Irresistible Grilled Asparagus with Creamy Boursin & Crispy Prosciutto: The Ultimate Easy Appetizer
Prepare your taste buds for a truly exquisite experience! This recipe for grilled asparagus with creamy Boursin and crispy, salty prosciutto is a culinary revelation. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors – the tender-crisp asparagus, the rich and garlicky Boursin, and the wonderfully savory crunch of prosciutto. It’s so delightful, so perfectly balanced, that it’s bound to become a frequent request in your kitchen.
Here in the neighborhood, when something was so delicious it brought an immediate smile to your face and left you craving more, we’d describe it as an absolutely divine sensation. This dish evokes precisely that feeling. Every element combines to create an unforgettable taste sensation that’s both sophisticated and incredibly comforting.
Following our popular 4 delicious sandwiches to impress, we’re thrilled to share another fantastic recipe today: these delectable asparagus bites. They are an absolute highlight for a luxurious high tea, and equally perfect for a birthday celebration, a chic cocktail party, or simply as an elegant appetizer for any gathering. In fact, this recipe is so versatile and universally loved, it’s always a good idea. We encourage you to try it yourself; you won’t be disappointed.
Why This Asparagus Appetizer is a Must-Try
What makes this grilled asparagus with Boursin and prosciutto so incredibly special? It’s more than just a combination of delicious ingredients; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors crafted for maximum enjoyment. Let’s delve into what makes this appetizer truly stand out:
- Unforgettable Flavor Profile: The earthiness of fresh asparagus pairs perfectly with the creamy, herb-infused garlic notes of Boursin cheese. Add to that the salty, slightly chewy, and crispy texture of prosciutto, and you have a complex yet harmonious taste.
- Effortlessly Elegant: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. It looks impressive on any platter, making it ideal for entertaining without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Quick & Convenient: With minimal prep and a short baking time, these appetizers can be ready in no time, making them perfect for last-minute guests or a quick savory craving.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated high tea, a casual brunch, a festive holiday gathering, or just looking for a delightful side dish, these asparagus bites fit seamlessly into any menu.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of these classic flavors is almost universally loved. Expect compliments and requests for the recipe!
This recipe truly embodies the idea of “maximum flavor, minimum fuss.” It’s designed for home cooks who appreciate delicious food but also value their time. The balance of salty, creamy, and fresh elements ensures every bite is satisfying and leaves you eager for the next.
Ingredients Spotlight: Choosing the Best for Success
While the recipe calls for just three main ingredients, the quality of each makes a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your grilled asparagus appetizers. Here’s how to select the best and why they work so well together:
- Green Asparagus: Opt for fresh, vibrant green asparagus spears with tight, firm tips. Avoid any with wilted stalks or slimy patches. Green asparagus offers a distinct earthy flavor and a tender-crisp texture when cooked. For this recipe, look for medium-thickness spears, as they hold their shape well and provide a good ratio to the Boursin and prosciutto. Trimming the woody ends is crucial; you can snap them by hand, and they’ll naturally break where the tender part begins, or simply cut about an inch or two from the bottom.
- Boursin Cheese: The original Boursin “Garlic & Fine Herbs” is highly recommended for its creamy, spreadable texture and its rich, aromatic flavor. It’s an ideal complement to the asparagus, offering a delightful tang and herbaceous notes without overpowering the other ingredients. If Boursin is unavailable, you could experiment with other herbed cream cheeses or even a soft goat cheese mixed with a little cream and fresh herbs, though the distinctive Boursin taste is hard to replicate.
- Prosciutto: This Italian dry-cured ham is the secret to the crispy, salty exterior. Choose thin slices that are easy to wrap around the asparagus spears. When baked, the prosciutto crisps up beautifully, adding a fantastic textural contrast and a deep savory umami flavor. Prosciutto’s saltiness also perfectly balances the slight bitterness of the asparagus and the richness of the Boursin. If prosciutto isn’t an option, very thinly sliced bacon or pancetta could be used, but note that their flavor profiles and fat content are different, which might alter the final result.
