Store green asparagus like a flower bouquet - stems straight in water

DPA
·1 min read
White asparagus can be kept lying flat in the fridge - but not the green variety. Experts say the darker version of the vegetable has its own storage needs. Zacharie Scheurer/dpa
White asparagus can be kept lying flat in the fridge - but not the green variety. Experts say the darker version of the vegetable has its own storage needs. Zacharie Scheurer/dpa

While some prefer white asparagus, anyone who gravitates towards the green variety this season should be aware that the two types not only differ in taste and appearance, but also in how they should be stored.

White asparagus can be kept flat in a wet towel and stored for a short-time in the refrigerator, while the green variety should be kept unpeeled and upright, like a bouquet of flowers, in a bowl with little water.

Storing green asparagus in a vertical position protects the stalks from drying out and helps them to stay fresh for longer and not become woody at the ends so quickly. About 2 to 3 centimetres of water are enough, the Swiss Vegetable Producers Association says.

The freshness boost also helps if the green asparagus looks a little limp and dry when you come home from shopping, vegetable growers say.

Asparagus that has already been cooked can also be stored for a short time - if there is any left over. Keep it in an airtight box or a covered bowl on the top shelf of the fridge at 7-10 degrees.