Cheese, Prosciutto and Asparagus Crusted Bundles

The first time I made these bundles was a happy accident, really. I had a half-eaten package of prosciutto leftover from a charcuterie board, a bunch of asparagus that needed to be used, and a sudden craving for something savory. I remember thinking, “What could possibly go wrong?” Turns out, nothing! The salty prosciutto, earthy asparagus, and flaky crust formed a symphony of textures and flavors that everyone raved about. They became a staple for everything from quick weeknight dinners to elegant holiday appetizers, proving that sometimes the best recipes are born from simple ingredients and a little bit of culinary improvisation.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 14-16 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yields: 5 bundles
• Dietary Type: Varies (Contains Gluten & Dairy)

Ingredients

• 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed (not the pencil thin variety)
• 1 can crescent roll dough (Pillsbury or any brand name; the kind that can be rolled out flat; Pillsbury even makes seamless sheets)
• 6 slices prosciutto, thin sliced
• 3 ounces herb cheese spread (Boursin or any herb soft cheese)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese

Equipment Needed

• Microwave
• Paper towels
• Cookie sheet
• Foil or parchment paper
• Small bowl (for melting butter)
• Pastry brush

Instructions

1. Pre-cook the asparagus: Lay the asparagus spears flat on a paper towel and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave for approximately 1 ½ minutes. This brief precooking step ensures the asparagus is tender-crisp when the bundles are baked.

2. Prepare the crescent roll dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press the pre-cut seams together to form one large sheet. This will give you a cohesive surface to work with.

3. Cut the dough: Cut the large sheet of crescent roll dough in half lengthwise (top to bottom). Then, cut each half into three strips, creating a total of six strips.

4. Spread the herb cheese: Spread a thin layer of herb cheese (such as Boursin) over each of the crescent roll strips. Avoid using a heavy layer of cheese, as this can make the bundles soggy during baking. A light, even coating is all you need.

5. Wrap the asparagus and prosciutto: Take 4-5 asparagus spears and wrap them with a slice of prosciutto. I find it helpful to alternate the direction of the asparagus spears (tip to base, then base to tip) to ensure they cook evenly and form a more stable bundle. Securely wrap the prosciutto around the middle portion of the spears, leaving the tips and ends exposed.

6. Wrap with crescent roll strips: Take one of the prepared crescent roll strips and wrap it in a spiral pattern around the asparagus and prosciutto bundle. Make sure you leave about an inch or more of the asparagus tips and the very ends of the bundle open and exposed, but the rest of the asparagus and prosciutto should be completely encased in the crescent roll dough. This allows for even cooking and creates a beautiful presentation.

7. Prepare for baking: Place the wrapped asparagus bundles on a cookie sheet lined with either foil or parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

8. Brush with butter and sprinkle with parmesan: Melt the butter in the microwave (usually 20-30 seconds is sufficient). Brush the melted butter generously over the crescent roll dough. This will help the dough turn golden brown and crispy in the oven. Then, sprinkle the bundles evenly with grated parmesan cheese.

9. Bake: Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 14-16 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the asparagus: Microwaving the asparagus for just a minute and a half is crucial to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. You want it to be slightly tender but still have a bit of bite.
• Use quality prosciutto: The quality of your prosciutto will greatly impact the flavor of the bundles. Look for thinly sliced prosciutto from a reputable deli.
• Make-ahead tip: You can assemble the bundles ahead of time (up to a few hours) and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if they are cold.
• Troubleshooting soggy bottoms: If you find the bottoms of the bundles are getting soggy, try placing them on a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will allow for better air circulation.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Cheese, Prosciutto, and Asparagus Crusted Bundles immediately after baking for the best flavor and texture. They are delicious as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light meal. They pair well with a simple green salad or a creamy dipping sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make the crust soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	115.9 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	77 g	67%
Total Fat	8.6 g	13%
Saturated Fat	5.3 g	26%
Cholesterol	22.9 mg	7%
Sodium	354.9 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	4.6 g	1%
Dietary Fiber	1.5 g	6%
Sugars	1 g	N/A
Protein	6.3 g	12%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Substitute the prosciutto with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough or puff pastry.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of herb cheese, such as garlic and herb, or try a creamy goat cheese. You could also use a sprinkle of feta cheese along with the Parmesan.
• Seasonal Asparagus: While green asparagus is most common, try using purple or white asparagus when they are in season for a more colorful presentation.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use regular puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?
A: Yes, you can substitute puff pastry. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as puff pastry may require a slightly longer baking time to achieve a golden-brown color.

Q: Can I freeze these bundles?
A: It’s best to bake the bundles fresh. Freezing can alter the texture of the dough and make it soggy upon thawing and reheating.

Q: What if I can’t find herb cheese spread?
A: You can easily make your own herb cheese spread by mixing cream cheese with your favorite herbs, such as chives, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the bundles?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as thinly sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini, along with the asparagus.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time and bake them later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the bundles and keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Add a couple of minutes to the baking time to ensure they are cooked through.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that this recipe for Cheese, Prosciutto, and Asparagus Crusted Bundles is a winner! It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet elegant enough for a special occasion. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. I encourage you to give it a try and let me know what you think. Pair these bundles with a crisp glass of white wine for a truly delightful experience. Happy cooking!