In this article, we’re going to answer your top questions about asparagus. We’ll tell you all about the taste and texture, plus some of the most delectable ways to serve it.
Let’s dive right in…
What Does Asparagus Taste Like?
Asparagus is a pretty strong-tasting vegetable, though it’s quite likable. It’s like a more robust green bean, earthy, grassy and a touch like broccoli.
There are a few types of asparagus. Green asparagus has the stronger flavor while white asparagus, which is grown away from the sun so that it doesn’t produce chlorophyll (which would turn it green), is more delicate.
Purple asparagus is sweeter, though it’s less commonly found than green or even white asparagus. The green kind is widely sold in supermarkets.
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Asparagus Texture
The top of a stalk of asparagus is very tender while the bottom half is firmer and more fibrous. This is especially true of raw asparagus.
Cooked asparagus is much softer and should have a bit of a snap to it. This is one vegetable you don’t want to overcook, or it’ll turn to mush.
A tip: Transferring asparagus to an ice bath immediately after sauteing should help keep it crisp.
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Can We Eat Raw Asparagus?
You sure can. You can eat any type of asparagus fresh, but the purple kind is sweetest. It also turns green when cooked, so if you want to get the most out of this enchanting veggie, serve it raw.
Snack on raw asparagus dipped in hummus or slice it thin and turn it into coleslaw. The fresher it is, the better—as asparagus ages, it gets drier and a lot tougher.
To learn about properly storing it, check out our article on how to freeze asparagus.
Can You Eat Asparagus Cold?
You can eat asparagus at any temperature. This includes chilled asparagus straight from the fridge and cold asparagus soups.
Salads are the easiest meals for chilled, raw asparagus. But this doesn’t have to mean just throwing it on top of your greens.
Make a cold asparagus salad with lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup and fresh herbs and top it with pine nuts for a creamy, crunchy side dish.
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How Do You Take the Bitterness Out of Asparagus?
Lemon juice is one of the most reliable and tasty ways to take the bitterness out of asparagus. A squeeze of lemon during or after cooking will do the trick.
Sweet flavors also help, so don’t by shy about adding a touch agave or a handful of raisins. White asparagus is the most bitter of the types, so go for green or purple if you prefer a milder taste.
Asparagus Serving Tips
So what goes with asparagus? Check out these videos for luscious vegan recipes you’ll want to hang onto when you’re entertaining.
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This white wine pasta dish is so fabulous and so simple, and it’s ready in a flash.
Here’s what you need to make it:
- Orecchiette pasta
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Onions
- Asparagus
- Vegan butter
- Vegan white wine
- Lemon
- Pepper
- Optional: parsley, vegan parmesan and chili flakes
For a light lunch or a starter, try this velvety vegan asparagus soup.
You’ll need:
- Asparagus
- Red onions
- Potatoes
- Garlic
- Lemon
- Veggie broth
- Plant milk
- Flour
- Dried basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Wrap Up
Asparagus is earthy, grassy and mildly like broccoli in flavor. Eat it hot or cold, raw or cooked. You can do quite a lot with it—try grilling, roasting, baking or sauteing it. Make a light, summery vegan cream of asparagus soup or a garlic and white wine pasta for an easy, delicious meal your dinner guests will adore.
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Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
