Asparagus Spears Rolled In Ham
Elegant and flavorful, these asparagus and ham bites are perfect for appetizers or light snacks, combining marinated asparagus with savory ham wrapped around each spear.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Marinate asparagus spears in salad oil, wine vinegar, salt, freshly ground pepper, and dried basil for two hours.
- Drain the asparagus thoroughly.
- Cut ham in half crosswise.
- Wrap each asparagus spear with a ham half and secure with a toothpick.
- These can be prepared ahead of time and kept refrigerated until serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using prosciutto instead of regular ham for a more delicate taste. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the salad oil with olive oil and wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar. Fresh asparagus can be used instead of canned; just blanch them briefly before marinating. Ensure the asparagus is well-drained to prevent sogginess when wrapped.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the asparagus rolled in ham as an elegant appetizer or a party snack. They pair beautifully with a light salad or a platter of cheese and crackers. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted potatoes or a warm grain dish like Spanish Barley. A refreshing cocktail or white wine complements this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wrapped asparagus on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Spears Rolled In Ham contains roughly 371 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 581mg per serving (25% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the asparagus rolls a few hours in advance. After wrapping the asparagus in ham, keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of ham?
If you're looking for a substitute for ham, turkey or chicken deli meat can work well. For a vegetarian option, try wrapping the asparagus in roasted red pepper strips or using a plant-based meat alternative for a similar effect.
How do I ensure the asparagus stays crisp?
To keep the asparagus crisp, avoid over-marinating them. Two hours is generally sufficient. Also, ensure they are completely drained before wrapping to prevent any excess moisture that could lead to sogginess.
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).