Are you looking for an elegant and tasty appetizer that can impress your guests? Try our chicken and asparagus rolls, a light yet flavorful dish, perfect for starting off a special evening. This recipe combines the tenderness of chicken with crunchy asparagus, all accompanied by a fresh yogurt sauce.
Preparation Time
Preparration: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients for 4 people
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 16 fresh asparagus spears
- 100g of thinly sliced prosciutto
- 200g of Greek yogurt
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 clove of garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- Chives for garnish
Method
- Asparagus Preparation: Clean the asparagus by removing the woodier part of the stem. Boil them in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then immediately plunge them into ice water to maintain a bright color and crisp texture. Drain and dry them.
- Chicken Preparation: Flatten the chicken breasts with a meat mallet until they are evenly thin. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Place 4 asparagus spears on each chicken breast and roll the chicken around the asparagus, securing everything with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Cooking: Wrap each roll with one or two slices of prosciutto, then brown the rolls in a skillet with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until evenly golden.
- Sauce Preparation: In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with the lemon juice and zest, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a finely chopped garlic clove. Let the sauce rest in the refrigerator while the rolls are cooking.
- Finishing and Plating: Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine from the rolls and slice them into about 2 cm thick pieces. Arrange the slices on a serving plate. Drizzle some yogurt sauce over each slice or beside the rolls, and garnish with chopped chives.
Dish History
Chicken rolls are a staple in modern European and international cuisine, often enhanced by variations that include different fillings and toppings. Asparagus, appreciated for their delicacy and lightness, have been a symbol of luxury since ancient times, particularly popular in France and Italy during the Renaissance. The combination with chicken creates a balanced and tasty dish, perfect for high-end home cooking.
Storage Tips
Chicken and asparagus rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days if well covered or in an airtight container. For best results, reheat covered in an oven or microwave to prevent drying out. It is not recommended to freeze the dish after cooking as the asparagus may become mushy and watery.
Wine Pairings
- Alcoholic: A fresh, fruity Chardonnay with notes of butter and vanilla beautifully complements the richness of the yogurt sauce and the tenderness of the chicken. For a red option, a light Pinot Noir can be an elegant choice that pairs well with the sweetness of the asparagus.
- Non-alcoholic: Opt for a non-alcoholic white wine or a non-alcoholic Chardonnay, which maintains freshness and acidity, mimicking the profile of traditional wine without the alcohol.
Beer Pairings
- Alcoholic: A light, sparkling Pilsner or a delicate Blonde Ale can balance the flavor of the rolls without overpowering them.
- Non-alcoholic: A clear non-alcoholic beer, such as a lager or non-alcoholic pilsner, offering herbaceous notes without the intense bitterness, can refresh the palate after each bite.
Cocktails Pairings
- Alcoholic: A light cocktail like a Gin Tonic or an Aperol Spritz adds a touch of freshness and liveliness that complements the lightness of the rolls.
- Non-alcoholic: A Virgin Mary, rich and spicy, or a cocktail based on ginger beer and lime can offer a complexity of flavors that pairs well with the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors of the chicken and asparagus.
These chicken and asparagus rolls are an ideal appetizer that combines delicate flavors and contrasting textures, ensuring a perfect start to any occasion. Serve them with a glass of fresh white wine to further enhance the flavors.
Enjoy your meal and have fun with your guests! Buon Appetito!
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