Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy, and easy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! These Asparagus Roll Ups are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. They're packed with flavor, visually appealing, and surprisingly simple to make. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed for 4 servings and uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous weeknight meal.
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 8 slices of your favorite deli ham or turkey (or prosciutto for a gourmet twist!)
- 8 slices of provolone cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get cooking! This recipe is incredibly straightforward; even beginners will feel confident whipping up these delicious roll-ups.
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Prep the Asparagus: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and trim the asparagus, removing any tough ends. You want spears that are tender yet hold their shape well.
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Toss with Flavor: In a bowl, toss the asparagus with olive oil, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Ensure the asparagus is evenly coated.
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Roast the Asparagus: Spread the seasoned asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly browned. Don't overcrowd the pan; you might need to work in batches for even cooking.
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Assemble the Roll Ups: Once the asparagus is cooked, let it cool slightly. Lay out a slice of ham or turkey, top with a slice of provolone cheese, and place 1-2 asparagus spears on top of the cheese.
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Roll and Bake (Optional): Carefully roll up the ham or turkey and cheese around the asparagus. For an extra crispy finish, you can place the rolled-up asparagus on a baking sheet and bake for another 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This step is optional but adds a nice touch.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delicious asparagus roll-ups immediately. They are a delightful appetizer or a light yet satisfying main course.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Asparagus Roll Ups:
- Asparagus Thickness: Choose asparagus spears of similar thickness for even cooking. Thicker spears might require an extra couple of minutes in the oven.
- Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet when roasting the asparagus. This ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar would be delicious alternatives.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients to your roll-ups, such as sun-dried tomatoes or pesto.
Variations:
- Bacon Roll Ups: Replace the ham or turkey with bacon for a smoky, savory twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use large mushroom caps instead.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the asparagus for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-8g
These Asparagus Roll Ups are a simple, healthy, and delicious meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!