Asparagus Wrapped in Crisp Prosciutto 🌱🥓
Asparagus wrapped in crisp prosciutto is a delicious and elegant appetizer or side dish that combines the earthy flavor of asparagus with the salty richness of prosciutto. It’s a delightful blend of textures and tastes that’s perfect for special occasions or as a gourmet treat.
History:
The history of this dish isn’t well-documented, but it likely evolved from the culinary traditions of Mediterranean and Italian cuisines. Asparagus and cured meats like prosciutto have been staples in European cooking for centuries, making this dish a fusion of their flavors and textures.
Components:
- Asparagus Spears: Fresh asparagus is the star of the dish. Look for slender, young asparagus with tight tips for the best results.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced, air-dried, and salt-cured ham from Italy. It’s renowned for its delicate, savory flavor.
- Olive Oil: Used for drizzling and roasting the asparagus.
- Black Pepper: For seasoning.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, or balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Steps to Prepare:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Prepare the Asparagus:
- Wash and trim the tough ends of the asparagus spears.
- Drizzle them with olive oil, season with black pepper, and toss to coat.
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Wrap with Prosciutto:
- Take one slice of prosciutto and cut it in half lengthwise, so you have two long strips.
- Wrap each asparagus spear with a strip of prosciutto, starting at the bottom and spiraling upwards.
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Arrange on a Baking Sheet:
- Place the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick mat.
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Roast in the Oven:
- Roast for about 10-15 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus is tender but still slightly crisp.
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Optional Enhancements:
- You can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the asparagus for extra flavor during the last few minutes of roasting.
- For a burst of freshness, add lemon zest or a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
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Serve:
- Arrange the asparagus on a serving platter and serve immediately.
Time Needed:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 10-15 minutes
- Total: Approximately 25-30 minutes
This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for serving as an appetizer or a side dish. The combination of the tender asparagus and the crispy, savory prosciutto is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or meal. Enjoy! 😋🍽️
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus Wrapped in Crisp Prosciutto:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 3 asparagus spears with prosciutto):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Protein: About 5-6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2 grams
- Fat: 7-9 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Cholesterol: 10-15 milligrams
- Sodium: 500-600 milligrams (mainly from prosciutto)
- Vitamins and Minerals: Asparagus is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate. It also provides essential minerals like potassium and iron.
Health Information:
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Asparagus: Asparagus is a nutritious vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting, and vitamin A, which is beneficial for eye health. Asparagus is also rich in folate, a B-vitamin important for cell division and a healthy pregnancy. It’s a good source of antioxidants, which may help protect against cell damage.
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Prosciutto: Prosciutto is a flavorful, salty cured meat. While it adds a delicious taste to the dish, it is high in sodium and saturated fat. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.
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Overall: Asparagus wrapped in prosciutto can be a tasty and relatively healthy dish when enjoyed in moderation. The asparagus provides essential nutrients and dietary fiber, while the prosciutto adds flavor and protein. It’s important to be mindful of portion sizes and consider the overall balance of your meal to maintain a healthy diet.
Remember that the nutritional content may vary slightly depending on the specific brands of prosciutto and cooking methods used. If you have dietary restrictions or health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized advice. 🥦🥓🍽️
