How Do You Prepare Asparagus For Cooking?
In early spring, many gardeners eagerly anticipate their first asparagus spears. You can ready fresh and flavorful asparagus for cooking with minimal preparation. By keeping the preparation simple, you can free up time in the kitchen and allow the simple flavors of the asparagus to dominate. Ultimately, asparagus is a tasty side dish that is also healthful. Place the asparagus spears into the colander and run cold water over them. Scrub the spears with your fingers or a vegetable brush to clean them well. Place the washed asparagus spears onto the cutting board. Take one spear in both hands and bend it between your hands to break it. Wherever the spear breaks is the general point where the spear goes from being tender to being tough. Repeat this with each spear. Place the spears into a steamer insert for steaming on the stove or into a microwave-safe dish for steaming in the microwave. Steam the spears over hot water for five minutes or less to produce crisp, tender asparagus spears. A
