Is there anything better than British asparagus when it’s in season? Asparagus has a relatively short season in the British seasonal calendar, so enjoy it while it’s here.
Some of Dunsters farm asparagus is grown by the Chinn family in the Wye Valley, where light sandy soils, a sheltered valley and a cool climate make for great conditions to grow this springtime veg.
Asparagus is one of those vegetables that instantly signals the arrival of spring. With its slender green spears, delicate flavour, and satisfying crunch, it’s both elegant and incredibly versatile. Whether lightly steamed, roasted to perfection, or shaved raw into salads, asparagus brings a fresh, slightly earthy taste that pairs beautifully with a wide range of ingredients. However, we recommend you cook them simply in a pan with butter, a splash of water, salt and pepper, until deliciously tender and sweet –no need for anything fancy, they’re gorgeous just as they are.
Did you know?
Asparagus takes 3 years from seed to harvest. Once, they get going, asparagus plants can be cropped each spring for 15 years or more, but the spears in the 1st year start out the diameter of a pencil.
Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus a staple in many kitchens, not just for its flavour, but also for its impressive nutritional profile. Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate, while remaining very low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet. It contains a type of fibre called inulin, which acts as a pre-biotic and helps nourish beneficial gut bacteria.
Asparagus is loaded with antioxidants like glutathione, which help protect cells from damage and support detoxification. With its high levels of folate and potassium, asparagus can contribute to maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. It has natural diuretic properties which can help the body eliminate excess salt and fluid, which may reduce bloating and support kidney function.
How to Cook Asparagus
Cooking asparagus is quick and simple, here are a few tips can make all the difference:
The base of each spear can be tough so snap or cut off the woody ends before cooking. Asparagus cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it mushy and dull in colour, so aim for tender-crisp.
Choose Your Method
Roasting: Brings out a nutty, slightly sweet flavour.
Steaming: Keeps it light and fresh.
Grilling: Adds a smoky depth.
Sautéing: Quick and perfect for weeknight meals.
There is no need to over-season. Olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and garlic are all you need to enhance its natural flavour.
Asparagus has many versatile uses, add them to pasta, risottos, omelettes, salads, or serve it as a simple side dish. We have included below a very simple asparagus recipe that can be used as a side or an excellent snack on a sunny, spring day.
Simple Lemon Garlic Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
1 bunch of asparagus
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
Zest and juice of ½ lemon
Salt and pepper
Parmesan (Optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Trim the asparagus and add to the pan. Sauté for 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add lemon zest and juice, then season with salt and pepper.
Remove from heat.
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan complements them lemon perfectly.
