Asparagus bundles made with puff pastry are a delicious and easy way to enjoy this flavorful vegetable. Made with puff pastry, prosciutto and a creamy cheese. They make a perfect appetizer or side dish for any occasion!
I love asparagus because it reminds me of spring and because it is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be prepared in many different ways. Such as this Parmesan Roasted Asparagus a delicious Asparagus and Sausage Pasta to one of my favorite Pesto recipes.
Ingredients needed to make asparagus bundles
- Puff pastry – homemade puff pastry dough or store bought, you could also use pie pastry if you prefer
- Asparagus – fresh asparagus stalks washed and trimmed
- Prosciuto – thin slices of prosciutto crudo
- Salt – depending on how salty the prosciutto and or cheese is you may not need to add more
- Pepper – a dash or two of black pepper
- Cheese – provolone, fontina or swiss or even parmesan cheese
How to clean asparagus
- Under cool water rinse the asparagus spears in order to remove any dirt.
- Sometimes really thick asparagus will have a tough outer skin. It can be removed (if you want) with a vegetable peeler.
- Then snap off the bottom (an inch or so should be enough) by using your fingers, the stem will break naturally where the tough woody ends and the tender stem begins.
- Dry the spears by gently towel drying.
- Your spears are now ready for using in a recipe either leaving them whole or cut up.
How to make Asparagus Bundles
Wrap 3-5 spears of asparagus with a slice of prosciutto and set aside.
Unroll the puff pastry and with a rolling pin gently roll a couple of times to even it out. Depending on how big the sheet is cut into 6-9 squares. With a fork, prick each square a few times.
In the middle of each square place 1-2 thin slices of cheese.
On top of the cheese place a prosciutto wrapped bundle, place another piece of cheese on top of the asparagus.
Fold the puff pastry over the asparagus, wetting the ends to seal. Place the bundles on the parchment paper lined baking sheet.
If you wish you can brush with a little milk and sprinkle with a dash of black pepper if desired. Bake in the pre-heated oven until golden brown. Serve immediately.
What is Prosciutto Crudo
Prosciutto crudo also known as raw ham is a typical Italian cured meat. It is made by dry salting the pork leg. In particular from pigs that have reached a weight of around 330 lbs/150 kg.
Even though the product is obtained from the same cut and weight in countries other than Italy they cannot be compared to the Italian product. Because the particular production, techniques and in the seasoning in specific microclimates can only be produced in Italy.
Is Asparagus good for you?
Asparagus is packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium. Asparagus is also high in fiber, which can help to improve digestive health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Asparagus also contains antioxidants which may also help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
How to store the Asparagus Bundles
Any leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated. They will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Re-heat in the oven or microwave. It is best not to freeze them as the asparagus can become very mushy.
Asparagus bundles made with puff pastry are a delicious and elegant way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. They would make the perfect addition to your Easter meal or even Brunch. Enjoy!
Prosciutto Asparagus Bundles
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry or pie dough if preferred
- 24-36 stalks asparagus
- 6-9 slices prosciutto crudo (di parma)
- 12-18 thin slices provolone cheese or swiss, gruyere or fontina
- 2-3 dashes black pepper
- 1-2 pinches salt if needed (depends on the prosciutto)
EXTRAS
- 1-2 tablespoons milk for brushing (optional)
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 375F / 190C. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Unroll the puff pastry and with a rolling pin gently roll a couple of times to even it out.
- Depending on how big the sheet is cut into 6-9 squares. I got 9 squares, my puff pastry sheet was 13×11 / 32x27cm approximately.
- Wrap 3-5 spears of asparagus with a slice of prosciutto and set aside.
- In the middle of each square place 1-2 thin slices of cheese.
- On top of the cheese place a prosciutto wrapped bundle, place another piece of cheese on top of the asparagus.
- Fold the puff pastry over the asparagus, wetting the ends to seal. Place the bundles on the prepared baking sheet. If you wish you can brush with a little milk and sprinkle with a dash of black pepper if desired. Bake approximately 15-20 minutes, in the pre-heated oven until golden brown. Serve immediately.
Linda says
In a pinch can I use pie crust?
Rosemary says
Hi Linda, yes you can use pie crust. I meant to add that. Thanks. Take care!
Melanie says
Can’t wait to try this! Love your recipes, thank you for sharing. 🙂
Rosemary says
Hi Melanie, thanks I hope you like it. Take care have a great weekend!