Roast Asparagus

Serves 2:

• ½lb asparagus, or about 12 medium spears
• 2 thick slices cured ham such as parma ham
• 2oz unsalted butter
• 2 tbl grated parmesan cheese

Prepare the asparagus, removing the woody ends
Chop up the butter very small and place half on the bottom of an ovenproof dish large enough to take the asparagus
Roll up the cured ham and cut into small strips, scatter over the butter
If any of the asparagus is on the thick side slice through the lower half so that it will cook more evenly
Place the asparagus on top of the strips of ham
Sprinkle over the parmesan cheese and the rest of the butter
Cook for 20-25 minutes at 200C, 170C Fan or Mk6, basting the spears with the butter once or twice.

If served with plenty of crusty bread, a salad and maybe a poached egg, this makes a good lunch or light supper.
Smaller portions also make an interesting starter.