This dish will take less than 10 minutes to make, yet still looks and tastes like a treat. Serve slightly warm or cold and firm.

Makes 18

You will need:

For the spears:

● 18 asparagus spears
● 6 slices Parma ham
● 3tbsp olive oil

For the dressing:

● 9 asparagus spears, chopped
● 3tbsp white-wine vinegar
● 6 lemons

1. Simmer the asparagus spears for 5 minutes in boiling water. Using kitchen scissors, cut each slice of Parma ham into three. 
2. Using a draining spoon, carefully remove the spears from the water. Wrap one piece of ham around each spear. 
3. Heat the oil in a frying pan. Add the wraps and fry for one minuteon each side. Remove from the pan and arrange on a serving plate. 
4. Make the dressing: add the chopped asparagus and vinegar and the juice of 2 lemons to the pan and fry for 2 minutes. Remove from the pan and serve with the wraps. Slice the remaining lemons for garnish.

Photograph: Getty Images