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Asparagus

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that is highly valued for its taste, nutritional content, and versatile culinary uses. Traditionally harvested in spring and early summer, asparagus is a rich source of vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins, along with minerals like iron, copper, and manganese. The tender spears are easily identified by their characteristic long, slender shape, and can range in color from bright green to deep purple. Asparagus can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from steamed and roasted to grilled and sautéed, making it a versatile addition to any home cook's repertoire. It pairs beautifully with side dishes, entrées, or as a standalone appetizer. Asparagus can be eaten fresh but is also easily preserved by blanching and freezing, allowing for year-round enjoyment.
#19
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
20
CAL / 100G
$0.19
AVG / OZ
asparagus
63%
CARBS
2%
FAT
35%
PROTEIN
Asparagus FAQ
Asparagus is a popular and nutritious vegetable often used in many dishes. However, cooking asparagus can be slightly tricky for newbies in the kitchen. The most common question tends to revolve around how to cook it properly without overcooking it or losing its nutritional value. Trimming the woody ends off the stalks is necessary, yet some people trim too much and waste the tender part of the asparagus. As for preparation, overcooking asparagus is a common mistake which can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. To get the most out of asparagus, consider grilling, steaming, or roasting it to preserve its beautiful green color and its nutritional value. A little-known trick is that it can also be eaten raw in salads. Peeling the skin off the lower portion of large asparagus can also make them more enjoyable to eat. Additionally, using a vegetable peeler to create asparagus ribbons is a unique way to elevate your dishes’ presentation. For those who are concerned about sustainability, the ‘woody’ ends that are normally discarded can be used to make asparagus soup or vegetable stock.
How to make asparagus taste better?
How do you cook asparagus without making it go soggy?
Can you eat the whole asparagus stalk?
Why do some people peel asparagus before cooking?
Can asparagus be eaten raw?
Do I need to wash asparagus before cooking?
Why is my asparagus so stringy?
Should I soak asparagus before cooking?
Can I cook asparagus ahead of time and reheat?
Can you freeze asparagus?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does asparagus expire?
Unopened, asparagus can last about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly. However, it's best to consume it within the first week for optimal freshness and flavor. Once opened or cut, the lifespan decreases to about 2-3 days in the refrigerator. If you have blanched and frozen your asparagus properly, it's generally good for up to 8-12 months in the freezer, though again, using it earlier will maintain better quality.
How do you tell if asparagus is bad?
You will know asparagus have gone bad when they become soft and limp, and the vibrant green color turns to a dull green. They may also emit a strong unpleasant smell. Mold growth is a sure sign that your asparagus has spoiled. If only a part of the bunch has gone bad, saving the rest is possible by immediately removing the spoiled parts.
Tips for storing asparagus to extend shelf life
• Keep the asparagus upright in your refrigerator. Store them in a large cup with an inch of water at the bottom, just like you would store fresh flowers! This can extend their freshness by several days. • If it's not possible to store asparagus in a cup of water, you can also wrap the bottom of the stalks in a damp paper towel, and then cover the whole bunch in a plastic bag before placing in your refrigerator crisper drawer. • It is best to store asparagus away from fruits like apples and bananas, as these produce ethylene gas that could hasten the aging process of the asparagus. • To freeze asparagus, wash and dry the stalks, snip off the tough ends, and blanch by boiling for 2 minutes and then immediately plunging into cold water. Dry again, and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a sealable freezer bag. This will allow you to enjoy asparagus all year round. • Always remember to practice FIFO (First In, First Out). Use the older asparagus first as you acquire new ones.
EXPIRES WITHIN
6 - 11
DAYS
Health Info
Macros
5g
CARBS
0g
FAT
2g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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