Roasted Asparagus Bundles wrapped in Prosciutto with Seasoned Bread Crumbs

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Step 2

Butter a shallow baking dish that is long enough to hold the asparagus. Season the asparagus with salt and pepper, to taste.

Step 3

Divide the asparagus into 8 equal bundles. Arrange 2 slices of the prosciutto on a work surface so they slightly overlap each other. Place an asparagus bundle on top and roll up carefully in the prosciutto. Arrange in the prepared baking dish. Flatten the top of each bundle slightly and sprinkle with 1/4 of the seasoned bread crumbs. Drizzle with the olive oil.

Step 4

Roast in the oven until heated through and crisp, about 10 minutes. Serve at once on a platter with the sliced ham.

Step 5

1 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

Step 6

2 cloves minced garlic

Step 7

1/4 cup fine dried bread crumbs

Step 8

Pinch gray salt

Step 9

Freshly ground pepper

Step 10

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

Step 11

1 teaspoon freshly grated lemon zest

Step 12

1 tablespoon freshly grated Parmesan

Step 13

To make the seasoned bread crumbs, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Tilt the pan and then add the minced garlic and saute briefly until pale gold. Add the bread crumbs, season with salt and pepper, and lower the heat to medium. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bread crumbs are toasted, about 3 minutes. Pour into a small bowl and add the parsley, lemon zest, and Parmesan. Toss well. (The crumbs keep, tightly sealed and refrigerated, for several days.)