3 Recipes with Asparagus | The Star of Spring Cooking

As the weather finally warms up, we’re excited to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into our meals.

One of our favourite spring vegetables is asparagus. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also so so good for you. Asparagus is a highly nutritious vegetable that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories and contains high levels of folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as several B vitamins. Asparagus also contains antioxidants and is a good source of dietary fibre. It is known for its ability to support digestive health and may also have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, asparagus is high in potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Today, we’re sharing our top tips for cooking with asparagus and some of our favourite recipes from the Humphrey Munson blog…

1. Choose the right asparagus: when shopping for asparagus, look for bright green stalks with firm tips. The thicker the stalk, the longer it will take to cook.
2. Prep your asparagus: snap off the tough ends of the asparagus and discard. If the skin seems tough, you can peel the stalks with a vegetable peeler.
3. Grill it: grilling asparagus is a quick and easy way to enjoy it. Brush the asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the asparagus is tender and slightly charred.
4. Roast it: roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in a preheated oven at 200°C for 6-8 minutes, until the asparagus is tender and browned in spots.
5. Add it to salads: asparagus adds a fresh crunch to any salad. Blanch the asparagus briefly in boiling water, then shock in ice water to stop the cooking process. Add to your favourite salad for a burst of colour and flavour.

Now, let’s move on to the fun part – recipes. Here are three of our favourite asparagus recipes from the Humphrey Munson blog:

1. Asparagus and Bacon Tart: the combination of the tender asparagus, bacon, and savoury leek and pesto filling provides a taste sensation that is both sophisticated and comforting.
2. Asparagus, pea and mint risotto: this simple recipe lets the natural flavour of asparagus shine. Grilling the asparagus adds a smoky depth of flavour, while the mint and Parmesan cheese add brightness and saltiness.
3. Asparagus and Chorizo Gnocchi: the sweetness of the asparagus complements the salty chorizo and the richness of the creamy sauce, resulting in a flavourful and satisfying meal.

We hope these tips and recipes inspire you to cook with asparagus this spring. Remember to shop for the freshest ingredients and enjoy the seasonal flavours. Happy cooking!

Images: HM