Asparagus
facts and general information
about asparagus.
Asparagus is Available in Season:
Fresh mid to late spring.
How Does Asparagus Grow:
Asparagus grows in long tall stalks. In spring, they grow wild, even on
some roadsides and can keep producing for years to come.
What to Look For When Buying Asparagus:
Pick asparagus that are thin and green-purplish in color. Select ones
that are crisp with tightly bunched heads.
Asparagus Facts-Storage Tips:
Use quickly and store in fridge with stalks in a cup of water if not
using the same day.
How to Cook Asparagus:
Wash. Break off ends by bending and snapping the end of the stalks. Use
a
wide
skillet the stalks can lay down in. Boil in 5 cups of water with 1/2
Tablespoon salt. Boil 5-7 minutes until skewer pierces the middle
easily. Don’t overcook.
Asparagus Nutrition Facts:
High in folacin and a good source of potassium and
fiber. Asparagus are a good source of Viatmin B, calcium and magnesium.
Kids Cooking Lessons and Food Facts Unit
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Also included in the ebook unit is our Kids Cooking Lessons Section and Seasonal Cooking Activities.
Prepare asparagus by boiling for 5-7 minutes as mentioned above.
Meanwhile melt butter in microwave. Arrange asparagus on serving
platter when done. Drizzle melted butter and top with chopped almonds
if desired.
Asparagus Cheese Appetizers
12 asparagus spears
6 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon lemon juice
crackers
Cook asparagus until tender. Drain. Meanwhile, in a bowl blend cream
cheese, Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Spread on top of a cracker.
Cut asparagus into 1 inch pieces. Place one asparagus piece on top of
cream cheese mixture. Serve.
Asparagus Risotto
1 tablespoon butter
1 onion, finely chopped
3/4 lb asparagus, cut in 1 inch pieces
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1- 1/2 cups short grain rice
4 cups chicken broth
1/4 cup cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
In saucepan melt butter and sauté onions and garlic several
minutes until onions are transparent. Add rice and stir until coated.
When rice starts to look shiny like glass add chicken broth. Bring to a
boil and add asparagus. Cover and turn heat to medium-low. Allow to
steam and cook for about 10 minutes or until rice is fluffy and done.
Stir in cream, Parmesan cheese and basil until well combined. Serve
immediately.
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