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Storing Asparagus

Here’s the best method for preserving the freshness of this delicate vegetable.

Here’s the best method for preserving the freshness of this delicate vegetable.

To determine how to best maintain asparagus’ bright color and crisp texture, we tested refrigerating spears in the plastic bag we’d bought them in, enclosed in a paper bag, wrapped in a damp paper towel, and with the stalk ends trimmed and standing up in a small amount of water. After three days the results were clear. Those left in the plastic bag had become slimy, while the paper bag and towel bunches had shriveled tips and limp stalks. However, the bunch stored in water looked as good as fresh and retained its firm texture.

To store asparagus this way, trim the bottom ½ inch of the stalks and stand the spears upright in a glass. Add enough water to cover the bottom of the stalks by 1 inch and place the glass in the refrigerator. Asparagus stored this way should remain relatively fresh for about four days; you may need to add a little more water every few days. Re-trim the very bottom of the stalks before using.

VEGETABLE BOUQUET

Store cut asparagus in water to keep it fresh longer.

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