🥦🥓 Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears 🥦🥓
Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears is a delightful appetizer or side dish that combines the earthy, tender crunch of asparagus with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a popular choice for various occasions.
📜 History:
The combination of asparagus and cured meats like prosciutto has been a classic pairing in Italian cuisine for centuries. Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, known as “Asparagi alla Prosciutto,” has deep roots in Italian culinary traditions, where it was enjoyed as an elegant and flavorful dish. This combination has since gained popularity worldwide and is now a favorite on many restaurant menus and home kitchens.
🥘 Components:
To make Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears, you’ll need the following components:
- Fresh asparagus spears
- Thinly sliced prosciutto
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or balsamic glaze for garnish
👩🍳 Preparation:
Here are the steps to prepare this delicious dish:
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Prep the Asparagus: Start by washing and trimming the tough ends of the asparagus. You can do this by snapping off the woody parts at the bottom or cutting them.
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Wrap with Prosciutto: Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear. You may need to cut the prosciutto slices in half lengthwise to make it easier to wrap. The prosciutto will naturally stick to the asparagus due to its moisture.
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Season: Place the wrapped asparagus spears on a baking sheet or in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle them with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at this stage if desired.
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Roast or Grill: You can either roast the spears in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes or grill them over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. The goal is to cook the asparagus until it’s tender but still crisp and the prosciutto becomes slightly crispy.
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Serve: Once they’re done, arrange the asparagus and prosciutto spears on a serving platter. Optionally, drizzle with a balsamic glaze for extra flavor. Serve them hot.
⏱️ Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears depends on the cooking method and the quantity you’re making. In general, it should take around 20-30 minutes, including prep time. It’s a relatively quick and straightforward dish that can be prepared in a short amount of time.
Enjoy this delectable and visually stunning dish that beautifully balances the flavors of asparagus and prosciutto! 🍽️😊
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 3 Spears):
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 7 grams
- Fat: 5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3 grams
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5 grams
- Cholesterol: 10 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugars: 0 grams
- Vitamin A: 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 15% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 25% of the DV
- Folate: 10% of the DV
- Iron: 10% of the DV
- Potassium: 10% of the DV
- Sodium: 560 milligrams (can vary depending on the prosciutto and seasonings used)
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears are relatively low in calories, making them a healthy option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Protein: This dish provides a moderate amount of protein, which is important for muscle health and overall body function.
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Healthy Fats: While prosciutto does contain fat, it’s primarily monounsaturated fat, which is considered a heart-healthy fat. However, it’s also worth noting that it can be high in sodium, so portion control is important.
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Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K. It’s also a good source of folate, which is important for cell division.
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Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb or ketogenic diets.
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Sodium Content: The sodium content can vary depending on the prosciutto and seasonings used. If you’re concerned about sodium intake, choose prosciutto and seasonings with lower salt content.
As with any dish, moderation is key, and it’s important to consider your overall dietary needs and goals. Asparagus and Prosciutto Spears can be a nutritious and delicious addition to a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.
