Description

Use your leftover ham to prepare these yummy, savory scones. Asparagus and ham are a wonderful combination and are great for brunch, as a snack or as a light lunch. They're simple to make and quick to mix and bake.

Ingredients

• 2 c. all-purpose flour
• 2 t. baking powder
• 1/2 t. salt
• 1/2 t. paprika (do not omit)
• 1/4 t. black pepper
• 4 T. frozen butter
• 12 spears asparagus, grilled, roasted, or steamed
• 1/2 c. diced cooked ham, leftover is fine
• 3/4 c. buttermilk, plus 1 T., divided
• grated cheese for more flavor, optional

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, paprika, and pepper. Using a medium-size grater, grate frozen butter into the flour mixture. Stir to incorporate butter, but only so that butter is well-distributed throughout; the butter should stay in pieces and not blended in. Make sure that you don’t overwork the dough when adding ingredients, because that can turn the scones from tender to tough and chewy!
3. Cut off tips of asparagus spears; set aside. Chop remaining asparagus; add to dough with ham. Mix in 3/4 c. buttermilk until a cohesive dough forms, which is sticky to the touch.