This tasty dish features fresh asparagus wrapped in salty prosciutto, creating a crunchy and savory treat. The zingy lemon cream sauce adds the perfect touch of brightness!
What’s great is how simple it is to impress guests with this! I love serving it as an appetizer at dinner parties. Just remember, no regrets eating that creamy sauce! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is the star of the dish. Look for firm, bright green spears with tight tips. If asparagus isn’t available, you could substitute with green beans or zucchini for a similar texture but different flavor.
Prosciutto: This dry-cured ham adds a savory touch. If you prefer a lighter option, try using turkey or chicken bacon. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use thinly sliced and roasted eggplant or mushrooms for a similar wrapping effect.
Heavy Cream: This ingredient gives the sauce its luxurious texture. You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative, like coconut cream, to lighten it up. Just remember, substitutions may change the flavor slightly!
Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can work, but fresh is always better for flavor. Lime is another great alternative!
How Do I Get the Perfect Crisp on the Prosciutto?
Getting crispy prosciutto is crucial for this dish! Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Make sure to wrap the prosciutto tightly around the asparagus. This helps in cooking evenly.
- Coat the wrapped asparagus lightly with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also aids in crisping.
- Cook at the right temperature—400°F (200°C) is perfect. If they aren’t crisping up after 15 minutes, leave them in for a few extra minutes but watch closely!
Following these tips will ensure you have delightful, crispy prosciutto every time!
How to Make Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Lemon Cream Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 12-15 spears), trimmed
- 6-8 slices prosciutto, halved lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
For the Lemon Cream Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced or grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10-15 minutes for preparation and another 12-15 minutes for roasting, making this dish ready in around 30 minutes. Quick, simple, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for roasting. While it’s heating, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the asparagus from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Trim the Asparagus:
Next, wash the asparagus spears under cold water to clean them. Trim the woody ends by snapping them off; they should break naturally at the right spot. It’s quick and makes sure you’re only using the tender parts!
3. Wrap the Asparagus:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take each asparagus spear and wrap it with a half slice of prosciutto. Start wrapping near the bottom and spiral the prosciutto upward, covering about 2/3 of the asparagus. It should look lovely and well-covered!
4. Arrange and Season:
Place the wrapped asparagus on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, which will help with crispiness, and lightly season with salt and black pepper. Just remember, the prosciutto is already salty, so don’t overdo it!
5. Roast the Asparagus:
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes. You’ll want the asparagus to be tender and the prosciutto nice and crispy. You can check on them halfway through to see how they’re doing.
6. Make the Lemon Cream Sauce:
While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the delicious lemon cream sauce. In a small bowl, blend together the heavy cream, mayonnaise or sour cream, lemon juice, zest, and minced garlic. Whisk it all until smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to taste and add salt and pepper as needed!
7. Plate and Drizzle:
Once your asparagus is roasted, take it out of the oven and transfer it to a serving plate. Generously drizzle the lemon cream sauce over the top—it will make the dish even more appealing!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve right away with lemon wedges on the side. They’ll add a lovely brightness to each bite!
Enjoy this elegant, flavorful appetizer or side dish, celebrating the fresh green crunch of asparagus wrapped in savory prosciutto, paired with a bright and creamy lemon sauce!
Can I Use Speck or Bacon Instead of Prosciutto?
Absolutely! You can substitute speck or even thin slices of bacon for a different flavor. Just note that bacon will need a little longer to crisp up, so consider adjusting your cooking time accordingly.
Can This Dish Be Prepared in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the wrapped asparagus ahead of time! Wrap the asparagus and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before roasting. Just drizzle with olive oil and season before baking when you’re ready to serve.
What Sauces Pair Well with This Dish?
While the lemon cream sauce is fantastic, you could also try a balsamic glaze, garlic aioli, or even a simple olive oil and lemon dressing. Each will add a unique twist!
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or air fryer until warmed through to maintain that crispy texture!
