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Asparagus is a powerhouse of nutrients: packed with antioxidants, folate, vitamin C and potassium. Yet, some people shy away from it due to its slightly bitter taste and fibrous texture, particularly near the stems. If not prepared properly, these factors can make asparagus less appealing.
But, when cooked with care, this versatile veggie can add a delicious touch to your meals. Whether you like it whole, sliced or shaved, here’s some inspo to help you make the most of asparagus in your cooking!
Asparagus has an earthy flavour that pairs wonderfully with ham and bacon. For a quick dinner party appetiser, boil the spears for three to four minutes, drain and let them cool. Wrap with ham or bacon, brush with olive oil and roast at 200°C for 10 to 15 minutes.
Thicker spears, such as Asparagus Fresh – Australia, work best, as they provide more surface area for the ham or bacon to cling to.
Tip: The fat and juices from the ham or bacon will flavour the asparagus, so no extra dressing or sauces are needed.
An easy way to enjoy asparagus is by shaving it into thin strips for a salad. Although some recipes call for raw asparagus, we prefer boiling or steaming it first to soften the texture. After trimming the tough ends, use a vegetable peeler to shave the spears into ribbons, then toss with your favourite salad dressing, such as Kewpie Dressing – Sesame Soy Sauce. Any type of asparagus works well for this, but medium to thick spears are ideal for creating sturdy ribbons.
Tip: When the stems become too thin to shave further, don’t discard them. They’re perfect for adding to rice or pasta dishes — see the next point below!
If your carbs need a boost of fibre and colour, thinner spears — like Pasar Thailand Asparagus — are ideal. Their smaller size makes them tender and quick to cook. Cut them into 3- to 5-cm pieces, then add them to fried rice or pasta during the last minute or two of cooking, and serve immediately.
Tip: Asparagus has a distinct, woody flavour that pairs well with seafood like salmon, prawns and scallops in fried rice or pasta.
For more asparagus recipes, click here.
If this is your first time preparing asparagus, there’s no need to be intimidated. This vegetable takes little effort to clean, cut and cook, so you can whip up a meal in no time.
