Storage and handling tips

White Asparagus

Asparagus is best cooked the day it’s purchased, but you can keep it fresh in the fridge for up to a week. You’ll want to remove the rubber bands right away; they make the spears sweat and spoil more quickly. Trim about an inch from the stem end, wash the spears and pat dry with paper towels. Stand the stalks up in a glass with a few inches of water in the bottom as you would a vase of fresh-cut flowers; this allows them to retain their flavor and texture a lot longer than if you just toss them in the refrigerator or leave them out on the counter. Cover the spears loosely with a plastic bag to help trap the moisture, and you’ll be set.