MNN - Mother Nature Network

Asparagus has been everywhere in our local stores. With better prices than I've seen in a long time, we've been taking home several bunches of asparagus every week. This favorite spring vegetable is enjoyable when prepared both simply and when added to more complex dishes. Here are a couple of my favorite ways to enjoy this lovely vegetable. 

 

1. Roasted Asparagus 

Roasting brings out all of the depth of flavor possible with asparagus. I could eat roasted asparagus everyday. It is simple to throw together for a side dish, which also makes me happy. If you wanted to make it fancier, you could also prepare my Roasted Asparagus with Mushrooms and Lemon Butter Sauce. 

 

2. Soups

Asparagus makes a great addition to soup. It is delicious as a creamed soup like, Asparagus Soup with Gremolata (gremolata is a parsley, garlic, lemon garnish that contains a lot of fresh flavor), or added to a Simple Egg Drop Soup. 

 

3. Grilled Pancetta-Wrapped Asparagus 

Some friends served us this recipe made with bacon instead of pancetta and it was amazing. Bacon (or pancetta) makes everything taste better, right?

 

4. Asparagus, Peas and Basil 

This simple sauté highlights the sweetness of the peas and asparagus with fresh basil. Just the right dish for a hot spring day when you want something light. 

 

5. Shaved Asparagus with Parmesan Vinaigrette 

Speaking of fresh, why not keep asparagus raw? With asparagus coming into the height of its season soon, this is the perfect salad to enjoy the crisp flavor of raw asparagus. 

 

What are your favorite ways to serve asparagus? I'd love to get some new ideas! 

 

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