Many of the appetizers that I’ve featured throughout January have been geared toward casual gatherings.  I figured it was time to share something a bit more sophisticated – of course, this doesn’t mean labor intensive!  These bites make an irresistible nibble with aperitifs or on their own as a more formal appetizer.  I like that you can prepare everything ahead of time, then simply pop them in the oven when your guests arrive.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• grated zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tablespoon snipped fresh chives
• 8 asparagus tips
• 8 wafer-thin slices prosciutto, cut into strips
• olive oil, for drizzling
• ground black pepper

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.  Combine the mayonnaise, lemon zest, juice and chives in a serving dish.  Cover and place in the refrigerator.

Wrap each asparagus tip in a strip of prosciutto, arrange on a baking sheet and drizzle with the oil.  Sprinkle with a little black pepper and roast for 6 to 7 minutes, until tender.

Transfer the prosciutto-wrapped asparagus to a platter and serve with the lemon mayo.

original recipe found here