How to Store Asparagus So It Stays Fresh and Crisp
Consider this everything you need to know about asparagus storage.
Fact checked by Isaac WinterMedically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDNFact checked by Isaac WinterMedically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Fresh asparagus at the farmer's market is a sure sign of warm weather to come, but do you know how to store asparagus so it stays fresh? Traditionally, asparagus is at its peak in May and June, and once you buy it, it can last in the fridge for about a week or even longer in the freezer, keeping its verdant flavor, color, and texture intact.
If you don't cook with your whole asparagus in that time, no worries. We have some chef-approved tips on how to preserve and freeze your asparagus for a later date.
Meet the Expert
Fernando Navas is a chef and the owner of BALVANERA, an Argentinian restaurant in Manhattan.
How to Choose Asparagus
Preparing delicious asparagus begins with choosing the best asparagus at the market. There are a few different ways to tell whether you're getting the best bundle in the store. First, check to see if your store has them displayed with the bottoms in water; this keeps the asparagus fresh. Otherwise, the bundles can dry out. Then inspect the stalks for:
Firmness—Each stalk should be firm from top to bottom
Tight buds—The buds or crowns at the top of the asparagus should be clumped together tightly
Thickness—Check the bundle to see if all stalks are approximately the same thickness, otherwise they'll cook at a different rate
Color—The stalks should be a fresh, bright green, and the buds should have a purplish hue
Tip
Skinny asparagus isn't necessarily younger than thick asparagus; thickness depends on the age of the crown (the part the asparagus grows from).
How Long Does Asparagus Last?
Asparagus is best cooked as soon as you buy it, so if you can, get to the store on the day you're planning to have it for your meal. "Asparagus can be temperamental," says chef Fernando Navas. "I like to buy small quantities for the restaurant and use it right away to really show off that special 'snap' and grassy, springtime flavor."
If you need to buy it in advance, store it for five days maximum in the refrigerator. Otherwise, it can get stringy and tough. At home, Navas recommends keeping whole asparagus in your refrigerator crisper drawer for a week or so. "But the sooner you can eat it, the better," he adds. "That's generally my opinion on everything except a dry-aged steak, cheese, or bottle of wine." You'll know your asparagus has reached peak freshness when the heads start getting softer. That's when it's time to eat, cook, or freeze the veggie.
If you notice that your refrigerated asparagus is drooping or wilting, it's best to toss it. "Don't wait until the stems begin to change color and lose firmness," Navas warns. Asparagus should be crisp and firm, and if it starts to look droopy, that's a sign that it's going bad. Other signs of spoiling include spreading crowns, strong smell, or if it is slimy.
Two Ways to Store Fresh Asparagus
Keeping your fresh-from-the-market asparagus crisp isn't difficult, it just takes some prepping and proper asparagus storage.
Short-Term Storage
Short-term storage is meant for asparagus that needs to be stored for one to two days. To keep it fresh, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag in your vegetable drawer. This method is best for asparagus that you plan to cook tonight—for anything longer, use the long-term method.
Long-Term Storage
Long-term asparagus storage is appropriate if you plan to keep the veggie for up to five days. Some home cooks store their asparagus in water, like fresh flowers. To do so:
Trim the ends (about 1/4-inch is enough)
Arrange your asparagus in a cup, mug, or vase with a few inches of fresh water
Store it in the fridge, but if you don't have space, the countertop can also work for a few days.
You can also place a plastic bag, plastic wrap, or paper towel over the top of the spears to protect them and help ensure that they retain that classic crispness.
If you notice the water getting cloudy, change it out, ideally every day or so. Fresh asparagus stored in this manner can last over a week.
How to Store Cooked Asparagus
Once you've cooked your asparagus, wrap it in foil and store it in the fridge for up to two days. You can also keep it in a tightly sealed food storage container. If you wait longer than 48 hours, Navas recommends reinventing your cooked asparagus into something else, like a soup. You can also freeze cooked asparagus or the asparagus soup you make with leftovers.
Related: How to Store Strawberries So They Won't Spoil Quickly
How to Freeze Asparagus
Fresh asparagus can be frozen, but not straight out of the fridge. To preserve color and texture, and not let the raw asparagus turn to mush, cut the ends of fresh asparagus, and then cut it into smaller pieces, if desired. Then, blanch in boiling, salted water for about 30-60 seconds, until it turns bright green, and transfer to an ice bath. This will preserve the color, texture, and flavor. Pat the asparagus dry and move it to a freezer bag with the date. "You have about a year to cook [with fresh frozen] asparagus," Navas advises. "Just enough time to get to peak season again; a great way to extend springtime."
Once you're ready to use your frozen asparagus, do not thaw. Instead, cook from frozen by sautéing or steaming the vegetable to preserve the most flavor, texture, and color.
Asparagus Recipe Ideas
Ready to use that fresh or frozen asparagus? Here's what to do with it! Make a quick and simple broiled asparagus that uses just olive oil, salt, and pepper to highlight the best tastes asparagus has to offer. You can also make a fast and healthy-enough linguine dish with asparagus and pine nuts, that's the perfect weeknight dinner or even dinner party hit. If you're eager to fire up the grill, we have a few tips for the perfect grilled asparagus, which hits every time. And if you're going for a full-on feast that highlights asparagus, try these lamb chops with charred asparagus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does asparagus have to be refrigerated?
Yes, you should refrigerate asparagus as soon as possible after buying it. However, make sure that it does not freeze; freezing raw asparagus can cause it to turn mushy. Storing it in your vegetable drawer or on the lower shelves of your refrigerator will ensure that it stays cool, but doesn't freeze.
Should I wash asparagus before storing?
You don't need to wash asparagus before storing it in the fridge. But you do need to wash it before you cook it. The best way to wash it is to run it under cool water after you've snapped or cut off the ends, then pat it dry.
Does asparagus need to be soaked before cooking?
Asparagus doesn't need to be soaked before cooking, just given a good washing. There's nothing wrong with soaking it if you're determined to get it as clean as possible. Just be sure to use cold water, and don't soak it for more than a few minutes, or it could get soggy.
Related: 33 Spring Fruits and Vegetables to Buy at Their Peak
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