These Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles are a treat for the eyes and the taste buds! The flaky pastry wraps around fresh asparagus and salty prosciutto, making a perfect bite.
They’re fancy enough for a party but easy enough for a family dinner. I love dipping them in a little lemony sauce for extra zing—it’s like a flavor dance in your mouth! 🕺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Puff Pastry: This flaky dough is essential for the texture of your bundles. If you’re short on time, you can use ready-made pastry from the store. Alternatively, phyllo dough works too, although it’s flakier and might require extra layers.
Prosciutto: This Italian ham adds a wonderful saltiness. If you’re looking for a substitute, try thinly sliced cooked ham, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like roasted eggplant for a meaty taste.
Asparagus: Fresh asparagus is best for its bright flavor and crunch. In a pinch, green beans or zucchini spears can be used instead. Just make sure to trim them to a similar size.
Cheese: I go for mozzarella for its meltiness. You could use cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a non-dairy option. Mixing cheese types adds flavor, so experiment if you like!
How Do I Make Sure My Puff Pastry is Perfectly Flaky?
The key to great puff pastry is keeping it cold and working quickly. Here are a few helpful tips:
- Always roll your puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.
- Keep the pastry chilled until ready to use; if it gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a bit.
- Make sure to pinch the seams tightly to avoid them opening up while baking.
Also, a good egg wash (beaten egg) gives your bundles a lovely, golden brown finish, so don’t skip that step!
How to Make Prosciutto Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bundles:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (thawed)
- 8 slices of prosciutto
- 1 bunch of asparagus (trimmed)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying these delicious bundles in about 35-40 minutes total. Perfect for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easy later on.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
On a lightly floured surface, lay out your thawed puff pastry sheet. Roll it out gently to smooth it out. Then, cut the pastry into squares—about 4×4 inches should do the trick!
3. Assemble the Bundles:
Grab a square of pastry and lay a slice of prosciutto diagonally across it. On top of the prosciutto, place 1-2 asparagus spears. Then, sprinkle a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese right over everything. It’s like building a little tasty tower!
4. Fold and Seal:
Now comes the fun part! Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the filling to create a bundle. Be sure to pinch the edges together securely to keep all that deliciousness inside.
5. Bake the Bundles:
Carefully place the bundles seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a nice golden color. Drizzle a little olive oil over them and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and some grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy!
6. Enjoy:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is beautifully golden brown and puffed up. Once they’re baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you want, sprinkle on some fresh herbs for extra flavor and a lovely touch. Serve these warm and watch them disappear—enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Asparagus Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the bundles to avoid excess moisture. You can thaw frozen asparagus overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave. Pat them dry before using to ensure the pastry stays crisp!
What Can I Substitute for Mozzarella Cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella on hand, you can use other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that the meltability may vary, so choose a cheese that you enjoy melting!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Puff Pastry Bundles?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bundles ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, you can brush them with the egg wash and bake directly from the fridge—no need to let them come to room temperature.
