Grub Street reports that farm-fresh asparagus has been spotted at New York City’s Union Square Greenmarket (the ne plus ultra of American farmer’s markets). Asparagus, along with morels and ramps, is part of the holy trinity of spring produce. Asparagus means that spring has sprung! White shoes may be worn!* Winter coats may be put in storage! A young man’s fancy may turn lightly to thoughts of love!
We strongly recommend taking advantage of this seasonal bounty as soon as humanly possible. Pick up some asparagus on your way home from work and call a few friends to come over for dinner, Iron-Chef-themed-ingredient-style. Prepare a stunningly easy asparagus feast: a velvety asparagus soup, asparagus risotto and asparagus simply dressed with gremolata butter. You don’t have to make an asparagus dessert, but if you figure one out, let us know and we will definitely give you a shoutout. You’ll enjoy your meal so much, you won’t even mind asparagus’ most noted side effect.
*We know, we know. It’s Memorial Day that heralds the beginning of white-shoe season. What can we say? We like to live dangerously.
Local Asparagus Finally Shows Up, With Sorrel In Tow [Grub Street]
Asparagus Soup with Lemon Creme Fraiche [Epicurious]
Asparagus Risotto [Epicurious]
Asparagus with Gremolata Butter [Epicurious]
