Ed’s Produce: Asparagus 101

What are the most common types of asparagus?

Asparagus comes in several varieties, with green and white asparagus being the most common. Both green and white asparagus are highly versatile and offer unique flavor profiles. Green asparagus is the most widely consumed and is available throughout the year. It has a grassy flavor and tender texture, commonly used in pastas, stir-fries, and plenty more. Green asparagus is rich in vitamins B, C, and E, as well as potassium and calcium. This variety does not require peeling, and can be steamed, sauteed, or roasted. White asparagus has a slightly bitter flavor compared to green, so in order to reduce the bitterness, the outer layer is usually peeled off. White asparagus has a lower calorie count than green, and contains vitamins C, E, and K. It is commonly used in traditional European dishes, often boiled or steamed, and paired with hollandaise sauce or vinaigrettes. 

Asparagus Sizing

Asparagus sizing is categorized by the thickness of the spears, ranging from Extra Thin (Pencil) to Jumbo. Measuring by their diameter, extra thin spears are under 8mm, thin spears are 8-12mm, medium spears are 12-16mm, thick spears are 16-20mm, and jumbo are over 20mm wide. Medium asparagus is the most common size available and is suitable for roasting, grilling, or boiling. Thin spears are ideal for steaming and sauteing, while thicker stalks are better used primarily in roasting and grilling. 

Classes of Asparagus

Asparagus is categorized into classes based on physical qualities, such as size, shape, color and quality. Green asparagus is divided into three classes, which include Extra Class, Class I, and Class II. Extra Class is commonly known as Grade A, consisting of straight and uniform spears. These bright green spears are typically thicker in diameter (12-20mm) and the tips of the stalk are closed. Class I, or Grade B, consists of slightly curved stalks that have a medium diameter (10-16mm), but are still high quality, polished green produce. Class II, or Grade C, consists of curved stalks and may contain open tips and slightly variable color. White asparagus follows the same classification as green asparagus. Extra Class is the highest quality of white asparagus, with straight, uniformly white spears. These stalks are thick, often measuring over 16mm in diameter, and have no purple or green discoloration. Like green asparagus, Class I white asparagus is slightly curved, but is still presentable and high quality. Class II spears often have a slight green or purple tint and may be more curved. These are often thinner and not as uniform as the higher classes. 

What is offered at Ed’s Produce?

Green: Case 11lb — Thin, Medium, Large, Jumbo

• Split 2 Bunches - MEDIUM ONLY

White: Case 11lb — Seasonally Available

Purple: Case 11lb — Seasonally Available