Asparagus is available in a few types and probably the green and white asparagus are the most well-liked and one can easily purchase them from the market. There is another not so common variety of asparagus that’s purple in color, although its tough to find. Asparagus when grown naturally in the open are green in color, it’s when they are grown without light that they’re devoid of chlorophyl and turn white . The white asparagus tends to have a milder taste in comparison to the green ones..
ASPARAGUS SEASON In most areas, asparagus season is April through May. In the west coast it can begin in February and on the east coast it can run through July.
THE BEST ASPARAGUS Asparagus which have thick stalks aren’t ideal for cooking, so do examine the stalks before you purchase. Ideally the stalks should be no thicker than a pencil and should also be relatively firm and erect while the tips should ideally be slightly purple and pointing inward.
STORAGE TIPS As soon as you bring the asparagus home from the market, wrap the ends in a damp paper towel to keep them moist and place them in the refrigerator. Keep asparagus in the crisper drawer to avoid heat and light. Use the perishable vegetable as soon as feasible, ideally the same day you buy.
HOW TO PREPARE ASPARAGUS FOR COOKING Remember, asparagus is actually grown underground, so it is especially essential to wash it in cold water before you begin cooking. Look for rigid ends and cut them. Blanching and scalding of asparagus must be followed by immersing them in cold water in order to preserve their green color.
PROSCIUTTO AND ASPARAGUS PIZZA RECIPE (Makes 6 to 8 servings) Components: 1 (12-inch) unbaked pizza crust six to eight thin slices of prosciutto One pound mozzarella cheese, grated 11 ounces goat cheese Twelve spears fresh asparagus, chopped 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Fresh black pepper one tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Put pizza crust on a pizza pan and scatter mozzarella on it. Place prosciutto, asparagus and tomatoes over mozzarella, then scatter evenly with goat cheese.
2. Sprinkle basil and black pepper on the pizza. Bake for 15 to 20 min or till the time it takes the cheese to become bubbly and crust is golden. Let it cool before slicing and serving.
For additional details on asparagus recipes please go to Asparagus Recipes You can also take a look at some awesome video recipes by visiting White Asparagus Recipes