By selecting high-quality ingredients, you’re already halfway to creating an unforgettable appetizer that will impress everyone.
Preparation: Simple Steps for a Stellar Appetizer
One of the best features of this recipe is its straightforward preparation, with the added benefit of being partly prepared in advance. This makes it a fantastic option for entertaining, as it reduces last-minute stress.
1 day in advance (Optional, but highly recommended for convenience)
- Begin by preparing your asparagus. Wash the spears thoroughly and snap or cut off the woody ends. Blanching the asparagus briefly (about 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then immediately shocking in ice water) can make them more tender and vibrant, though it’s not strictly necessary if you prefer them slightly firmer. Pat them very dry.
- Lay out a slice of prosciutto and spread a thin, even layer of Boursin cheese over it. The creaminess of the Boursin makes it easy to spread.
- Place one prepared asparagus spear at one end of the Boursin-covered prosciutto slice and carefully roll it up. Ensure the prosciutto adheres snugly around the asparagus and cheese.
- Arrange the rolled asparagus on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This step allows you to get a head start, saving precious time on the day of your event.
Half an hour before serving (or before your high tea begins)
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (approximately 350°F). If you’ve prepared them in advance, remove the baking sheet with the asparagus appetizers from the refrigerator.
- Ensure the baking sheet is covered with baking paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Spread the asparagus appetizers evenly on the prepared baking sheet, giving them a little space for air circulation.
- Bake the asparagus in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. During this time, the asparagus will become perfectly tender, the Boursin will warm and soften, and the prosciutto will crisp up beautifully, releasing its savory aromas.
- Once baked, remove from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the flavors meld and prevents any burning. They are delicious served warm, but also surprisingly good at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas
These grilled asparagus and prosciutto wraps are incredibly versatile and can elevate any occasion. Here are some ideas for how to serve and pair them:
- High Tea De Luxe: As mentioned, these are a perfect addition to a fancy high tea spread. Arrange them artfully alongside delicate sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Their savory profile offers a wonderful contrast to sweeter items.
- Cocktail Parties & Appetizer Spreads: Serve them warm on a beautiful platter for a sophisticated cocktail party. They are easy to pick up and enjoy, making them ideal finger food. Pair with other light bites like bruschetta, mini quiches, or cheese boards.
- Brunch Delight: Add them to your brunch menu for a savory, elegant option. They would complement dishes like frittatas, scrambled eggs, or even a light salad.
- Elegant Side Dish: Don’t limit these to just appetizers! They make an excellent side dish for a variety of main courses. Imagine them alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, a tender steak, or even roasted lamb.
- Simple Light Lunch or Dinner: For a lighter meal, serve a larger portion of these asparagus wraps with a fresh green salad tossed in a vinaigrette.
Pairing with Beverages:
- Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or a light-bodied Chardonnay would beautifully complement the flavors. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir could also work.
- Sparkling Wine: Prosecco or Cava offers a refreshing bubbly contrast that cuts through the richness of the Boursin and prosciutto.
- Non-Alcoholic: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime, or a light herbal iced tea, would be refreshing choices.
Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, a touch of lemon zest, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze (after baking) for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
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Variations & Customizations: Get Creative!
While the classic combination of asparagus, Boursin, and prosciutto is perfect on its own, this recipe also serves as a fantastic base for creative variations. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences:
- Cheese Alternatives: Instead of Boursin, try other creamy, flavorful cheeses. Garlic and herb cream cheese, whipped goat cheese, or even a soft, spreadable blue cheese could offer unique twists. For a lighter touch, a ricotta and herb mixture would also be delicious.
- Meat Swaps: If prosciutto isn’t available or preferred, consider other thinly sliced cured meats. Serrano ham provides a similar salty kick, while crispy bacon (pre-cooked slightly) or pancetta could add a different depth of flavor. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the prosciutto altogether. The asparagus and Boursin still make a wonderful pairing!
- Herb & Spice Boost: Before rolling, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes on the Boursin for a subtle heat. Freshly cracked black pepper, a touch of dried dill, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten the flavors.
