Espárragos Con Jamón Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Espárragos Con Jamón Ingredients

Espárragos Con Jamón Instructions

  1. Lay the white asparagus on a cutting board and trim about 1 inch from the woody ends. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the outer layer from just below the tip to the base, ensuring the stalks are smooth and tender.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the trimmed and peeled asparagus and blanch for 3-4 minutes, until just tender but still bright. Immediately transfer the asparagus to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Lay out the slices of jamón serrano on a clean surface. Wrap each asparagus spear tightly with a slice of jamón, starting just below the tip and spiraling down to cover most of the stalk.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and garlic, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  5. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the wrapped asparagus spears to the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side, turning gently, until the jamón is crisp and golden. Remove the asparagus to a plate and keep warm.
  6. Deglaze the skillet with the dry fino sherry, scraping up any browned bits. Let the sherry reduce by half, then stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, smoked paprika, black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt. Whisk in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to emulsify the sauce.
  7. Arrange the jamón-wrapped asparagus on a serving platter. Spoon the warm sherry-lemon sauce over the top.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley, toasted Marcona almonds, and shavings of Manchego cheese. Sprinkle with additional flaky sea salt to taste and serve immediately.

Estimated Calories: 150, Servings: 4

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Espárragos Con Jamón History

The cultural origins of Espárragos Con Jamón are as rich and layered as a good telenovela plot twist. In Aragon, where the best asparagus is said to grow, this dish is a celebration of local pride and agricultural prowess. The combination of asparagus and ham is not just a delicious pairing, but a reflection of the region's love for simple, healthy, and easy recipes that make the most of what's in season. It is a great example of how food can bring people together, whether you are a farmer, a city dweller, or just someone who loves a quick snack that feels a little bit fancy.
Over time, the recipe for Espárragos Con Jamón has evolved faster than you can say "pass the jamón." What started as a humble way to use up extra asparagus and leftover ham has become a staple at both family tables and high-end restaurants. The best part is how adaptable it is-some folks like to add a drizzle of olive oil, while others go wild with a sprinkle of cheese. The evolution of this dish shows that even the most traditional recipes can keep up with the times, making it easy for anyone to whip up a fast, healthy, and delicious meal without breaking a sweat or the bank.
Regional adaptations of Espárragos Con Jamón are a testament to Spain's culinary creativity. In some areas, you might find the asparagus grilled for a smoky flavor, while in others, it is served cold for a quick and refreshing appetizer. The great thing about these regional twists is that they keep the recipe exciting and new, proving that even a classic can have a few surprises up its sleeve. Whether you are in Aragon or just pretending to be, you can always count on this dish to deliver a good time and a delicious bite, no matter how you choose to prepare it.

Espárragos Con Jamón Pairings

If you are looking for the best flavors to complement Espárragos Con Jamón, think about the magic of contrasts. The salty, savory notes of cured ham love to dance with something a little tangy or zesty. A quick squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of a good sherry vinegar can make the whole recipe sing like a Spanish opera. For a healthy twist, try a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, which add a delicious brightness and make the dish feel extra fancy without any extra effort. It is easy to get carried away, but remember, sometimes less is more-let those flavors shine!
Now, let us talk about sides, because every star needs a good supporting cast. A fast and easy side that works wonders is a simple tomato salad with a splash of olive oil and a pinch of flaky salt. If you are feeling adventurous, a quick potato tortilla is a great way to keep things hearty and traditional. For a healthy option, roasted red peppers or marinated artichokes are both delicious and keep the meal light. The best part? All these sides are easy to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying and less time cooking.
Of course, no Aragonese feast is complete without the right drink in hand. For a non-alcoholic option, a chilled sparkling water with a twist of orange is a good way to keep things refreshing and sophisticated. If you are in the mood for something a bit more festive, a glass of dry Spanish white wine is a great pairing-it is quick to pour and brings out the best in the ham and asparagus. For those who like to keep it classic, a light vermouth on the rocks is a delicious and easy choice that will have you feeling like you are at a tapas bar in Zaragoza. Cheers to good food, good company, and even better recipes!

About Espárragos Con Jamón Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic way to enjoy a classic Spanish appetizer, look no further than this Aragonese Espárragos Con Jamón recipe. This dish combines tender asparagus with savory ham, creating a delicious and simple treat that's perfect for any occasion. The easy preparation and quick cooking time make it a favorite for those who want a homemade snack or starter without spending hours in the kitchen.
Learning how to make this tasty recipe is straightforward, even for beginners. With just a few quality ingredients-fresh asparagus, thinly sliced ham, olive oil, and a pinch of salt-you can whip up a quick and satisfying plate. The key to the best results is using authentic Spanish ham and ensuring the asparagus is cooked just right for that perfect bite. Follow these tips for a flawless outcome: don't overcook the asparagus, and wrap the ham tightly for maximum flavor.
This Aragonese specialty is not only easy and quick to prepare, but it's also incredibly versatile. Serve it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as part of a tapas spread. The combination of flavors in this Espárragos Con Jamón recipe is both simple and delicious, making it a go-to for anyone seeking a homemade, authentic Spanish experience. Try this recipe today and discover just how tasty and perfect this classic dish can be!

Espárragos Con Jamón Story

The first time I made this dish, I was trying to impress my grandmother, who is notorious for her high culinary standards and her even higher eyebrow raises. She always claimed that the best way to judge a person's character was by their ability to follow a recipe without burning down the kitchen. I was determined to prove that I could whip up something delicious, healthy, and, most importantly, not set off the smoke alarm. To my surprise, she took one bite, nodded sagely, and declared, "Not bad, kid. You might just be a good cook after all." I nearly fainted from pride and relief.
A few months later, I found myself on a date with someone who claimed to be a "foodie," which I later learned was code for "will judge you for your choice of salad dressing." Wanting to keep things easy and stress free, I suggested we cook together. The dish was quick to prepare, which was a blessing because my date's attention span was about as long as a commercial break. As we laughed over our questionable chopping skills and swapped stories, I realized that sometimes the great moments in life are the ones that happen when you are not trying too hard. The meal turned out to be a hit, and so did the date.
Years later, I found myself sharing this same dish with a stranger at a potluck. We bonded over our mutual confusion about which fork to use and our shared love for anything that could be made fast and still taste amazing. By the end of the night, we had exchanged not only phone numbers but also a few family secrets and a promise to swap more recipes. It is funny how something as simple as a meal can turn a room full of strangers into friends, all because someone brought something that was both easy to make and impossible to forget.

Healthy Espárragos Con Jamón Tips

If you want to give your Espárragos Con Jamón recipe a health boost without sacrificing that authentic Aragonese flavor, start by choosing the best, freshest ingredients. Swap out traditional cured ham for a leaner, low-sodium version-your heart will thank you, and your taste buds won't even notice the difference! For the asparagus, go for organic if you can, and steam or roast them instead of frying. This easy, quick tweak keeps all the delicious, tasty goodness while cutting down on unnecessary fats. Who knew being healthy could be so simple and still result in the perfect homemade dish?
Now, let's talk about some health tips to make your Aragonese Espárragos Con Jamón recipe the best it can be. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil instead of butter for that authentic Mediterranean touch-your arteries will do a happy dance! If you're feeling extra adventurous, toss in a sprinkle of crushed nuts for added crunch and health benefits. Remember, the secret to a healthy, delicious, and easy recipe is all about balance and the right ingredients. So, next time you're wondering how to make this classic dish healthier, just remember: a few simple swaps can turn your tasty favorite into a health superstar-no magic wand required!