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Asparagus is a popular vegetable that can be included in a variety of delicious dishes. These stalky veggies are especially popular during the springtime when they are in season. Choosing quality asparagus can be a little tricky, but it is worth it to learn a few tips so you can make sure you get the best tasting asparagus possible.
Steps
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Look for asparagus spears that are firm to the touch. They should be straight and not bendable; if you try bending the spear, it should be brittle and "crack." Stalks should be firm but tender.
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Check the tips of the asparagus spears. For the main part, they should be closed tightly. A nice dark green or purple tinge on the tips is a good indication of quality. If the tips are yellowish or dried out, the asparagus is too old. [1] X Research sourceAdvertisement
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Avoid blemished, mottled, or wilting asparagus. If you do find asparagus like this on special and you're prepared to make soup, then grab a bargain. Asparagus with flowers is long past its prime, so avoid that at all costs. [2] X Research source
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Look at the ends of the asparagus stalks. Your asparagus stalks should be moist and plump. If the stalks look dry, cracked, or “woody” they are probably older and you should find some that are fresher.
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Choose the diameter of the spears according to your needs. The size does not affect the tenderness of the spears; rather, you should be looking for signs of freshness instead. Sometimes smaller asparagus is simply a better look for your food presentation but you will get more food from the larger stalks, especially if the price is per bunch.
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Pick the color of asparagus you want. There are three different types of asparagus when you distinguish based on color. They vary in constitution as well as color. The three colors of asparagus are:
- Green – Green asparagus gets its color from the process of photosynthesis as the stalk comes out of the ground into the sunlight. This type of asparagus should be a bright green color with purple patches.
- White – White asparagus is the same as green asparagus except that it is grown in the dark, so there is no color development from photosynthesis. Because it is grown more artificially (without access to direct sunlight), this type of asparagus is usually more expensive.
- Purple – Purple asparagus is a different variety altogether. It derives its color from high levels of antioxidants in the stalks and has a lower fiber content than the green or white variety. This distinction makes purple asparagus tenderer and sweeter tasting.
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Choose the best type for the flavor you want. Thinner asparagus stems are typically more tender and sweeter. Bigger, fatter asparagus spears are usually meatier in texture and have a stronger asparagus flavor.
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Put your asparagus in the refrigerator. Unlike some dry vegetables, asparagus needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Asparagus left out on the counter or in the pantry will go bad very quickly. For best results, keep your asparagus in the refrigerator so it will last longer.
- Try putting the asparagus in a plastic bag before you put it in the refrigerator.
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Keep the stalk ends trimmed and damp. To help your asparagus stay fresh, trim the ends of the stalk before you put it in the fridge. Wrap a damp paper towel around the ends to keep the asparagus damp and help it retain its moisture. [3] X Research source
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Make your asparagus last longer. To help your asparagus last longer, especially if you won’t be using it for several days (up to a week) after purchasing it, cut off one inch of the stalks at the bottom and put the asparagus upright in a cup filled with a little bit of water (probably about one inch standing water). [4] X Research source
- Put a plastic bag over the top of the asparagus and put it in the refrigerator.
- If the water starts to get cloudy, pour it out and replace it with fresh water.
- This will help your asparagus last many days longer.
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Expert Q&A
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QuestionHow to prepare asparagus?Marcy Ragan is a Personal Chef based in Rumson, New Jersey. She has over 20 years of culinary experience and is currently the Owner and Operator of Relish Your Chef, where she offers bespoke personal chef services, catering, and cooking lessons. She runs a custom meal service for her clients, tailored to their dietary needs. She received her classical training in cooking at the International Culinary Center. She also attended Rutgers University, where she received a BA in Psychology.To prepare asparagus, hold each spear near the bottom and bend it gently until it snaps naturally. Discard the tough end that breaks off. Alternatively, line up the asparagus spears and use a knife to trim off the bottom, about an inch or so. Rinse the asparagus under cold water to remove dirt or grit, and it's ready to be cooked or used in your favorite recipe.
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QuestionIf green asparagus is white on the ends, is it still good?MicheleTop AnswererThe blunt end of the asparagus may sometimes be white, especially in young plants. There are also varieties of white and purple asparagus
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QuestionCan I use asparagus with black tips?MicheleTop AnswererBlack tips could be an indication of spoilage. If the tips are also very soft, then throw them away.
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Tips
- Asparagus will keep 2 - 3 days when stored in the refrigerator.Thanks
- Narrow stalks are more tender than thicker ones.Thanks
- White asparagus is usually more effort to prepare as the woody outer stem needs to be peeled off; however, some outlets sell white asparagus ready-peeled and ready-to-cook. Ask if it is not obvious when purchasing.Thanks
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Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about cooking, check out our in-depth interview with Marcy Ragan .
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About This Article
Article Summary
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To choose asparagus, look for spears that are firm and not bendable. Also, choose spears that have a dark green or purple tint on the tips since that's a sign that they're fresh. Avoid asparagus that looks yellowish or dried out, which is likely old. You should also avoid getting asparagus that's wilted or blemished, and instead opt for asparagus that's moist, plump, and crisp. For tips on how to choose between different varieties of asparagus, scroll down!
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Reader Success Stories
- "I am 60 years old and have a green thumb. Until I read this article, I thought I knew how to choose asparagus. This article is so thorough; if I remember half of the advice, I will be better off. Thank you." ..." more
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"I am 60 years old and have a green thumb. Until I read this article, I thought I knew how to choose asparagus. This article is so thorough; if I remember half of the advice, I will be better off. Thank you."
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"I've ruined so much asparagus by leaving it on the counter, upright, in water. Even by day two, it's already shriveling up. Thanks for the advice to put it in the fridge!"
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"Never bought fresh asparagus before because it's expensive. Taught me the best way to choose what to buy and how long it will keep."
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"I was looking for how to select asparagus. The information answered any questions I had."
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