Delicious Asparagus Roll Ups: The Ultimate High Tea Finger Food with Danish Blue & Prosciutto
Juicy asparagus, spicy Danish Blue cheese, bread, and salty ham form the delightful foundation of this exquisite recipe for Asparagus Roll Ups – a truly luxurious high tea indulgence.
Prepare to elevate your entertaining game with these elegant and incredibly flavorful Asparagus Roll Ups. This recipe takes the fresh, vibrant taste of spring asparagus and pairs it with a harmonious blend of creamy, tangy Danish Blue cheese, rich, salty Prosciutto, and soft, thinly rolled white bread. The result is a sophisticated finger food that is not only visually appealing but also bursting with a complex array of flavors and textures, making it an absolute must-have for any sophisticated high tea spread or special gathering.
While some connoisseurs refer to certain varieties of asparagus as “white gold,” we specifically opt for crisp green asparagus in this recipe. Its vivid color offers a striking visual contrast within the sandwich rolls, contributing to a more dynamic and inviting presentation. Each perfectly steamed spear of asparagus retains a satisfying al dente bite, which is beautifully complemented by the rich, piquant notes of the cheese spread and the delicate savory undertones of the ham. This combination creates an appetizer that is both refreshing and deeply satisfying.
One of the most appealing aspects of these delectable asparagus appetizers is their incredible convenience, particularly for hosts. These roll-ups can be entirely prepared a day in advance, allowing you to streamline your event preparations and significantly reduce last-minute stress. Simply assemble them, wrap them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just before your guests arrive, a quick slice turns them into elegant, bite-sized portions, ready to be enjoyed immediately. This make-ahead capability ensures you can relax and savor the company of your guests, rather than being confined to the kitchen.
The Art of Asparagus Roll Ups: A Symphony of Flavors
What makes these Asparagus Roll Ups truly special is the thoughtful combination of ingredients that create a perfect balance of tastes and sensations. The natural sweetness and slight bitterness of the fresh green asparagus provide a refreshing counterpoint to the bold, savory elements. The Danish Blue cheese, with its characteristic sharpness and creamy texture, melts seamlessly with the milder cream cheese to form a spread that is both luxurious and exciting. This rich cheese blend is then further enhanced by a hint of fresh chives, adding a delicate oniony freshness.
Encasing this delightful filling is a thin slice of white bread, meticulously rolled to achieve a tender, pliable texture that acts as the perfect vehicle for the flavors within. Finally, a generous layer of thinly sliced Prosciutto adds a whisper of saltiness and a wonderfully delicate, almost melt-in-your-mouth quality. The collective experience is a harmonious blend of crisp, creamy, salty, and savory, all designed to tantalize the taste buds. These roll-ups are not merely snacks; they are miniature culinary masterpieces, carefully crafted to impress and delight.
Essential Ingredients: Crafting the Perfect Bite
To truly master the Asparagus Roll Ups, understanding each core ingredient and its role is key. Precision in selection and preparation ensures every bite is as delicious as intended.
The Star: Fresh Green Asparagus
When selecting your asparagus, look for firm, bright green stalks with tight, compact tips. Avoid any that appear wilted or discolored. Green asparagus offers a milder flavor and requires less peeling than white asparagus, making it ideal for these delicate roll-ups. Steaming it to an al dente perfection is crucial – it should be tender enough to bite through easily but still retain a slight crispness. This preserves its vibrant color and ensures it doesn’t become mushy when rolled.
The Creamy Core: Danish Blue & Cream Cheese Blend
The heart of these roll-ups is undoubtedly the rich and piquant cheese spread. Danish Blue cheese, renowned for its strong, sharp, and slightly salty flavor, provides a wonderful depth that elevates the entire dish. If Danish Blue is unavailable or if you prefer a different profile, other spicy blue cheeses like Gorgonzola or Roquefort can be excellent substitutes, though they may alter the final taste subtly. Blending it with cream cheese ensures a smooth, spreadable consistency while mellowing the intensity of the blue cheese just enough to create a balanced, irresistible filling.
The Savory Wrap: Prosciutto Perfection
Prosciutto, a dry-cured Italian ham, is chosen for its delicate, salty, and slightly sweet flavor, as well as its incredibly thin texture. It adds a sophisticated layer of umami that complements both the asparagus and the cheese. While Prosciutto is highly recommended for its quality, other thinly sliced, mild cured hams could be considered if necessary. The key is to select a ham that doesn’t overpower the other subtle flavors but rather enhances them with its savory depth.
The Foundation: Soft White Bread
The choice of bread is more important than it might seem. Soft white bread, particularly square-shaped casino bread, is ideal because it can be easily rolled very thin without tearing. Rolling the bread flat is a crucial step; it makes the bread pliable and ensures a tight, neat roll that holds its shape. Removing the crusts also contributes to the elegant presentation and a smoother texture in the final product. The mildness of white bread allows the flavors of the asparagus, cheese, and ham to truly shine.
