Recipe: Asparagus Rolantina

Asparagus Rolantina

1 pound asparagus spears, tough end removed
4 to 6 slices Swiss or Provolone cheese
4 to 6 slices prosciutto or smoked turkey breast
ground black pepper
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Lower asparagus into the water, and cook for 1 minute, 2 minutes if the spears are thick.

Lay one slice of meat on a plate. Layer a slice of cheese on top of the slice of meat. Place 3 to 4 asparagus spears at one end of the cheese and meat, and sprinkle with black pepper to taste. Roll the cheese and meat up over the asparagus, and secure with a toothpick. Place asparagus rolls in a casserole dish. Once all of the asparagus rolls have been arranged in the casserole dish, pour melted butter over the entire dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crumb mixture has formed a crust over the asparagus rolls.

Makes 4 servings