Photo of the asparagus from http://marvelousgirl.files.wordpress.com

This naturally sweet stalk makes a brief appearance in the Spring. The growing season is about 6-7 weeks in the Spring and early Summer. Once planted it takes three years before you can harvest the first crops. This allows the plant to develop a strong root system. After that point a healthy Asparagus plant should produce for about 15 years.

The temperature determines how often Asparagus can be picked. Early in the season when the temperature is still cool it could be 4-5 days between pickings. Later, when the temperature has warmed a bit, they can be picked every 24 hours.

Asparagus is loaded with a naturally sweet flavor that is enhanced with a quick roasting in a hot oven or on a grill. Asparagus is a nutrient-dense food which in high in Folic Acid and is a good source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin.

My favorite way to eat Asparagus is either grilled or shaved thin and raw with a simple Vinaigrette.

by Ashley Rodriquez
Chef, food blogger, and full-time mom.
You can read more of her writings at www.notwithoutsalt.com