Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many ways. However, cooking asparagus just right can be tricky. Overcook it and it becomes mushy and lifeless. Undercook it and it remains woody and tough. So what is the trick to getting perfectly tender, crisp-tender asparagus every time? Read on to learn tips and techniques from how to select and store asparagus, to simple cooking methods that will help you achieve asparagus perfection.
How to Select Asparagus
Selecting fresh, high-quality asparagus is the first step to success. Here are some tips:
- Look for firm, straight spears with tight tips. Avoid spears that look dried out or are bending, splitting, or blooming.
- Choose spears that are evenly thick from top to bottom. Thinner spears will cook more quickly.
- Opt for vibrant green spears with tightly closed tips. Any hints of yellowing mean they are past their prime.
- Thinner asparagus spears are ideal for faster cooking methods like grilling or stir-frying. Thicker spears can stand up to roasting or braising.
- If possible, choose local, in-season asparagus for peak freshness and flavor.
How to Store Asparagus
Proper storage is also important for keeping asparagus fresh until you are ready to cook it:
- Store spears upright in a cup with about an inch of water. Cover loosely with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The water will help keep them hydrated.
- Do not wash asparagus until right before cooking. Washing ahead of time can cause it to become slimy.
- Wrap the bottom ends of the spears in a damp paper towel and place in a zip-top bag for short term storage.
- Cut off the woody bottom ends before cooking. They will not become tender no matter how long they are cooked.
Quick Cooking Methods for Asparagus
The key to perfectly cooked asparagus is using quick cooking methods that lock in moisture, flavor, and crisp-tender texture. Here are some easy methods to try:
Steaming
Steaming asparagus quickly above simmering water is one of the simplest cooking methods. To steam:
- Cut off tough bottom ends of asparagus spears.
- In a skillet with a tight-fitting lid, bring 1-2 inches of water to a boil.
- Place asparagus spears in a steamer basket or colander suspended over the boiling water.
- Cover and steam for 2-4 minutes, depending on thickness, until bright green and tender.
- Remove immediately and season as desired.
Roasting
Roasting concentrates flavors and adds delicious caramelization to asparagus. To roast:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Trim ends from asparagus and toss on a baking sheet with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until lightly browned and tender.
Stir-frying
Bring out the crisp-tender texture of asparagus by stir-frying over high heat:
- Trim ends from asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces on the diagonal.
- Heat oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
- Add asparagus and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.
- Remove from heat and add desired sauces or seasonings.
Grilling
Grilled asparagus gets nice char marks and smoky flavor. To grill:
- Toss trimmed asparagus with oil and seasonings.
- Place spears perpendicular to grates.
- Grill over direct high heat for 2-4 minutes, turning once, until tender and lined with grill marks.
Blanching
Fast boiling water blanching cooks asparagus quickly before shocking in ice water. To blanch:
- Fill a pot with salted water and bring to a boil.
- Add asparagus and boil for 1-2 minutes until bright green and slightly softened.
- Drain and immediately plunge into an ice water bath to stop cooking.
Complementary Cooking Methods
While quick cooking is key, pairing those techniques with a short finishing method can enhance flavor and texture.
Sautéing
After steaming or boiling, sauté asparagus in butter or oil over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes to intensify flavor.
Broiling
Broil roasted or grilled asparagus for 1-2 minutes to caramelize the tips.
Braising
Braise steamed asparagus by simmering in broth until tender, about 5 minutes.
Doneness Tests
Check doneness using one of these simple tests:
- Insert the tip of a knife into the thickest part of a stalk. It should slide in easily when done.
- Try eating the stalk. It should be tender but with a little crunch left in the core.
- Snap a stalk in half. It should break cleanly with no stringiness if sufficiently cooked.
Adjust cooking times as needed based on the results of these tests.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some tips for bringing out the best flavor and presentation:
- Toss with lemon juice and zest for brightness.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan or feta cheese for added richness.
- Serve over lemony risotto for an elegant presentation.
- Pile roasted asparagus onto garlic bread for an easy appetizer.
- Top with a poached or fried egg for an easy light meal.
Common Mistakes
It’s easy to go wrong cooking asparagus. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking – Err on the side of slightly underdone when roasting or steaming.
- Undercooking – Allow enough time for thick spears to become fully tender.
- Not removing woody ends – Always trim off the tough bottoms before cooking.
- Washing ahead of time – Wait to rinse until just before cooking to prevent slime.
- Cooking spears of mixed thickness – Group together spears of similar size for even cooking.
Storage of Cooked Asparagus
Cooked asparagus will keep for 3-4 days refrigerated and up to 6 months frozen. To store:
- Allow cooked asparagus to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Add a damp paper towel to help retain moisture.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw before using.
Nutrition Facts
Here are some of the excellent nutritional benefits asparagus provides:
| Nutrient | Amount Per 1 Cup Raw Spears |
|---|---|
| Calories | 27 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin K | 70% DV |
| Folate | 34% DV |
| Vitamin C | 14% DV |
Asparagus is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins K, C, A and B vitamins. It is a great source of antioxidants and potent anticancer compounds.
Recipe Inspiration
Take your asparagus dishes to the next level with these delicious recipe ideas:
Simple Sautéed Asparagus
Ingredients:
- 1 lb asparagus, ends trimmed
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Blanch asparagus in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.
- Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and pepper flakes and sauté briefly.
- Add asparagus and sauté 1-2 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
- Top with shaved Parmesan before serving.
Asparagus Frittata
Ingredients:
- 8 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1 lb asparagus, chopped
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta
- 2 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
Directions:
- Preheat broiler. Whisk eggs and milk together.
- Heat oil in an oven safe skillet. Add asparagus and sauté 3-4 minutes.
- Add egg mixture, feta and dill to pan. Cook until eggs begin to set.
- Place under broiler 2-3 minutes until frittata is puffed and golden.
- Let cool 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Asparagus and Mushroom Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta of choice
- 1 lb asparagus, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 Tbsp butter
- Salt, pepper and Parmesan cheese
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- In a skillet, sauté asparagus, mushrooms and garlic in oil for 5 minutes.
- Add broth and simmer until asparagus is tender, about 3 more minutes.
- Stir in butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toss mushroom and asparagus mixture with cooked pasta. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Conclusion
Achieving tender, perfectly cooked asparagus is easy when you follow a few simple guidelines. Selecting fresh, quality spears, trimming woody ends, and using quick steaming, roasting or grilling methods will ensure your asparagus comes out with a taste and texture to savor. Avoid overcooking for best results. Pair with bold seasonings, cheese, eggs or pasta for some delicious ways to enjoy this healthy vegetable. Mastering the trick to asparagus opens up a world of nutritious and tasty meal ideas.