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A close photo of asparagus
Vegetables Stem vegetables

Asparagus

Asparagus is a prized spring vegetable known for its tender, spear-shaped shoots and delicate, grassy flavor. Low in calories and rich in nutrients, it’s enjoyed worldwide both cooked and raw, and is available in green, white, and purple varieties. Asparagus is celebrated for its health benefits, versatility in recipes, and unique growing process.

Did you know ?

  • 1 Asparagus can grow up to 7 inches in a single day during peak season.
  • 2 Green and white asparagus are from the same plant; white is grown underground to prevent color.
  • 3 Asparagus spears are harvested before they turn into tall, feathery ferns.

View other Stem vegetables

Nutrition

Detailed nutritional values of asparagus

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Values of an average serving (~100g) - raw :

Calories20 kcal
Proteins2.2g
Carbohydrates2g
of which sugars1.5g
Fiber2.1g
Fats0.2g

Vitamins and minerals

Main vitamins

Vitamin CVitamin B9

Main minerals and trace elements

PotassiumPhosphorusIronMagnesium

Ripeness

How to know if an asparagus is ripe ?

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A perfectly ripe asparagus

Perfectly ripe

Ripe asparagus is firm, juicy, and flavorful, with tightly closed tips and vibrant color.

How to recognize this state :

  • Firm, straight spears with no wilting
  • Tightly closed, compact tips
  • Bright green, purple, or white color (depending on variety)
  • Moist, crisp cut ends
  • Snaps cleanly when bent
  • Mild, grassy aroma
  • Feels heavy for its size

Selection

How to choose asparagus ?

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To choose quality asparagus at the supermarket or market :

  • Choose firm, straight spears with tightly closed tips
  • Look for vibrant green, purple, or white color (depending on variety)
  • Stalks should be crisp, not limp or rubbery
  • Avoid spears with shriveled, dry, or split ends
  • Check for a fresh, grassy aroma and avoid any sour or musty smell

Storage and ripening

How to store and ripen an asparagus ?

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How to store asparagus ?

  • Store asparagus in the refrigerator, standing upright in a jar or glass with 2–3 cm of water, and loosely cover the tops with a plastic bag.
  • Alternatively, wrap the cut ends in a damp paper towel and place in a perforated bag in the crisper drawer. Use within 3–5 days for best quality.

How to ripen asparagus ?

If you have slightly underdeveloped asparagus, try these tips :

  • Let spears sit at room temperature for a day to allow slight softening.
  • Trim ends and soak in cool water for 30 minutes to refresh texture.
  • Store upright in water at room temperature for a few hours to revive limp spears.
  • Steam or blanch briefly to soften any remaining toughness.
  • Avoid direct sunlight and heat, which can cause rapid deterioration.

Health

Health benefits of an asparagus

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  • Rich in antioxidants, helping protect cells from oxidative stress
  • High in folate (vitamin B9), crucial for cell growth and pregnancy
  • Supports digestive health with dietary fiber
  • Contains vitamin K for bone health and blood clotting
  • Low in calories and fat, making it weight-friendly

Origin

What is the origin of asparagus ?

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Asparagus is native to Eurasia and has been cultivated for over two millennia. It was highly valued in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome for its unique taste and medicinal properties. Today, asparagus is grown in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, with major production in Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

Regions of origin

  • Western Europe (Spain, France, Germany)
  • North America (United States, Mexico, Peru)
  • Northern Africa (Morocco)
  • East Asia (China)

Recipes

Cook an asparagus according to its ripeness

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Unripe

  • Pickled asparagus spears
  • Asparagus stir-fry with ginger
  • Asparagus tempura

Perfectly ripe

  • Grilled asparagus with lemon
  • Classic asparagus risotto
  • Roasted asparagus with parmesan

Overripe

  • Creamy asparagus soup
  • Asparagus quiche
  • Asparagus puree

F.A.Q

Frequently asked questions

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Warnings

Warnings and precautions for asparagus

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  • Wash asparagus thoroughly to remove soil and pesticide residues.
  • Avoid eating asparagus berries-they are toxic to humans and pets.
  • Some people may experience mild digestive discomfort after eating large amounts.
  • Asparagus can cause urine to have a strong odor, which is harmless.
  • People with certain kidney conditions should moderate intake due to purines.

Do not confuse with

Green beans

Similar in shape but beans are legumes, not stem vegetables, and have a different flavor and texture.

White salsify

Root vegetable sometimes called 'vegetable oyster'; looks similar when peeled but tastes different and is not related.