Helpful tips for choosing asparagus, plus simple storage solutions that will keep your produce fresh for as long as possible.
Asparagus is one of my favorite spring vegetables. It’s so versatile and easy to prepare, yet somehow always gives the impression of being fancy.
Whether you plan to roast, grill, or pickle your asparagus, or add it to soups or salads, these tips will help you understand what to look for when buying asparagus, and how to keep it fresh as long as possible.
What should I look for when choosing asparagus?
Appearance: Fresh asparagus stalks are firm, straight and smooth. Look for stalks that have a rich green color with a small amount of white at the bottom.
Asparagus stalks should be firm and straight, not limp. The asparagus tips should be tightly closed and compact–like a paintbrush–with purple highlights. Make sure the tips are not soft or mushy.
Size: It’s not always true that thinner asparagus is more tender and flavorful than thicker asparagus. As long as asparagus is cooked properly, any size or thickness should taste good.
How should I store asparagus?
The best way to keep asparagus fresh is to trim about a half-inch from the ends of the asparagus, then stand the stalks upright in a jar or glass with about an inch of cold water in the bottom. Cover with a plastic bag and keep in the refrigerator for three to four days.
The goal is to keep the stems moist without getting the rest of the asparagus wet. Do not wash asparagus before storing.
Be sure to try these delicious recipes featuring asparagus.
More Delicious Asparagus Recipes
Raw Asparagus Salad
Thin shavings of fresh asparagus are tossed with olive oil, lemon juice and Parmesan cheese in this delicious, healthy salad that's perfect for spring.
Maple Balsamic Roasted Asparagus with Cranberries and Feta
Fresh asparagus is tossed with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup, roasted until crisp-tender, then topped with feta cheese, dried cranberries and pumpkin seeds.
Sweet and Spicy Pork and Asparagus
Ground pork and fresh asparagus are sauteed in a sweet and spicy Asian sauce, then served over rice in this unique and delicious dish.
Roasted Asparagus with Garlic Balsamic Drizzle
Fresh asparagus is oven roasted then drizzled in a balsamic vinegar reduction in this easy but elegant vegetable side dish.
Hello! I’m Danelle. Thanks for visiting.
Uptown foodie meets real life at Let’s Dish, where I share all my favorite recipes. Making meal time easy, but doing it in style!
