We had some leftover pastry and I decided to get a little creative with these delicious air fryer asparagus wraps. It’s amazing how, once you start experimenting with ingredients you can avoid food waste. Not only is this better for the planet, but it’s also a boost to your bank balance. Why spend good money on food that will simply be thrown out because it was leftover from a previous meal or recipe? Many of my dishes come about from finding innovative ways to use up leftover ingredients that would otherwise go to waste. These air fryer asparagus wraps were born from just that idea. Avoiding throwing out the leftover pastry and turning it into a scrumptious light lunch.
Being creative in the kitchen not only helps reduce waste but also opens up the door to discovering new and exciting flavour combinations. It encourages a sense of culinary adventure. Where you push yourself to try different ingredients and techniques that you might not have considered before. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about transforming what could have been discarded into a delicious, satisfying meal. It’s like taking a second chance on food and giving it a new life.
These air fryer asparagus wraps are a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet. Especially if you have picky eaters at home. The flaky pastry acts as a perfect base, making vegetables like asparagus more appealing. You can even sneak in a variety of other veggies or fruits, such as sliced apples or pears, for a sweet and savoury option that will intrigue the taste buds. So, next time you have leftover pastry, get creative and see what delicious meals you can whip up!
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 10 minutes
MAKES 3 wraps
KIT you will need an air fryer.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Asparagus Wraps
1 sheet of pre-rolled puff pastry
2 tomatoes, sliced
Two tablespoons of green pesto
2 tablespoons of grated parmesan
A bunch of fresh asparagus
Fresh green salad leaves
1 egg, beaten
Method
All I did to start was cut three equal-sized squares from a sheet of puff pastry – this recipe is super simple but looks and tastes like you’ve spent far more time in the kitchen. I then spread a generous layer of green pesto across each square, stopping just short of the edges. The pesto gives the pastry a lovely herby kick and acts as the perfect base. I sprinkled a little grated parmesan over the top for that extra savoury depth.
Next, I placed a few spears of fresh asparagus on each pastry square, laying them across the pesto. I also added a couple of halved cherry tomatoes for a burst of juicy sweetness and colour. The combination of flavours really works together – crisp pastry, nutty pesto, tender asparagus, and sweet tomato.
After that, I beat an egg and brushed the edges of the pastry squares, which helps everything stick together and gives a beautiful golden finish once baked. I then folded two opposite corners of each square into the centre, creating a sort of open wrap that cradles the veggies in the middle.
I gently placed the pastry parcels into my air fryer drawer, lined with a piece of greaseproof paper, and cooked them on 180°C for around 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the pastry has puffed up beautifully and turned a lovely golden colour.
I served my air fryer asparagus wraps with a fresh green salad for a light, tasty lunch. These also make fantastic appetisers – just one is enough to whet the appetite without spoiling the main course.
Don’t worry if you’re missing some ingredients – this recipe is super flexible. Try swapping in peppers, courgettes, mushrooms, or even spinach. Get creative and let your fridge inspire you!
Tips for Air Fryer Asparagus Wraps
1. Choose Fresh, Thin Asparagus
For the best results, pick fresh, slender asparagus spears. Thicker stalks can take longer to cook and may not wrap as easily. Look for firm, bright green stalks with tightly closed tips.
2. Trim the Ends
Always trim the woody ends off the asparagus before wrapping. This ensures tenderness and a better eating experience.
3. Use Light, Flexible Wraps
Phyllo pastry, spring roll wrappers, or even thin tortilla wraps work well. Light wraps crisp up nicely in the air fryer and complement the delicate asparagus flavor.
4. Add a Flavourful Filling
Spread a thin layer of cream cheese, herbed goat cheese, or garlic butter on your wrap before adding asparagus. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan or crumbled feta enhances taste and texture.
5. Season Well
Season the asparagus lightly with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before wrapping. You can also add garlic powder, lemon zest, or smoked paprika for extra zing.
6. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Arrange your asparagus wraps in a single layer with space between them. Overcrowding causes uneven cooking and soggy spots.
7. Preheat the Air Fryer
Pre heating to 180°C (350°F) for a couple of minutes helps the wraps crisp quickly and evenly.
8. Cook Time and Checking
Cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on the colour as they should be golden and crispy but not burnt.
9. Serve Immediately
Air fryer asparagus wraps are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve with a tangy dip like aioli, ranch, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh finish.
These wraps make a quick, healthy snack or impressive appetizer with minimal fuss and maximum flavour!
Similar recipes
So if you love air fryer asparagus wraps you will like my air fryer corn fritters or the air fryer carrot fritters recipe.
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