asparagus bundles to a platter. Scatter toasted almonds, sprinkle lemon zest, and drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.