Asparagus Cuisines - Details On Asparagus And Ways To Cook Them

By Rohan Mishra

Green or white forms of asparagus are most commonly available in the markets during spring. Some markets may carry a purple asparagus too. Asparagus when grown naturally in the open are green in color, it is when they are grown without light that they're devoid of chlorophyl and turn white . Light lets chlorophyll produce the green pigments that give green asparagus its vibrant color. White has a milder taste than its green counterpart but either of them may be used in an asparagus recipe.

ASPARAGUS SEASON In most areas, asparagus season is April through May. On the west coast it can begin in February and on the east coast it can run through July.

THE BEST ASPARAGUS When selecting your asparagus, opt for stalks that are not too thick at the base. They must be pencil-size and firm enough to stand up. The asparagus tips ought to be closed together and have a slight purplish tint.

STORAGE TIPS As soon as you get the asparagus home from the marketplace, wrap the ends in a moist paper towel to preserve them moist and place them in the refrigerator. Keep asparagus in the crisper drawer to avoid heat and light. Use the fresh vegetable as soon as possible, ideally the same day you buy.

HOW TO PREPARE ASPARAGUS FOR COOKING Prior to cooking asparagus, gently rinse the stalks in a cold water bath. If the base is too hard, slice them away. If you steam or blench asparagus, immediately after cooking, submerge stalks in cold water bath to sustain their brilliant green color.

PROSCIUTTO AND ASPARAGUS PIZZA RECIPE (Makes 6 to 8 servings) Components: 1 (12-inch) unbaked pizza crust 6 to 8 thin slices of prosciutto One pound mozzarella cheese, grated eleven ounces goat cheese Twelve spears fresh asparagus, chopped 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Fresh black pepper one tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped

Guidelines: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Put pizza crust on a pizza pan and sprinkle mozzarella on it. Place asparagus, prosciutto and tomatoes over mozzarella, then sprinkle evenly with goat cheese.

2. Scatter thyme and black pepper over pizza. Bake for 15 to 20 min or till the time it takes the cheese to become bubbly and crust is golden. Allow it to cool before slicing and serving.

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For additional information on asparagus recipes please browse Asparagus Recipes You can also take a look at some fantastic video recipes by clicking White Asparagus Recipes