ROASTED WHITE ASPARAGUS

Golden crisp asparagus

I think the best way to introduce asparagus into your kitchen is by roasting it - the reason being it has a nice toasty crunch to it. I have tried roasting both - green and white asparagus and they both came out perfect ! There are some minute differences between these 2 varieties. My observation is green asparagus is thinner and more tender than the white one, that way it takes little less time for roasting. Taste wise, white asparagus has a slighter mellow taste than the green one. 

But my suggestion is to try both of them - white asparagus is not common and is considered a delicacy in some European countries. There is a very peculiar method of growing the white asparagus - what I read was it is covered with plastic bags or dirt to prevent direct sun's rays, which block the formation of chlorophyll thus preventing the asparagus from turning green.

This is a very easy recipe using common ingredients available in daily household. You will need the following ingredients :-

1 pound white asparagus
2-3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper 
1/8 tsp dried parsley (optional)

Process :-

1.  Preheat oven to 400 F.

2.  Break off tough ends of asparagus - peel them if they are thick. Wash and rinse carefully leaving no dirt/sand on it.

Asparagus ready to go in the oven

3.  Place the asparagus on a baking sheet - drizzle olive oil, salt, black pepper and parsley (if desired), toss and coat them evenly. Arrange neatly in a single layer and roast  for 25 mins. till crisp from outside but tender from the inside.

Note :-  If using green asparagus, roast for about 15-20 mins. keeping a watchful eye.