Description

This easy, elegant appetizer features tender asparagus spears wrapped in salty prosciutto and filled with creamy, tangy goat cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for entertaining, brunch, or as a gourmet side.

Ingredients

Scale

1 bunch fresh asparagus (about 1 lb), ends trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
6 ounces goat cheese, softened (plain or herbed)
1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about half a lemon)
2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
12 slices prosciutto (about 4 oz; thinly sliced)
Fresh parsley, minced (for serving, optional)
Cracked pink peppercorns or extra lemon zest (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Rinse asparagus and pat dry. Trim off woody ends (about 1 inch from the bottom). Peel lower half if spears are thick (optional).
Toss asparagus spears in a large bowl with olive oil and black pepper. Spread out on the baking sheet.
In a small bowl, mix goat cheese, lemon zest, and chives until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Using a small spoon or spatula, smear about 1 teaspoon of the goat cheese mixture onto each asparagus spear.
Lay a slice of prosciutto flat. Place a cheese-topped asparagus spear at one end and roll up tightly, spiraling the prosciutto down the length. Repeat for all spears.
Arrange wrapped spears seam side down on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, until prosciutto is golden and crisp and asparagus is just tender.
If prosciutto isn’t crisping, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
Let spears cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pink peppercorns, or extra lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For best results, use medium-thick asparagus spears and thinly sliced prosciutto. Lemon zest in the cheese filling is essential for brightness. You can assemble ahead and bake just before serving. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese. For vegetarian, swap prosciutto for roasted red pepper or zucchini ribbons. Avoid overcrowding the pan for crisp results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 wrapped spears
Calories: 120
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 350
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 4
Carbohydrates: 4
Fiber: 2
Protein: 5

Keywords: prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, goat cheese, easy appetizer, entertaining, gluten-free, spring recipe, brunch, holiday, oven roasted, party food