When the elves gather for a cozy winter feast, I always make sure to include something warm, crisp, and a bit more refined among all the hearty holiday treats. These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears roast to tender perfection, with salty prosciutto turning beautifully crisp in the oven. They are simple, festive, and perfect for balancing out richer holiday dishes.
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
8 to 10 thin slices prosciutto
1 tablespoon olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper
Optional: shaved Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Trim the tough ends from the asparagus.
Cut each slice of prosciutto in half lengthwise.
Wrap one strip of prosciutto around each asparagus spear, starting just below the tip and spiraling downward.
Place the wrapped asparagus on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil and add a pinch of black pepper.
Roast for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus is tender.
Serve warm, with optional Parmesan or lemon for a bright finish.
Choose medium-thickness asparagus for best texture.
Serve upright in a tall glass for a buffet-style display.
These reheat nicely in a 350-degree oven for 5 minutes.
Garlic version: Add a very light brushing of garlic oil before roasting.
Parmesan crust: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan during the last 2 minutes of baking.
Holiday herb version: Add finely chopped rosemary or thyme.