Asparagus, Goat’s Cheese + Prosciutto with Rocket Pesto

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
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4 bunches asparagus, woodie ends removed
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100g prosciutto
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½ cup olive oil
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1 cup basil leaves
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1 ½ cups rocket
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½ cup roasted hazelnuts
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1 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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1 small garlic clove
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½ lemon, juiced
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¼ tsp salt
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¼ tsp pepper
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1 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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200g goat’s cheese Meredith
Method:
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Bring a medium size pot with salted water to the boil. Add the asparagus, simmer for 1-2 minutes, until vibrant green and al dente. Place into a bowl with icy cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain and pat dry.
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Place a large frying pan with 1 tsp of olive oil over medium-high heat, add the prosciutto and cook for 30 seconds on each side until golden and crispy. Set aside on top of paper towels to cool.
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Place the frying pan back over medium heat. Drizzle with a little oil, then add ¼ cup of the hazelnuts, the butter and maple syrup. Cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes, until browned and sticky. Place on a plate to cool. Once cool roughly chop them with a knife and set aside.
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To make the Rocket Pesto: In a blender, add the remaining olive oil, basil, rocket, remaining hazelnuts, the lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper. Blitz until combined.
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Spread the Rocket Pesto onto a serving plate. Toss the asparagus with the remaining pesto and place on the plate. Crumble over the crispy prosciutto, goat’s cheese and caramelised hazelnuts.