Asparagus, mozzarella and prosciutto parcels

This is a sophisticated starter or supper dish.  It has a classic combination of fresh asparagus, creamy mozzarella and tangy prosciutto.  It is very stylish.

Smaller versions of the dish make perfect canapés.

Preparation Time: 10 Mins

Cooking Time: 7 Mins

Total Time: 20 Mins

Ingredients

For 4 servings…

16 spears          Asparagus

                     Salt          

1 cheese           Mozzarella  - sliced into 4 slices

12 slices           Parma ham

                     Olive oil    

1 tbs               Vinegar  - red wine   

1 bunch            Basil  - shredded      

To serve

                     Salad leaves            

Method

Blanch the asparagus in boiling salt water for 2 minutes then refresh under cold water.

Cut each mozzarella slice in half and sit both pieces on top of 2 spears of asparagus.  Top with 2 more spears then wrap the asparagus in prosciutto so the mozzarella is enclosed.

Heat a little olive oil in a pan, then carefully fry the parcels until the prosciutto has crisped and the mozzarella oozes.

Whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil and the vinegar and add the basil.

Serve each parcel with salad leaves and a little dressing drizzled over.

Wine recommendations

          An aromatic white wine.

  Conventional

           Muscat d'Alsace

  Interesting

           Pinot Blanc

           Sancerre

           Santenay blanc

           Sylvaner