Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce – A Low-Carb Gourmet Recipe

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce: A Keto Delight

Welcome to a culinary experience that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also fit seamlessly into your keto lifestyle. Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce is a dish that marries the elegance of European cuisine with the health-conscious principles of a ketogenic diet. Imagine tender asparagus spears, wrapped in a salty hug of prosciutto, all topped off with a creamy, buttery hollandaise sauce that’s to die for. This recipe isn’t just about indulging in great taste; it’s about doing so in a way that aligns with your low-carb, high-fat dietary goals. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a luxurious night in, this dish is sure to impress anyone looking for a delicious keto-friendly option.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

The Story Behind This Keto Gem

The origins of this dish are as rich as its flavors. Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus has long been a staple in European cuisine, often served as an appetizer in Italian trattorias and French bistros alike. The addition of hollandaise sauce, a French classic, elevates the dish to new heights, adding a luxurious creaminess that complements the saltiness of the prosciutto beautifully.

When it comes to maintaining a ketogenic diet, finding recipes that satisfy the craving for gourmet food while keeping carbs low can be a challenge. This is where our Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce shines. Asparagus, a nutrient-dense vegetable, is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for keto followers. Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham, adds a punch of flavor without any carbs, and the hollandaise sauce, rich in butter and eggs, fits perfectly within the high-fat requirement of a keto diet.

Not only is this recipe keto-friendly, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It can serve as a sophisticated appetizer, a side dish to a main course, or even as a standalone meal with a few extra spears. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to make this dish a staple in your keto recipe repertoire.

Preparing Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

Mastering the Method

Creating this dish is as much about technique as it is about the quality of ingredients. Let’s start with the asparagus. Selecting the right spears is crucial; they should be fresh and firm, with a vibrant green color. When wrapping them in prosciutto, ensure that the meat adheres snugly to the vegetable without tearing. This not only ensures even cooking but also a beautiful presentation.

Roasting the asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and tends to mellow out its grassy notes, while the prosciutto crisps up, adding a delightful contrast in textures. It’s essential to keep an eye on the oven, as the line between perfectly crisp and overdone is a fine one. You’re aiming for tender-crisp asparagus and prosciutto that’s just crunchy enough without being brittle.

The hollandaise sauce is where your culinary skills truly come into play. The key is to whisk vigorously and continuously, to create an emulsion that’s silky and light. Patience is your friend here, as adding the butter too quickly can cause the sauce to split. If you find the sauce thickening too much, a tablespoon of warm water can be your saving grace, bringing it back to the perfect consistency.

Once plated, the dish comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to impress. The final drizzle of hollandaise is not just a sauce; it’s the crowning glory that brings the entire dish to life.

Finished Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce

Variations to Keep It Fresh

Smoked Prosciutto Asparagus Bundles

For those who enjoy a hint of smokiness, swapping out the regular prosciutto for its smoked counterpart can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Grilled Asparagus Delight

If you’re in the mood for something with a charred flavor, grilling the asparagus instead of roasting it can provide a delightful twist. Just be sure to keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Herbed Hollandaise Indulgence

Infusing the hollandaise sauce with fresh herbs like dill or tarragon can offer a fresh, aromatic take on the classic sauce.

Substitutions for Every Keto Kitchen

While the original recipe is designed to fit within a keto diet, there are always reasons you might need to substitute an ingredient, whether it’s due to dietary restrictions, allergies, or simply personal preference.

Bacon for Prosciutto: If prosciutto is not available, thin slices of bacon can be a suitable substitute, providing a similar salty, meaty component to the dish.

Clarified Butter for Hollandaise: For those who are sensitive to dairy, using clarified butter (ghee) in the hollandaise sauce can be a great alternative.

Alternative Seasonings: If cayenne pepper is too spicy for your palate, consider using paprika for a milder heat that still adds a pop of color and flavor.

Can the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce be incorporated into a keto diet?

Yes, the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce can be incorporated into a keto diet. It’s a low-carb, high-fat dish that fits well within the ketogenic guidelines. To complement this meal, you can also try out the best keto granola recipe for a satisfying and healthy dessert option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
A: Hollandaise sauce is best served fresh, but if you need to make it ahead, store it in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator and reheat gently to avoid separation.

Q: How can I prevent the asparagus from becoming too soft?
A: Roast the asparagus until it’s just tender-crisp. Start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Q: What can I do if my hollandaise sauce splits?
A: If your sauce begins to separate, whisk in a few drops of warm water until it comes back together. Remember to add the butter slowly and whisk continuously.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: The prosciutto-wrapped asparagus can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. However, the hollandaise sauce should be made just before serving for the best results.

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus for this recipe?
A: Fresh asparagus is recommended for optimal flavor and texture, but if you only have frozen, make sure to thaw and pat it dry before wrapping it with prosciutto.


## Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus with Hollandaise Sauce


A luxurious twist on a classic side dish, this recipe features crisp-tender asparagus spears enveloped in savory prosciutto, all drizzled with a rich, buttery hollandaise sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a gourmet keto-friendly meal.


**Servings:** 4


**Prep Time:** 15 minutes


**Cook Time:** 15 minutes


**Cuisine:** European


**Category:** Appetizer


**Ingredients:**

For the Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus:
– 16 asparagus spears, trimmed (approx. 1 pound / 450g)
– 8 thin slices of prosciutto (approx. 4 ounces / 113g)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Hollandaise Sauce:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (4 ounces / 113g)
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt to taste


**Method:**

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each asparagus spear with half a slice of prosciutto, starting from the bottom and spiraling up to just below the tip.
3. Place the wrapped spears on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender and the prosciutto is crisp.
5. While the asparagus cooks, prepare the hollandaise sauce: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and lemon juice until light and frothy.
6. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler), making sure the bottom does not touch the water, and continue to whisk rapidly. Be careful not to let the eggs get too hot or they will scramble.
7. Slowly drizzle in the melted butter, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and doubles in volume.
8. Remove from heat, whisk in cayenne pepper, and add salt to taste. Keep the sauce warm until the asparagus is ready.
9. To serve, arrange the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus on a platter and drizzle with the hollandaise sauce.


**Calories:** 290 per serving


**Carbohydrates:** 4g


**Net Carbs:** 2g


**Fiber:** 2g


**Fat:** 26g


**Protein:** 10g


**Equipment Used:**
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Heatproof bowl
– Whisk
– Double boiler or pot with simmering water


**Other Notes:**
– For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked prosciutto.
– If the hollandaise sauce begins to thicken too much before serving, whisk in a tablespoon of warm water to loosen it.
– The asparagus can also be grilled for an added charred flavor, just be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.
– Keep leftover hollandaise sauce in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator and use within one day; reheat gently to avoid separation.