How To Store Asparagus

Fresh asparagus is a versatile and nutritious vegetable, but it can quickly lose its crispness and flavor if not stored properly. Follow these steps and tips for how to store asparagus to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

There are so many delicious ways to eat asparagus, it is one of our favorite vegetables in my house. Whether you want to grill it, roast it, or toss it in pasta or a salad, these tips and tricks will help keep your asparagus fresh and ready to enjoy.

Choosing Asparagus

Look for firm stalks: Choose asparagus with firm, straight stalks. Avoid any that feel limp, soft, or overly woody at the bottom.
Check the tips: The tips should be tight buds, compact, and free from mushy or dark spots.
Color matters: Vibrant green stalks with hints of purple at the tips are ideal. Avoid stalks that appear faded, discolored, or overly pale.
Size preference: Both thin and thick asparagus can be delicious! Thin stalks are tender and cook quickly, while thicker ones hold up better for roasting or grilling but can be more bitter.

overhead of fresh asparagus on a cutting board - 2

How to Store Fresh Asparagus

Here is how to store your fresh asparagus. I recommend doing this as soon as you bring it home from the grocery store, farmer’s market, or garden to maximize its freshness.

Put the stems in water. Put the whole bunch of asparagus stalks stem-down and upright into a drinking glass or glass jar (a mason jar works great) in one to two inches of water.
Put in the refrigerator. Store in the fridge for one to two weeks.
Check on the asparagus. To ensure freshness, replace the water every two to three days. At a minimum, make sure that the asparagus always has water until you are ready to prepare it in a recipe.

How Long to Store Asparagus

Fresh asparagus can last up to one to two weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly. The fresher it is when you bring it home, the longer it will last. If the stalks look slimy or mushy or start to get a funny or foul smell, toss them.

side view of asparagus made in the oven on a blue platter garnished with lemon slices - 3

How To Cook Asparagus

Asparagus makes a delicious side dish or addition to many recipes! Here are a few of my favorite asparagus recipes.

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Asparagus Quiche
Air Fryer Asparagus
Oven Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus Soup

If you follow these steps for how to store asparagus or make any of my recipes, I’d be so grateful if you came back and let me know how you enjoyed it!

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