Preparation Guide: From Fresh Ingredients to Festive Bites
These Asparagus Roll Ups are designed to be as enjoyable to make as they are to eat. With a total preparation time of just 15 minutes, they are incredibly efficient for such an elegant snack. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to prepare components in advance, making it a perfect choice for those who love to entertain without the last-minute rush.
Preparation
1 day in advance
- These asparagus roll-ups can easily be prepared one day in advance. Prepare them fully, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and keep them in the refrigerator until use. You only have to slice them just before the start of your high tea, and you can serve them immediately, allowing for a relaxed hosting experience.
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📖 Recipe
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
Pin Recipe
Equipment
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Steam oven or a pan with a steam basket
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Rolling Pin
Ingredients
- 24 green asparagus
- 100 grams cream cheese , room temperature
- 50 grams Danish Blue cheese , (or another spicy cheese)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chives , finely chopped
- 12 slices white bread , casino bread is best because of its square shape.
- 12 slices Prosciutto
All my recipes are written both in Metric (gram / ml) and US Customary (cups / pounds). Here you can select which type of amount you would like to see.
Instructions
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Wash the asparagus thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
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To prepare the asparagus, gently bend each spear until it naturally snaps (see notes for a tip on this). Discard the woody bottom end and place the tender part into a steam basket. Repeat this process for all 24 asparagus spears.
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Bring a medium-sized pan of water to a rolling boil.
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Once the water is boiling, place the steam basket with the asparagus over the pan. Steam the asparagus until it is al dente (firm yet tender) for approximately 6 minutes. This step can also be performed in a steam oven if preferred. Always check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of a spear with a fork (see notes).
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine the room temperature cream cheese, crumbled Danish Blue cheese, mayonnaise, and finely chopped chives. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
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Place one slice of white bread on a clean work surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the bread as flat and thin as possible. The thinner the bread, the more easily it will roll and hold its shape.
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Carefully cut off the crusts from the rolled-flat bread slice. This ensures a neat appearance and a consistent texture for the roll-ups.
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Evenly spread a thin layer of the prepared cream cheese mixture over the entire surface of the flattened bread slice.
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Carefully place a slice of Prosciutto over the cream cheese mixture. If the Prosciutto slice is too large, you can cut it in half and arrange it to cover the entire bread slice.
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Place two steamed asparagus spears on one side of the bread slice. To ensure even thickness and a beautiful spiral when sliced, arrange them opposite each other (one with the tip facing out, the other with the end facing out). Trim any excess asparagus that extends too far beyond the edge of the bread.
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Starting from the side with the asparagus, tightly roll the bread, pressing gently to create a compact log. The tighter the roll, the better it will hold its shape.
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Place the rolled bread seam-side down onto a piece of plastic wrap. Wrap it tightly, ensuring no air gets in. This helps the roll to set and firm up. Refrigerate for at least one hour, or preferably longer (up to 24 hours).
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Just before serving, remove the chilled asparagus roll ups from the refrigerator. Unwrap them and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut each log in half or into smaller bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a serving platter and serve immediately for optimal freshness and flavor.
Notes
- To easily break asparagus at the right spot, grasp the spear with one hand in the middle and the other hand at the bottom. Gently bend it, and it will naturally snap where the tough, woody part meets the tender, edible stalk. This ensures you only use the best portion of the asparagus.
- To check if asparagus is perfectly al dente, pierce the thickest part of a spear with a fork. The fork should glide in easily without resistance, but the asparagus should still feel firm and not soft or limp. Overcooked asparagus will lose its vibrant color and desirable texture.
Nutrition
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Beyond the Recipe: Expert Tips & Creative Variations
Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas
These elegant Asparagus Roll Ups are perfect for a variety of occasions. For a traditional high tea, arrange them beautifully on a tiered serving tray alongside other savory bites like mini quiches, cucumber sandwiches, and sweet scones. They also make an excellent addition to a brunch spread, a light lunch, or a sophisticated appetizer for a dinner party. Pair them with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied sparkling wine to complement the fresh flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Variations to Explore
While the classic recipe is a proven winner, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Consider substituting Danish Blue with goat cheese for a milder, tangier profile, or a smoked gouda for a deeper, nuttier flavor. For the ham, thinly sliced smoked salmon or even turkey breast could offer a different twist. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil can be added to the cream cheese mixture for extra aroma. You could also sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. The possibilities are endless for customizing these delightful rolls!
Final Thoughts on These Delicious Asparagus Rolls
These Asparagus Roll Ups are more than just an appetizer; they are a statement of sophisticated simplicity. Combining fresh, seasonal asparagus with bold Danish Blue cheese, savory Prosciutto, and delicate bread, they offer a delightful culinary experience that is both easy to prepare and impressively elegant. Whether you’re hosting a formal high tea, a casual brunch, or simply looking for a gourmet snack, this recipe promises to deliver on taste, presentation, and convenience. We encourage you to try them and discover your new favorite finger food!