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Asparagus

Asparagus: Main Image

Related Topics

  1. Penne with Chicken and Artichokes
  2. Recipes with Asparagus

Buying Tips

The peak season for fresh asparagus lasts from February through June; hothouse asparagus is available year-round in some regions. Asparagus is also available canned and frozen. When buying asparagus, choose firm, bright green (or pale ivory) stalks with tight tips. Wider spears are from older plants, and slender spears from younger ones; both are tender and flavorful.

Varieties

Green asparagus is the most commonly seen type. White asparagus, which is grown underground to prevent chlorophyll from developing and turning it green, has thicker, smoother spears. It’s harder to find, but worth the effort. A less frequently seen variety is purple asparagus, called viola, which actually turns green during cooking.

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The information presented in the Food Guide is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of US–registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2025.