Lilli Is In Town (and other things of lesser importance)

Asparagus and Prosciutto Tea Sandwiches

Makes 18 sandwiches

54 medium asparagus spears
18 slices firm-textured bread
8 ounces whipped cream cheese, room temperature
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 pound prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
Honey mustard

Cut asparagus spears to fit bread slices.

In a large saucepan fitted with steamer insert, bring 1 inch of water to a boil and steam asparagus until just cooked, about 3 minutes.

Plunge asparagus into bowl of ice water. When chilled, remove and pat dry with paper towels.

Spread bread slices with thin layer of cream cheese, pepper generously and set aside.

Cut each prosciutto slice in half lengthwise, and spread with 1/4 teaspoon or more of mustard. Starting with tip, roll asparagus in prosciutto, spiraling downward as you go. Repeat with each spear.

Cover 9 bread slices with 6 wrapped spears each, then top with remaining slices. With a serrated knife, trim crusts. Cut each sandwich in half across spears. Cover with plastic wrap until ready to serve.