Asparagus Wrapped In Smoked Ham
Elegant asparagus wrapped in smoky ham offers a delightful combination of fresh, tender vegetables with savory, salty flavors—perfect as an appetizer or light main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place one inch of water in a medium pan and add lemon juice.
- Insert a metal steamer into the pan and bring the water to a boil.
- Cut the asparagus into equal lengths and arrange them in the steamer.
- Sprinkle pepper and add butter on top of the asparagus.
- Steam the asparagus for 5 minutes.
- Remove the asparagus from the steamer and let it cool for two minutes.
- Wrap each asparagus spear diagonally with a strip of smoked ham.
- Serve immediately or cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful twist, consider using prosciutto instead of smoked ham. You can also add a sprinkle of garlic powder or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to enhance the taste. Ensure the asparagus is crisp-tender after steaming to maintain its vibrant color and snap. This dish is a delightful appetizer, much like the flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These asparagus wraps make an elegant appetizer or side dish, perfect for pairing with a light salad or a creamy dip. They also complement main dishes like grilled chicken or fish beautifully. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a refreshing cucumber salad, similar to what you might find in Vegetarian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover asparagus wrapped in smoked ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the asparagus soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Asparagus Wrapped In Smoked Ham contains roughly 258 calories, with 37g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1707mg per serving (74% 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 prepare the asparagus in advance?
Yes, you can steam the asparagus and wrap them in ham a few hours before serving. Just refrigerate them until you're ready to serve. This way, they remain fresh, and you can enjoy a hassle-free preparation on the day of your event.
What kind of ham works best for this recipe?
Smoked ham is ideal for a savory flavor, but you can also use prosciutto for a more delicate taste. Both options add a nice contrast to the asparagus. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand for the best results.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?
This recipe is not vegetarian due to the smoked ham. However, you can easily adapt it by using a vegetarian alternative like roasted red peppers or marinated tofu strips to wrap around the asparagus, making it suitable for those following vegetarian diets.
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).