Asparagus: Unique Ways to Enjoy It and How to Pick the Best Stalks

Asparagus is a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or even using it raw, asparagus brings a fresh, vibrant flavor to your meals. If you’re wondering how to take your asparagus game to the next level, here are some unique ways to enjoy it, plus tips on how to pick out the best stalks at the store!

Unique Ways to Use Asparagus in the Kitchen

Asparagus Fries
Turn your asparagus into a crispy, savory treat by making asparagus fries. Simply dip the spears in egg wash, coat them with breadcrumbs or panko, and bake or fry until golden and crunchy. Serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a fun appetizer or side dish.

Asparagus Pesto

Pesto doesn’t always have to be made with basil! Try using asparagus as the base for a unique pesto. Simply blend cooked asparagus with garlic, lemon juice, nuts (like almonds or pine nuts), Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. This pesto can be tossed with pasta, spread on sandwiches, or drizzled over roasted vegetables.

Asparagus Tacos
Give your tacos a veggie upgrade by adding sautéed or roasted asparagus to your filling. Pair it with black beans, corn, avocado, and your favorite salsa for a delicious and nutritious taco that’s a bit outside the box.

Asparagus Quiche

Asparagus is perfect for adding color and flavor to a savory quiche. Combine it with cheese, eggs, and your choice of herbs in a flaky pie crust for a brunch-worthy dish that’ll impress your guests.

Asparagus Salad with Citrus
Fresh asparagus is a great addition to salads, especially when paired with bright citrus flavors. Blanch the asparagus to preserve its color and tenderness, then toss it with oranges, lemons, or grapefruit, along with leafy greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan & Balsamic Glaze
Grilling asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, and when you finish it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of Parmesan, you have a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Asparagus Soup
For a creamy and comforting option, try making a velvety asparagus soup. Sauté onions and garlic, add asparagus and broth, then purée everything until smooth. Top with a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the dish.

How to Pick Out the Best Asparagus

When you’re shopping for asparagus, it’s important to choose fresh, tender stalks to get the most out of your veggie. Here are some tips to help you select the best bunches:

Look for Bright Green or Purple Tips
Fresh asparagus should be bright green or even slightly purple at the tips. Avoid stalks with yellowing or wilting tips, as these are signs of aging or poor quality.

Check the Stalks
The stalks should be firm and smooth with no cracks or blemishes. Thicker stalks are generally sweeter and more tender, while thinner ones may be tougher. Both have their uses, but if you’re after tenderness, opt for medium to thicker stalks.

Look for Freshness
If you see asparagus in a bunch with dry or “woody” ends, it’s likely not fresh. The ends should be moist and juicy, not dried out. If they’re looking dry, ask the store if they’ve been sitting out for too long.

Snapping the Stalk
To avoid waste, try snapping one of the stalks. Fresh asparagus will naturally break at a certain point where the tender part meets the tougher, woody bottom. You can trim the rest of the bunch to match.

Buy Local When Possible
Asparagus has a relatively short growing season, so try to buy it when it’s in season locally. Locally grown asparagus is often fresher and more flavorful than imports, and it supports your local farmers!

Asparagus is an easy-to-make yet versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of unique ways in the kitchen. Whether you’re turning it into crispy fries, a fresh salad, or a creamy soup, there are endless possibilities. And when you pick out your asparagus at the store, follow these tips to ensure you’re choosing the best of the bunch. Luckily, at The Market at Cold Creek, we only have fresh asparagus from Monetta, SC! Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy this nutritious and delicious vegetable all season long!