Spring Guide: Asparagus 101
Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that's easy to prepare and fun to eat. Its taste is a reminder of springtime-fresh, clean, and light. That's why it's such a good accompaniment to any meat or pasta dish. On its own, steamed asparagus can be eaten chilled, warm, or hot, with or without a sauce on the side.
How to Buy
Whether you're buying thick, thin, or medium asparagus, choose firm, bright-green stalks with tight tips and moist ends. The best season for fresh asparagus is February through June.
How to Use
Because asparagus is grown in sandy soil, you should wash the spears and remove any grit from the tips. If the stems are thick, use a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer.
How to Store
Asparagus is best eaten fresh; if that's not possible, store it in the refrigerator standing upright in a container of water, like you would keep flowers, but covered in a plastic bag.
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