How to trim asparagus for cooking?

asparagus has a narrow end and a wider end. Trimming the ends removes the part that can potentially cause an allergic reaction. To trim the ends, first snap the stalks, then snap off the remaining thin end of the stalk with your hands. Using a small paring knife, scrape off the remaining thin end of the stalk.

How to cut asparagus for pasta?

For the most tender and flavorful asparagus cut off the ends and discard. Then, snap off the woody portion underneath the point where the stalk begins to branch. The thinner the stalks, the better they will cook. Use a smallish, sharp knife and cut the spears as close to the end of the bunch as possible, being careful not to cut the tips off.

How to trim asparagus for pickling?

When it comes to pickling asparagus, you need to know how to cut it. I like to cut off an inch or two of the ends, leaving the thicker part of the stalks. You can also cut off the ends of thick stalks, but the more you do that, the more raw ends you get in your jar. Pickling also works well with thinner asparagus.

How to trim asparagus for juicing?

To trim asparagus for juicing, simply cut off the ends at an angle about 1-2 inches from the bottom. Leave the stalks about 2-3 inches long. Cut off the thickest part of the stalks, leaving the thinner ends.

How to trim asparagus for roasting?

To prevent the ends of asparagus from turning black when you roast them, cut them off at a 45-degree angle. Using a sharp kitchen knife, cut the stalks lengthwise, just until you reach the tender part. You don’t want to cut the stalks completely in half.