Spring is finally here and with it comes the first fresh vegetables after a long winter.  Asparagus is usually one of the first to emerge with its tender shoots offering up a great tasting vegetable that is quite versatile in many recipes.  In addition to the great taste, asparagus is also low in calories, contains no fats or cholesterol, is low in sodium and provides a good source of folic acid, potassium and dietary fiber.

Asparagus & Leeks

There are three popular types of asparagus varieties these days; the more common green asparagus, white asparagus (less bitter than the green variety) and purple asparagus (higher in sugar and lower in fiber than the green variety).  Each of the three is quite delicious with slight differences in taste.  

There are several ways to prepare asparagus; steaming, boiling, grilling and stir frying being the most popular.  The best asparagus hits during this time of year (early spring) when the shoots are tender.  If you prepare asparagus later on in the year you might find it necessary to peel off the lower section of the shoot with a vegetable peeler to ensure that the whole shoot is tender.

Top 10 Spring Asparagus Recipes:

Smoked Salmon & Asparagus Pasta

#1:  Asparagus & Mixed Mushroom Risotto

#2:   Asparagus & Leeks

#3:  Asparagus & Potato Frittata with Gruyere

#4:  Asparagus with Balsamic Butter

#5:  Smoked Salmon & Asparagus Pasta

Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

#6:  Asparagus with Mango Mayo

#7:  Asparagus Wrapped in Prosciutto

#8:  Cedar Planked Asparagus

#9:  Crepes with Chicken, Asparagus & Mushrooms

#10:  Grilled Asparagus & Scallions

-Chef Jessica