Asparagus Ham Rolls
Creamy asparagus wrapped in ham offers a delightful combination of flavors, perfect for elegant appetizers or light meals suited to various occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of cooked ham.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in all-purpose flour and dry mustard until well combined.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly to make a smooth sauce.
- Cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the ham-wrapped asparagus.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 minutes until heated through and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey ham or a vegetarian alternative. You can also substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier fat option. If fresh asparagus is unavailable, frozen can be used but make sure to thaw and drain it well. To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or fresh herbs to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These Asparagus Ham Rolls make a delightful appetizer or side dish. They pair wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice. For a fun twist, consider serving with a dipping sauce like mustard or a creamy ranch dressing. Pairs beautifully with Honey Raisin Muffins for a balanced spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short intervals, but this may affect texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Ham Rolls contains roughly 1490 calories, with 73g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 107g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (154% of the Daily Value), protein (147% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (125% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2155mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus ham rolls in advance. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. Bake them just before serving for the best taste and texture.
What can I use instead of margarine?
You can substitute margarine with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter. If you're watching your calorie intake, olive oil is a great alternative that also adds a nice flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
This recipe is not inherently low-carb due to the flour in the sauce. To make it low-carb, you can omit the flour or use a low-carb flour substitute, like almond flour or coconut flour, while adjusting the liquid accordingly to maintain sauce consistency.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).