Say goodbye to plain steamed asparagus! This Crispy Prosciutto & Balsamic Glazed Asparagus recipe is a game-changer, combining tender-crisp asparagus with salty, crunchy prosciutto, a sticky-sweet balsamic glaze, and fresh, vibrant garnishes. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—perfect for weeknight dinners or fancy dinner parties!
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Prosciutto : Adds a salty, crunchy contrast to tender asparagus.
- Balsamic Glaze : A sticky-sweet drizzle that elevates every bite.
- Fresh Herbs & Citrus : Bright lemon and mint balance the richness.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Customizable : Swap toppings or add cheese for a gourmet twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Asparagus:
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus (trimmed, about 1 lb)
- 4 slices prosciutto (or bacon for extra smokiness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper , to taste
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
For Garnish:
- Fresh mint or basil , chopped
- Lemon zest or wedges
- Crushed pistachios or almonds (for crunch)
- Shaved Parmesan (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Asparagus
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss the trimmed asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the asparagus in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 12–15 minutes , or until the asparagus is tender-crisp and slightly caramelized at the edges.
Step 2: Crisp the Prosciutto
- While the asparagus roasts, heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the prosciutto slices and cook until crispy, flipping occasionally (about 3–4 minutes). Alternatively, bake the prosciutto on a separate parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.
- Once crispy, remove the prosciutto and let it cool slightly before crumbling or slicing into strips.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Simmer the mixture for 3–5 minutes , stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Arrange the roasted asparagus on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Top with the crispy prosciutto pieces and drizzle generously with the balsamic glaze.
- Garnish with fresh mint or basil, a sprinkle of lemon zest, crushed nuts, and shaved Parmesan (if desired).
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of brightness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Texture Contrast : Crispy prosciutto and crunchy nuts meet tender asparagus for a satisfying bite.
- Sweet-Savory Balance : The tangy balsamic glaze pairs perfectly with salty prosciutto and fresh herbs.
- Speedy Prep : No marinating or complicated steps—just roast, crisp, and drizzle for a restaurant-worthy dish.
Tips for Success
- Swap proteins : Use thinly sliced bacon or pancetta instead of prosciutto for a smoky twist.
- Add cheese : Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy element.
- Make it vegan : Use maple syrup for the glaze and skip the prosciutto or replace it with crispy fried shallots.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat gently in the oven to preserve texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 4):
- Calories: ~180
- Protein: ~7g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fat: ~11g
Enjoy this Crispy Prosciutto & Balsamic Glazed Asparagus as a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s anything but boring. With its perfect balance of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
