H-E-B
Fresh Green Asparagus Spears
What it is
This is a bunch of fresh green asparagus. Asparagus is a spring vegetable known for its slender stalks and slightly grassy flavor. It grows from an underground stem called a rhizome. The spears can vary in thickness, with thicker stalks often being more tender. This vegetable is a popular choice for its versatility and distinct taste in various dishes. It is a whole, unprocessed food.
How people cook with it
Green asparagus is a wonderful addition to many meals. It can be prepared in a variety of ways to suit different tastes and cooking styles.
- Steamed as a side dish
- Roasted with olive oil
- Added to pasta and stir-fries
- Blended into soups
To prepare asparagus, begin by washing the spears under cool water. Snap off the woody ends; they will naturally break at the point where the tender stalk meets the tough base. You can then cook them by steaming, boiling, roasting, or grilling. For roasting, toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and cook in a hot oven until tender-crisp. Steaming is a quick method that preserves the vegetable's bright green color and delicate flavor. It also works well in sautés and as a topping for pizzas.
How it differs from similar foods
Green asparagus differs from white asparagus in its growing method and flavor. Green asparagus is grown exposed to sunlight, which allows it to develop chlorophyll and a slightly more robust, grassy taste. White asparagus is grown in darkness, resulting in a paler color and a more delicate, subtle flavor profile.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike appreciate green asparagus for its culinary flexibility.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of your asparagus fresh, trim the ends and stand the stalks upright in a glass or jar with about an inch of water, like a bouquet. Cover loosely with a plastic bag and refrigerate. This method helps maintain their crispness for several days.