Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus & Melon
Whether you’re hosting friends or bringing a dish to share, Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus offers a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. Paired with cantaloupe, delicate prosciutto, and an optional balsamic reduction, it’s an appetizer that’s sure to impress.
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Italian Translation: Prosciutto Melone e Asparagi
Region of Origin: Emila-Romagna
Wine Pairing Suggestion: bubbly Prosecco
Category: Appetizer [Antipasto]
Michelle’s Cucina
A note from my kitchen to yours.
The combination of salty prosciutto, sweet cantaloupe, crisp asparagus, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction creates a wonderful balance of flavors that’s perfect for leisurely gatherings around the table. If you haven’t tried my Easy Balsamic Reduction, it’s an excellent finishing touch that complements each bite without overpowering the delicate ingredients.
Why this recipe works: Blanching the asparagus keeps it vibrant and crisp-tender, while preparing the bundles ahead of time makes entertaining feel relaxed and effortless. A homemade balsamic reduction provides the perfect finishing touch just before serving.
Ingredients for PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED ASPARAGUS:
Full measurements in the recipe card below.
- Prosciutto Slices
- Asparagus Spears
- Cantaloupe
- Optional: Balsamic Reduction, 10-min recipe:
Recommended kitchen tools:
- Large Bowl
- Spider Utensil or Slotted Spoon
- Large Pot
- Rectangle Serving Platter
How to Make PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED ASPARAGUS:
STEP 1: Prep.
Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; and slice or trim the ingredients.
STEP 2: Blanch.
Blanch the asparagus for 45–60 seconds, then transfer immediately to the ice bath using a spider or slotted spoon. Drain the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange the asparagus, cantaloupe slices, and prosciutto strips on a cutting board.
STEP 3: Assemble.
Assemble each bundle by placing three asparagus spears on one cantaloupe slice. Wrap one strip of prosciutto around the center to secure everything together. Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Arrange the bundles on a serving platter. If desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic reduction just before serving.
How to Serve PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED ASPARAGUS:
- Serve alongside crostini, marinated olives, and mixed nuts
- Pair with a glass of bubbly Prosecco, or chilled white wine
La Vita, Simplified:
Serving Favorite: Long rectangular platters beautifully showcase each bundle while making them easy for guests to serve themselves.
Kitchen Favorite: A sharp chef’s knife makes slicing the cantaloupe into even crescents much easier.
Pantry Favorite: Just a light reduction drizzle of Giusti Balsamic Vinegar adds wonderful depth and ties all of the flavors together.
Prep Tip: Blanch the asparagus a few hours ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to assemble.
PROSCIUTTO WRAPPED ASPARAGUS & MELON
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- Spider Utensil
- Large Pot
- Rectangle Serving Platter
Ingredients
- 4 Prosciutto Slices - cut in half lengthwise
- 24 Asparagus Spears - trimmed
- ¼ Cantaloupe - cut into eight ½-inch-thick crescent slices
- Optional: Balsamic Reduction - recipe linked below
Instructions
- Prepare a large bowl filled with ice water.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the asparagus for 45–60 seconds, then transfer immediately to the ice bath using a spider or slotted spoon.
- Drain the asparagus and pat dry with paper towels. Arrange the asparagus, cantaloupe slices, and prosciutto strips on a cutting board.
- Assemble each bundle by placing three asparagus spears on one cantaloupe slice. Wrap one strip of prosciutto around the center to secure everything together. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Arrange the bundles on a serving platter. If desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic reduction just before serving.
- Buon Appetito!
Notes
- Serving Tips & Special Instructions:
- Serve alongside crostini, marinated olives, and mixed nuts; and pair with a glass of bubbly Prosecco, or chilled white wine,
- Blanch the asparagus a few hours ahead and refrigerate until you're ready to assemble.
- Michelle's Kitchen Recommendations:
- More Italian Favorites:
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