Asparagus

PURCHASE

When buying asparagus, they should have a rich green color and be firm to the touch. Their stalks should not be limp or wilted and the tips should be closed.

KEEP

To store fresh asparagus, it is best to trim the bottoms and wrap the cut end in a wet paper towel. After wrapping, they should be placed in a plastic bag and kept in the vegetable crisper for up to four days.

PREPARE

Asparagus should only be washed when it is ready to be used as the tips should be kept dry to prolong shelf life. Color loss or wilting may indicate that the asparagus is no longer good.

RECIPE

Try this recipe from justapinch.com when preparing your asparagus. 

1 bunch of asparagus, fresh

1 large lemon

1 tsp kosher salt

Add asparagus to a pan of boiling water. Cook 3 minutes. Remove asparagus from boiling water and put into an ice bath to stop cooking.

Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon over asparagus and sprinkle with salt. You may also garnish with lemon peel if desired.

Read more about this justapinch.com asparagus preparation recipe and view more recipes and information at USDA's Seasonal Produce Guide - asparagus.