Are you ready to elevate your pasta game with a dish that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate? Dive into the vibrant world of Italian cuisine with our irresistible Fusilli Asparagus Crispy Prosciutto! This recipe combines the nutty flavors of al dente fusilli pasta with the fresh crunch of asparagus and the savory crunch of prosciutto, all brought together with a touch of garlic and olive oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this meal can be on your table in just 30 minutes! Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress everyone with your culinary skills!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz fusilli pasta
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 4 oz prosciutto, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. While water is heating, prepare your ingredients by washing and trimming asparagus, cutting into 1-inch diagonal pieces.
- Place prosciutto slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until crisp and golden. Remove and let cool, then break into small crispy pieces.
- Add fusilli pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Add asparagus pieces to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Transfer drained pasta to the skillet with asparagus. Toss gently to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a light sauce.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Plate the pasta and top with crispy prosciutto pieces.
- Finish by grating fresh Parmesan cheese over the top and serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously before adding the fusilli. This enhances the flavor of the pasta and ensures it cooks evenly. Aim for al dente texture for the best bite!
- Crispy Prosciutto: For the crispiest prosciutto, lay the slices flat on the baking sheet without overlapping. Keep an eye on them while baking to avoid burning, as they can go from perfectly crispy to overdone quickly.
- Asparagus Prep: When trimming asparagus, snap off the woody ends; they will naturally break where the tender part begins. This ensures you’re using only the best part of the vegetable.
- Pasta Water Magic: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water! This starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Cheese it Up: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly. For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness!
- Serving Suggestion: Serve this dish immediately after plating for the best experience. Pair it with a light salad and a glass of white wine for a complete Italian dining experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 35mg
