Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Creamy Mornay Sauce

Looking for a sophisticated appetizer that impresses without the stress? These prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears are just what you need. The salty, savory prosciutto beautifully complements the tender asparagus, creating a delightful flavor combination. Topped with a creamy Mornay sauce, this dish elevates your culinary game and is perfect for gatherings or special occasions.

Imagine serving these elegant bites at your next dinner party and watching your guests rave about them. The luscious cheese sauce adds a rich dimension, making each bite a perfect balance of freshness and indulgence.

Presentation and Setting

Creating a visually appealing presentation enhances the dining experience for any occasion.

With prosciutto-wrapped asparagus, the vibrant green of the asparagus stands out beautifully against the crispy, golden-brown prosciutto.

When arranged neatly on a rustic wooden table, the dish exudes an inviting charm that draws guests in.

Soft, warm lighting can significantly elevate the ambiance, casting a gentle glow on the dish.

This sets the stage for a memorable dining experience that feels both intimate and refined.

The Ingredients That Shine

The key players in this dish are simple yet elegant.

Fresh asparagus, known for its tender crunch, pairs perfectly with the salty richness of prosciutto.

Together, they create a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture.

The creamy Mornay sauce, made from Gruyère cheese, adds an extra layer of luxury.

This combination of ingredients results in a dish that feels indulgent yet remains accessible for home cooks.

Preparing the Asparagus

When preparing this dish, start with quality asparagus.

Trim off the tough ends to ensure a tender bite, then wrap each spear with thin slices of prosciutto.

This step not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful visual layer.

Once wrapped, baking is the next step.

As the asparagus cooks, the prosciutto crisps up, offering a satisfying crunch that complements the tender vegetable.

Crafting the Mornay Sauce

The Mornay sauce is a highlight of this recipe, offering a creamy finish that ties everything together.

Start by melting butter and whisking in flour to create a roux, then slowly incorporate milk until the sauce reaches a smooth consistency.

Adding grated Gruyère cheese brings a delightful richness to the sauce.

Seasoning with salt, pepper, and a hint of nutmeg rounds out the flavors, ensuring every drizzle is delectable.

Serving Suggestions

When serving, arrange the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on a platter, allowing the green spears and crispy prosciutto to shine.

Drizzling the creamy Mornay sauce over the top adds not only flavor but also visual appeal.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine or a light salad, making it suitable for various occasions.

Whether it’s a casual gathering or an elegant dinner party, this appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Nutrition and Serving Size

For those mindful of nutrition, this dish offers a balanced combination of protein, fat, and carbohydrates.

Each serving provides a satisfying 280 calories, making it a tasteful choice without overwhelming the palate.

With four servings in total, it’s perfect for sharing among friends or family.

This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of these prosciutto-wrapped asparagus spears topped with a creamy sauce.

Elegant Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Mornay Sauce

This dish features crisp asparagus wrapped in thin slices of prosciutto, baked until golden and served with a velvety Mornay sauce. The combination offers a delightful crunch along with a creamy texture, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
• 8 ounces prosciutto, sliced
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap the Asparagus: Take a slice of prosciutto and wrap it around each asparagus spear, starting at the base and spiraling up to the tip. Place wrapped spears on a baking sheet.
3. Bake the Asparagus: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the prosciutto is crisp and the asparagus is tender.
4. Make the Mornay Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if desired.
5. Serve: Arrange the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on a serving platter and drizzle with the creamy Mornay sauce.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 280kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 8g