Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Bright green shoots of asparagus are wrapped in paper-thin slices of Prosciutto di Parma and then oven-roasted to tender-crisp deliciousness. With minimal ingredients and minimal time, you can create this gluten-free, dairy-free, Paleo, AIP, and low-carb appetizer or side that is sure to please. 

When you’re on a restricted diet like Paleo or AIP, flavor bomb ingredients like prosciutto are key to keeping your meals high on the enjoyment scale. This recipe is one of my go-to’s for parties and potlucks because it’s a hit with everyone (besides vegetarians, of course), and fits so many common dietary restrictions.

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This recipe was featured on Thyroid-healthy Bites, episode 25: 

Chef's Notes:

Parma Ham, also known as Prosciutto di Parma, is the ideal choice here. This special ham carries the distinctive sweet flavor imbued by a centuries-old process of curing with only salt and the fresh-air breezes of Parma, Italy. This method is time-honored, safeguarded, and closely monitored by the Consorzio del Prosciutto di Parma, so that when you purchase genuine Prosciutto di Parma you can feel confident in the purity of ingredients used. No nitrates, preservatives, sugar, or artificial ingredients are allowed.

I use a couple simple flavor-boosting hacks to put these over the top without too much fuss. First, we're going to coat the asparagus in a garlic-infused oil. We slice a garlic clove into coins and sizzle them in olive oil until golden. Not only does this taste amazing on the asparagus, but it also provides a crispy garnish. 

The other flavor-boost I like to use here is truffle salt. Sorry, my chef hat is showing, but if you like the pungent, mushroomy flavor of truffles and have some truffle salt on hand, this is an opportune moment to put it to good use. Otherwise, a sprinkle of fine sea salt will do. 

This is a great recipe for those pencil-thin shoots of early spring since you can wrap them up in bundles of 3 to 5 and serve them as a side dish. Thicker spears can be wrapped individually, and make fantastic finger food. Whichever you fancy, just do yourself a favor and make these! 

Try this next! Herb Roasted (or Grilled) Asparagus

Thyroid-healthy Highlights of Asparagus:

• Very high  in Folate (34% DV per 1/2 cup)
• 1.8g fiber per 1/2 cup serving
• Very good source of protein (2.2 g per 1/2 cup serving), vitamin A (18% DV per serving), vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K (57% DV), Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Folate, Iron, Phosphorus, Potassium, Copper, Manganese, and Selenium.
• Good source of thyroid-supporting nutrients like vitamin B6, Magnesium, and Zinc.
• All these nutrients for only 20 calories per 1/2 cup serving.

Happy cooking, happy thriving, and enjoy the recipe (below)!

P.S. Need more thyroid-friendly recipe inspiration? I’ve got you covered. My Thyroid-friendly Everyday eCookbook features over 50 quick and easy, thyroid-friendly recipes your whole family will love. To take a peek at what’s inside, CLICK HERE.

 

More Thyroid-healthy Sides:

• Bacon and Chive Scalloped Sweet Potatoes
• Toasted Quinoa
• Parsnip Sage Risotto
• Mashed Winter Squash - 3 Ways
• The Ultimate Gluten and Dairy-free Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
• Crispy Grill Fries
• Roasted Green Beans with Mushrooms & Bacon