Puff Pastry Wrapped Asparagus Prosciutto Cannoli Appetizers

These Puff Pastry Wrapped Asparagus Prosciutto Cannoli are little packages of early asparagus spear, salty prosciutto, and buttery pastry for the best appetizers ever! These are perfect in the spring when asparagus is in season but you can make them any time of the year if you can find quality asparagus where you live.

To make these asparagus cannoli, you first cook the asparagus in a pot of boiling water. Then, you roll the asparagus with the cheese and ham before wrapping them with the puff pastry. Finally, they get coated in egg wash and sesame seeds before being baked in the oven. The results are golden puff pastry cannoli with the contrasting flavors of asparagus and briny cheese and prosciutto.

What are Asparagus Cannoli?

When you think of cannoli, you might think of the sweet version that includes a fried pastry filled with a sweet ricotta filling. The term cannoli refers to little tubes of pastry that includes a delicious filling. This is a savory version made with puff pastry, asparagus, cheese, and ham, which can be served as a snack or appetizer with your favorite beverage.

Pro Tips

• Keep the puff pastry cold in the refrigerator until you are ready to use it in this recipe. This will ensure the puff pastry is easy to handle and that it will puff up sufficiently when baked in the oven.
• Don’t overcook the asparagus when you blanch it on the stove. You just want to cook it for a few minutes until it is bright green. It will cook the rest of the way in the oven.
• Brush the pastries evenly with egg wash to ensure they brown easily.
• Use a measuring tape to ensure the puff pastry is cut into even-sized squares.
• Be sure to remove the woody ends of the asparagus before using it in this recipe.

What to Serve with Asparagus Cannoli?

These asparagus cannoli can be served with your favorite drink such as sparkling wine, fizzy water, or lemon water.

Can I Replace the Asparagus?

Yes, if asparagus is out of season where you live, you could substitute it with green beans for a similar look as when you use asparagus.

Alternatively, feel free to stuff the puff pastry with other vegetables such as sauteed spinach or Swiss chard.

What Type of Cheese Should I Use? 

You can use any type of sliced cheese you prefer, but white cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or Swiss cheese are particularly delicious. Using sliced cheese rather than shredded means that you can wrap it with the prosciutto easily.

Can I Use Filo Pastry Instead of Puff Pastry?

Due to the delicate nature of filo pastry, it isn’t recommended as a replacement for puff pastry. Since these asparagus cannoli are quite hearty and have a lot of filling, they need a sturdier pastry that will hold all of that filling without falling apart.

How to Store Asparagus Cannoli

These asparagus cannoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a few days. It is best to consume them within 3 days for optimal freshness. When you are ready to serve them, simply rewarm them in the oven to ensure they are heated throughout and that the pastry becomes crisp again.

How to Make Asparagus Cannoli

Step 1: Cook the asparagus in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make 8 bundles of asparagus, cheese, and prosciutto by rolling two asparagus spears in 1 slice of prosciutto and 1 slice of cheese.

Step 3: Cut the puff pastry into 8 squares. Place 1 bundle of asparagus on each square of pastry on a diagonal and wrap the puff pastry around the asparagus. Arrange them on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Brush the pastries with egg wash and sprinkle them with sesame seeds. Bake them in a 200 C (400 F) oven for 20 minutes.

Step 5: Serve the asparagus cannoli immediately.