PANCETTA WRAPPED ASPARAGUS Recipe

8

Ingredients

8 SERVINGS
1 lb medium asparagus (1/2 inch thick; 12 to 15)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
12 to 15 thin slices pancetta (1/4 lb)
EQUIPMENT: 4 (12-inch) wooden skewers, soaked in water 30 minutes

Preparation

Step 1

Prepare a grill for direct-heat cooking over medium-hot charcoal (medium-high heat for gas)

Trim asparagus to 6 inches long, then toss with oil and 1/4 tsp pepper in a small dish.

Wrap middle of each asparagus with 1 slice of pancetta. Thread 3 or 4 wrapped asparagus 1/2 inch apart onto each skewer.

Oil grill rack, then grill asparagus, uncovered, turning, until pancetta is golden brown in spots and asparagus is crisp-tender, about 6 minutes.

COOKS NOTES:

If you aren't able to grill outdoors, asparagus can be broiled about 3 inches from heat, turning, about 5 minutes.

Asparagus can be wrapped in pancetta 1 day ahead and chilled.