[I:http://www.uniquearticlewizard.com/extras/pics/liger123image39.jpg]Green or white forms of asparagus are most commonly available in the markets during spring. Some markets may also carry a purple asparagus too. White asparagus is actually green asparagus that has been grown without light . The white asparagus tends to possess a more subtle taste in comparison to the green ones..
ASPARAGUS SEASON In most areas, asparagus season is April through May. On the west coast it can begin in February and on the east coast it can run through July.
THE BEST ASPARAGUS Asparagus that have thick stalks aren’t ideal for cooking, so do examine the stalks before you purchase. Ideally the stalks should be no thicker than a pencil and should also be relatively firm and erect while the tips should ideally be slightly purple and pointing inward.
STORAGE TIPS As soon as you bring the asparagus home from the marketplace, wrap the ends in a moist paper towel to preserve them moist and place them in the refrigerator. Keep asparagus in the crisper drawer to avoid heat and light. Use the perishable vegetable as quickly as feasible, ideally the very day you buy.
HOW TO PREPARE ASPARAGUS FOR COOKING Before cooking asparagus, gently clean the stalks in a cold water bath. If the base is too firm, slice them off. If you steam or blench asparagus, immediately after cooking, soak stalks in cold water bath to preserve their nice green color.
PROSCIUTTO AND ASPARAGUS PIZZA RECIPE (Makes 6 to 8 servings) Components: 1 (12-inch) unbaked pizza crust six to eight thin slices of prosciutto 1 pound mozzarella cheese, grated eleven ounces goat cheese Twelve spears fresh asparagus, chopped 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved Fresh black pepper one tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Leave pizza crust on a pizza pan and spray mozzarella over it. Arrange asparagus, prosciutto and tomatoes over mozzarella, then sprinkle evenly with goat cheese.
2. Scatter parsley and black pepper on the pizza. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or till the time it takes the cheese to become bubbly and crust is golden. Let it cool before you slice and serve.
For further information on asparagus recipes please go to Great Asparagus Recipes You can also take a look at some awesome video recipes by visiting White Asparagus Recipes
