๐จโ๐ณ Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles with Tomato Dressing ๐
Overview:
Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles with Tomato Dressing is a delightful appetizer or side dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the salty richness of prosciutto, topped with a vibrant tomato dressing. This dish is known for its elegant presentation and contrasting flavors that come together beautifully.
History:
The exact origin of this dish is unclear, but it embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Asparagus and prosciutto are both popular ingredients in Italian and Mediterranean cooking. The combination of the two, often wrapped together and roasted, is a classic way to enjoy these flavors. The tomato dressing adds a refreshing touch and enhances the overall experience.
Components:
- Asparagus: Typically, you’ll need fresh asparagus spears, which are crisp and tender when cooked.
- Prosciutto: Thin slices of prosciutto, a dry-cured Italian ham, are used to wrap the asparagus.
- Tomato Dressing: The dressing includes tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, herbs (like basil or oregano), vinegar (such as balsamic or red wine vinegar), and seasoning.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional garnishes like grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest.
Preparation Steps:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
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Prepare Asparagus: Trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears and blanch them in boiling salted water for about 2 minutes. This helps to soften them slightly.
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Wrap Asparagus: Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear. Place them on a baking sheet, seam side down, to secure them.
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Roast: Roast the asparagus bundles in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until the prosciutto is crispy, and the asparagus is tender but still has a slight bite.
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Prepare Tomato Dressing: While the asparagus is roasting, prepare the tomato dressing. Combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, minced garlic, vinegar, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
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Serve: Once the asparagus bundles are done, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle the tomato dressing over them. You can also garnish with optional ingredients like grated Parmesan cheese or lemon zest for extra flavor.
Time Needed:
- Preparing and wrapping asparagus: 15 minutes
- Roasting time: 10-15 minutes
- Preparing the tomato dressing: 5-10 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles with Tomato Dressing is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect appetizer for special occasions or a side dish to elevate your meal. Enjoy the contrast of the crispy prosciutto, tender asparagus, and the fresh, zesty tomato dressing! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐๐ท
๐ฅฆ Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Asparagus Prosciutto Bundles with Tomato Dressing ๐
Here’s some information about the nutritional aspects and health considerations for this delicious dish:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 3 asparagus bundles):
- Calories: 150-200 calories (may vary based on the size of asparagus and amount of prosciutto used)
- Protein: 10-15 grams
- Fat: 10-15 grams (mainly from the prosciutto and olive oil)
- Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 2-3 grams
- Vitamins: Asparagus is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K.
- Minerals: Contains potassium, folate, and small amounts of iron and calcium.
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: This dish is relatively low in calories, making it a suitable choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Protein-Rich: It’s a good source of protein, which is important for muscle health and satiety.
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Low in Carbohydrates: Asparagus is low in carbs, which can be beneficial for individuals on low-carb diets.
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Fiber Content: Asparagus provides a modest amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for immune health and skin health. It’s also a source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting. The dish contains potassium, which is crucial for heart health.
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Prosciutto Considerations: Prosciutto is high in sodium and saturated fat due to its curing process. It should be consumed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your sodium and fat intake.
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Tomato Dressing Benefits: The tomato dressing provides a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which is known for its potential health benefits, including heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers.
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Balanced Dish: This dish provides a balance of protein, healthy fats from olive oil, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from asparagus and tomatoes.
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Portion Control: While this dish can be a healthy addition to your diet, it’s important to practice portion control, especially if you have specific dietary goals or restrictions.
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Customization: You can further enhance the nutritional value by adjusting the ingredients, such as using leaner ham or reducing the amount of prosciutto to decrease saturated fat content.
Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods you use, so it’s a good practice to check product labels and adjust serving sizes accordingly to meet your dietary needs and preferences. ๐ฅ๐ฝ๏ธ๐
