Asparagus can be found in a few forms and probably the green and white asparagus are the most famous and one can easily buy them from the market. There is another not so common type 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 are 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 can be utilized in an asparagus recipe.
ASPARAGUS SEASON The season for asparagus varies from place to place. The season starts by February in the west coast whilst in most other places it starts in April.
THE BEST ASPARAGUS When selecting your asparagus, choose stalks that aren’t too thick at the base. They ought to be pencil-size and firm enough to stand up. The asparagus tips should be closed together and have a slight purplish tint.
STORAGE TIPS As soon as you bring the asparagus home from the market, wrap the ends in a damp 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 perishable vegetable as soon as possible, ideally the very day you buy.
HOW TO PREPARE ASPARAGUS FOR COOKING Bear in mind, asparagus is basically grown below the soil, so it is especially essential to cleanse it in cold water before you begin cooking. Look for rigid ends and chop them. Blanching and scalding of asparagus must be proceeded by soaking them in cold water in order to preserve their green color.
PROSCIUTTO AND ASPARAGUS PIZZA RECIPE (Makes 6 to 8 servings) Ingredients: One (twelve-inch) unbaked pizza crust six to eight thin slices of prosciutto 1 pound mozzarella cheese, grated 11 ounces goat cheese 12 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. Place pizza crust on a pizza pan and scatter mozzarella over it. Place prosciutto, asparagus and tomatoes over mozzarella, then scatter evenly with goat cheese.
2. Sprinkle thyme and black pepper over pizza. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or till the time it takes the cheese to become bubbly and crust is golden. Let it cool before you slice and serve.
For more information on asparagus recipes please look at Asparagus Recipes You can also take a look at some great video recipes by clicking White Asparagus Recipes