Tuesday's Tip of the Day: Selecting and Storing Asparagus

Yesterday I announced my infatuation with asparagus and set the stage for all that comes with it. Today I want to take that a step farther by running through a few tips on selecting, storing and cooking it.

Selecting:

Asparagus is a living and breathing organism and should be displayed and stored in a hydrated and moist environment. When shopping for asparagus, always look for them standing in water and the tips are tightly closed.  If the bottoms look dry and cracked they are literally suffocating creating a dry and less-than-prime product. At this point, it is well worth the drive to a location that properly stores them.

Storing:

Just as noted above, asparagus should be kept in a hydrated and moist environment. Just as I pay careful attention to how they store them at the store, I also do the same at home. At home, standing them upright in a bowl or on a plate is not practical with all that is constantly coming in and out ­– plus that fact that simply put, I don’t have that much room.  Instead, loosely wrap the entire bunch in damp paper towels and place them in a Ziplock bag keeping the opening open so they can breath. Every few days, change out the towel to keep them fresh. 

Now that you know what to look for, head to the store and start shopping. Dinner will be ready in no time!

Cheers to starting a new tradition around The Table Together!

Sincerely,

Tiffany Lewis

Founder and true believer in the power of bringing people around The Table Together!