- Citrus Zest: A tiny grating of lemon zest over the finished appetizers just before serving adds a beautiful fragrant lift that complements the asparagus and cheese.
- Sweet & Savory Drizzle: For an extra layer of gourmet flavor, drizzle a good quality balsamic glaze over the warm wraps just before serving. The sweet and tangy notes are a fantastic counterpoint to the saltiness of the prosciutto.
- Make it Vegan: For a completely plant-based version, use a vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based cheese spread with herbs, and omit the prosciutto. You could wrap the asparagus in thinly sliced zucchini ribbons or even puff pastry for a different texture.
- Grill it! While the recipe calls for baking, if you have a grill pan or outdoor grill, you can lightly grill the asparagus spears before wrapping them for an extra smoky flavor. Just be careful not to overcook them initially.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own! These small adjustments can lead to exciting new flavors and ensure the dish remains fresh and interesting every time you make it.
Nutritional Snapshot of Your Delightful Appetizer
While these grilled asparagus bites are undeniably delicious, they also offer some noteworthy nutritional benefits, especially for an appetizer. Each serving (one appetizer) provides a good balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins, making them a more wholesome choice compared to many other party snacks.
- Asparagus: This vibrant green vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s an excellent source of vitamins K, A, C, and folate, as well as minerals like iron and potassium. Asparagus is also rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which aids digestion and can contribute to a feeling of fullness. Its low-calorie and low-carb nature makes it a fantastic base for a healthier appetizer.
- Boursin Cheese: While Boursin provides a creamy, indulgent texture and flavor, it also contributes some protein and calcium. The fat content is primarily from dairy, offering a sense of satiety. When used in moderation, as in this recipe, it adds richness without being overly heavy.
- Prosciutto: This cured ham is a good source of protein and some essential amino acids. Its high sodium content is something to be mindful of, but in small portions, it delivers intense flavor that enhances the overall dish. The crispy texture also adds to the satisfaction without needing a large quantity.
With approximately 71 calories per appetizer, these bites fit well into a balanced diet, especially when enjoyed as part of a varied meal or snack. The combination of healthy fats from the cheese and protein from the prosciutto helps to keep you feeling satisfied. Enjoy these flavorful treats knowing you’re indulging in something that’s both delicious and offers some genuine nutritional value.
📖 Recipe
VIDEO
RECIPE CARD
Andréa
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Equipment
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A conventional oven is used. When using a convection oven (with air fan) decrease the temperature with 30 °F / 20 °C
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Baking tray
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Parchment paper
Ingredients
- 12 green asparagus
- 100 grams boursin
- 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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Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
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line a baking sheet with baking paper.
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Put a slice of prosciutto in front of you.
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Spread with a thin layer of boursin.
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Take an asparagus, holding the end in one hand and the other hand in the middle. Carefully break the asparagus in half. It will break at the point where the woody part becomes the soft part.
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Place an asparagus at the start of the meat slice and roll up.
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Place on the baking sheet and repeat for all asparagus.
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Bake the asparagus for 20 minutes.
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Let them cool slightly and serve
Nutrition
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Conclusion: A Simple Recipe, Endless Delight
This recipe for grilled asparagus with creamy Boursin and crispy prosciutto is more than just an appetizer; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly magnificent. It embodies elegance, ease, and irresistible flavor, making it a perfect choice for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to the most sophisticated gathering.
We’ve explored why each component of this dish is essential, from selecting the freshest asparagus to appreciating the unique creaminess of Boursin and the savory crispness of prosciutto. We’ve also provided detailed preparation steps, including valuable make-ahead tips, and suggested various serving and customization ideas to spark your culinary creativity.
So, go ahead and prepare these delightful bites. Share them with loved ones, and watch as they disappear from the platter with appreciative smiles. Don’t forget to engage with us: share your creations on Instagram using #byandreajanssen, leave a rating, and comment on your experience. Your feedback is invaluable!
Happy cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite of this truly special asparagus appetizer!