Could asparagus be the most underrated veggie? A culinary expert shares creative ways to elevate your dishes

Asparagus could be the real underdog veggie! Despite its versatility, it remains an underrated choice, overshadowed by more popular greens like broccoli, spinach, and Brussels sprouts. And now, asparagus is in season, making it the perfect time to give it a try!

There are many unique ways to make use of asparagus, HelloFresh‘s Senior Recipe Development Manager, Mimi Morley says,

“Asparagus mightn’t be love at first bite for some, but that’s why I feel it’s often overlooked. There are tons of possibilities beyond the typical roasting of asparagus. Its distinctive, subtle buttery sweetness and nutty undertones can really add an exceptional and unique flavour to many dishes – I personally love finding new ways to enjoy asparagus!”

Mimi and the team at HelloFresh have put together four simple and creative ways to use asparagus at home:

Asparagus Pesto

Instead of the traditional basil pesto, try making a pesto sauce with asparagus! You can use the entire asparagus, including the ends, to ensure there’s no waste. Simply blanch the asparagus spears and ends, then blend them with garlic, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil to create a delicious pesto that can be used as a pasta sauce or dip.

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus

Trim off around an inch of the pale/white stem and wrap fresh asparagus spears with bacon and bake in the oven until the bacon is crispy and the asparagus is tender (approx. 22-25 mins). Perfect for a simple and delicious snack or side dish.

To reduce waste, utilise the trimmed ends by simmering them in broth until tender, then blend with cream, garlic, and seasonings for a creamy asparagus soup to accompany the dish.

Asparagus Cheese Toasty

Elevate your cheese toasty game by adding roasted asparagus to the sandwich. Layer roasted asparagus and your favourite cheese between two slices of bread, and grill until the cheese is melted and gooey.

Make use of the ends by chopping them finely and incorporating them into a homemade aioli or mayo to spread on the bread before grilling.

Asparagus & Salmon Quinoa Bowl

Cook quinoa according to package directions and top with roasted asparagus, smoked salmon, avocado, and a lemon-dill vinaigrette for a super refreshing and healthy lunch.  Incorporate the ends by finely chopping them and infusing them into the lemon-dill vinaigrette for added flavour and texture.

For more delicious asparagus recipes and meal ideas, visit HelloFresh.