How to Cook Asparagus Your Family Will Love

When cooking asparagus, it's important to take the time to learn how to cook asparagus correctly.

There are many reasons why this vegetable is considered to be highly beneficial to those that consume it.

First, it contains high levels of fiber. It also contains other nutrients such as Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and folate.

You may not realize it, but asparagus is also an important antioxidant. You may choose from fresh asparagus or asparagus that is canned.

Many view this particular vegetable as a "treat" simply because of the care that is taken during the cultivation process, as well as the price associated with it. Here, you will learn how to choose asparagus and how to cook asparagus.

How to Choose Fresh Asparagus

When choosing asparagus, the first fact you should know is that it's available in three different colors. The most common form is green. However, there are also varieties that are white in color, as well as purple.

In addition to the color, there are types that are grown exceptionally thick and types that are relatively thin.

Ultimately, it's best to choose asparagus that displays the characteristics of being firm to the touch, straight as far as stalks are concerned, and don't have any visible signs of deterioration.

Choosing fresh asparagus that has been kept in a cold environment is best so that it doesn't go bad so quickly. Once you have made your choice, it's important that you use it within three days of purchase to experience maximum freshness.

Cooking Asparagus...Several Ways How to Cook Asparagus

Before cooking asparagus, you should take the time to thoroughly rinse the spears of each stalk. Remove and discard the tough ends of the asparagus stalks by bending and breaking them. Only use the tenderest parts or the tops of the asparagus stalks.

Once the stalks have been cleaned and cut, the manner of cooking asparagus is actually more of a individual preference. However, you have the options of roasted asparagus, boiled asparagus, steamed asparagus, grilled asparagus, using it in a stir-fry mix, blanching it, and you may even choose microwaved asparagus.

Below, you will find instructions explaining several methods of how to cook asparagus:

• Roasting Asparagus - If you elect to roast the asparagus, you will need to get out a baking sheet and spray it with cooking spray that is designed not to stick. Lay the asparagus on the baking sheet. To enhance the flavor and retain the moisture of the vegetable, use spray butter and coat each piece. You may then place it in the oven for approximately fifteen minutes at 425 degrees.
• Boiling Asparagus - In order to boil asparagus, you will need a skillet with sides that are over an inch in height. Lay the asparagus in the pan and then add water. It typically only takes about five minutes to successfully boil the water so that the asparagus is cooked thoroughly. You may season as you desire.
• Steaming Asparagus - Using kitchen bands, tie the asparagus at the bottom and at the top near the tips. You will then place this bundle in a large pot of water that is boiling. You will want to cover the pot and allow the vegetable to cook for approximately ten minutes.
• Grilling Asparagus - If you want to grill asparagus, spray the rack with either a spray of olive oil or a butter spray, lay out the stalks, and cook for about three minutes on each side until the stalks become tender.
• Stir-Frying Asparagus - If you stir-fry asparagus, you may cook it in butter, olive oil, or another oil-based liquid for about three to five minutes. The most important thing to remember is to cut it into small pieces first.
• Blanching Asparagus - For blanching, simply boil the asparagus thoroughly and then take it out of the heat and immediately put it in ice cold water.
• Microwave Asparagus - It is not advised to microwave fresh asparagus, but if you do be sure the water and seasonings cover the vegetable. Then, heat for about five minutes. If cooking canned asparagus put the vegetable in a bowl of water and add olive oil.

As you can see, there are many different ways of cooking asparagus. By following the simple steps contained on this page, you can learn how to cook asparagus that will please you and your family!

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