Fresh-Tasting Asparagus

Asparagus is the young shoots of a cultivated lily plant and have a distinct, intense savoury flavour. Asparagus is packed with nutritional goodness having high levels of vitamins A and C, potassium, iron and calcium. When choosing Asparagus in our Farm Shop check that the tips are tightly furled and perky, rather than limp, and the shoots are nice and straight and firm. When preparing Asparagus wash and then bend the spear until it snaps and throw the woody end away. If the ends still feel tough, you can pare away the exterior to reveal the more tender flesh beneath. Asparagus can be used in risottos, quiches and pasta dishes, but it's especially good when cooked quickly - either steamed (4-5 minutes, depending on size) for a few minutes and served with a poached egg to dip the spears into, or drizzled with olive oil and griddled or barbecued. Alternatives to Asparagus, try fine green beans or mange tout.