It is great to try and grow a “challenging plant,” as that is one of the best ways to learn about gardening. Even if the plant doesn't thrive or produce a harvest, you'll learn a lot and become a better gardener!
Asparagus cooks quickly. Cook it until just barely tender. Thicker stalks take longer to cook. Overcooked or reheated cooked asparagus may become bitter and stringy or mushy.
❁ Boil or blanch in enough water to cover the stalks.
❁ Steam over boiling water.
■ Refrigerate fresh asparagus for up to 5 days.
Stand stalks in 1 inch of water like a flower bouquet and cover with a plastic bag. OR
Wrap cut ends in a damp paper towel and cover the towel with plastic.
Generally, thinner spears are more delicate and tender; thicker spears have stronger flavor and hearty texture. Thicker spears can be sliced on the diagonal into smaller pieces to cook more quickly.
❁ Green – the most common type.
❁ Look for stalks that are firm with tightly closed tips. Color can be bright green, creamy white or even purple.
❁ Stalks with the same thickness will cook in the same amount of time.
