Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
These delightful Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles are a sophisticated and elegant appetizer perfect for elevating any gathering, from board meetings to weddings and festive parties. The fresh, tender asparagus spears are beautifully wrapped in savory prosciutto, then nestled in delicate, flaky puff pastry. Baked to golden perfection and served with a sweet chili sauce for dipping, these bundles are sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. An impressive yet easy dish that combines flavors and textures, making it a hit at any occasion.
16
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Prosciutto
8 long thin slices (Cut in half lengthways)
Asparagus
1 bunch (Trimmed (16 spears needed))
Frozen puff pastry
2 sheets (Thawed)
Egg
1 (Beaten for brushing)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2
Cut the prosciutto slices in half lengthways, creating thinner strips.
3
Take one prosciutto strip and gently wrap it around an asparagus spear, leaving the tip uncovered. Repeat for all asparagus spears.
4
Roll out the thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each pastry sheet into quarters.
5
Place a prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spear diagonally across each pastry quarter.
6
Fold the pastry over the asparagus to create an open-ended parcel, ensuring it's securely wrapped.
7
Lightly brush the surface of each pastry parcel with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
8
Arrange wrapped bundles on a baking tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
9
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
10
Serve warm with sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles?
They are a sophisticated appetizer consisting of fresh asparagus spears wrapped in savory prosciutto and flaky puff pastry, then baked until golden.
What ingredients are needed for this recipe?
You will need 8 slices of prosciutto, 1 bunch of asparagus (16 spears), 2 sheets of frozen puff pastry, and 1 egg.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius or 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long do these bundles need to bake?
Bake the bundles for approximately 15 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
What is the best dipping sauce for this dish?
A sweet chili sauce is highly recommended for dipping to provide a sweet and spicy contrast.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 16 individual asparagus bundles.
How should I prepare the prosciutto?
Cut the long thin slices of prosciutto in half lengthways to create thinner strips for wrapping.
How do I prepare the asparagus?
Trim the ends of the asparagus spears; you will need 16 spears in total for this recipe.
How should the puff pastry be prepared?
Thaw two sheets of frozen puff pastry and cut each sheet into four equal quarters.
What is the purpose of the egg in this recipe?
The egg is beaten and used as a wash to brush over the pastry, giving it a beautiful golden finish after baking.
Can I make these for a party?
Yes, they are an excellent choice for party platters, weddings, and festive gatherings.
Are these considered finger food?
Yes, these bundles are perfect finger foods for any elegant social occasion.
How do I wrap the asparagus?
Wrap a prosciutto strip around an asparagus spear leaving the tip uncovered, then place it diagonally on a pastry quarter and fold the pastry over.
Can I use a different type of meat?
While prosciutto is traditional, you could substitute it with very thinly sliced ham or pancetta.
Should the asparagus tips be covered by the pastry?
No, it is best to leave the tips uncovered for a more elegant and professional presentation.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is described as an impressive yet easy dish that is simple to assemble.
Should I serve these hot or cold?
These bundles are best served warm immediately after baking.
How do I ensure the pastry stays secure?
When folding the pastry over the asparagus, make sure it is wrapped securely to create an open-ended parcel.
Do I need to grease the baking tray?
While not strictly required if using a non-stick tray or parchment paper, ensure they are evenly spaced to prevent sticking.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized as a Lunch or Snack option.
Can I use thick asparagus spears?
Standard or thin spears work best to ensure the asparagus cooks through in the 15-minute baking time.
Can I add cheese to the bundles?
Yes, a sprinkle of parmesan or a small slice of cheese inside the pastry would add extra flavor.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the asparagus is dry before wrapping and serve the bundles shortly after baking.
Can I substitute the puff pastry?
You could use phyllo dough, though the texture and baking instructions would differ significantly.
Are these bundles gluten-free?
No, puff pastry contains wheat. You would need to use a gluten-free pastry substitute.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble them a few hours in advance and keep them chilled, but bake them just before serving for the best texture.
Is the sweet chili sauce mandatory?
No, you can serve them plain or with a balsamic glaze if preferred.
How many spears go in each pastry bundle?
This recipe calls for one prosciutto-wrapped spear per pastry quarter.
What if I don't have a pastry brush for the egg?
You can carefully use the back of a spoon or a clean paper towel to lightly coat the pastry with the egg wash.
Are these suitable for a vegetarian diet?
No, because of the prosciutto. You could omit the meat to make a vegetarian asparagus pastry roll.