Seasonal produce

Asparagus

This is one of our favourite vegetables as it is packed full of flavour whilst deliciously sweet and tender. Spring is the most glorious time for English asparagus and we only have two months of the year to fully appreciate its wonderful qualities.

English season

Mid - late April to mid June.

Origin

Middle East. The Persian word asparg meaning sprout.

Nutritional value

Asparagus is packed full of nutrients. It is high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fibre & vitamin B6, A & C.

Cooking tips

Cut or break off lower stalks, about 2 inches from the end. Cook fresh asparagus in a saucepan of boiling water for 4 – 6 minutes or until tender. Serve with butter and salt or simply on its own.

Our favourite recipe

For the perfect asparagus starter...

1. Steam the prepared asparagus for 2 minutes and refresh in cold water

2. Meanwhile make a lemon drizzle with 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil and a pinch of salt and pepper - Set aside

3. Wrap the cooked asparagus in parma ham and stuff with buffalo mozzarella and bake in a hot oven for 8 minutes

4. Take out of oven and serve with the lemon drizzle - simple but delicious!