How to Store Asparagus (so it stays fresh!)

Unsure how to to store asparagus? Here are my tried-and-true tips for keeping asparagus fresh and crisp for days and days!

Hello asparagus season! The snow has melted here in Vermont, the daffodils are blooming, and the shelves at the local market are bursting with bundles of fresh asparagus.

Asparagus is a lovely bright veggie that simply tastes like spring! Bright and crisp, it is delicious as a simple side dish, in risotto, frittatas, or in so many other ways.

Whenever I talk about a particular veggie that I am loving on, my emails and DMs on Instagram become filled with people asking how to properly store it. And asparagus is no different! So, if you are an asparagus lover who wants to know how to properly store it so it stays crisp and fresh until you can enjoy it, I’ve got you covered with my tried-and-true, super simple method for storing asparagus.

How to keep asparagus fresh longer

Truth be told, asparagus is best enjoyed fresh. Like, within a few days of it being picked. However, depending on when you are buying your asparagus and/or where you live…that is not always an option.

So, how do you keep it fresh and crisp? Simple. By treating it like the flower it is (because, yeah, it is just an edible flower)! Let me break it down for you.

What you’ll need

• A wide mouth mason jar or vase
• scissors or a sharp knife
• water
• a reusable bag or plastic bag

Step 1: Trim the tips off of your asparagus stalks.

Step 2: Add about an inch of water to your jar or vase.

Step 3: Stand your asparagus stalks up in your jar with the water.

The water will hydrate the asparagus and keep the stalks crisp. Skipping this could result in floppy, limp asparagus when you are ready to cook it.

Step 4: Cover the top of the asparagus stalks with the bag.

This will help the ends stay fresh and prevent them from drying out.

Should asparagus be refrigerated?

Yep. This will help it stay fresh and crisp longer.

The only time you should consider storing it on your counter is if you plan to enjoy it that day. And even then, I would recommend placing the asparagus stalks in a jar of water.

How long can you store fresh asparagus in the fridge?

With this method, I find that my asparagus stay fresh and crisp for 3-5 days. Sometime longer!

How do I know if asparagus has gone bad?

It will smell, for one. Also, look at the tips of your asparagus. If they are very dark green and mushy to the touch, it is time for that asparagus to hit the compost.

Does asparagus need to be stored in an air-tight container?

Some people will wrap their fresh asparagus in a wet cloth or paper towel and then store in an air-tight container in the fridge. This method does help lock moisture in somewhat, but I find the jar method to do a better job and keep asparagus fresher longer.

Does asparagus need to be washed before cooking?

Yes. All produce should be washed before being consumed or cooked.

A quick rinse is all that is needed or you could use a store bought or homemade fruit & veggie wash for a more thorough cleaning.

Other posts you might find helpful

If this how-to was helpful in easing your kitchen stress, here are some other Natural Nurturer posts that might inspire you!

• Homemade Fruit & Veggie Wash
• How To Cut a Bell Pepper…to minimize waste!
• How To Store Spinach (so it stays fresh all week!)
• How to cook butternut squash (6 ways!)
• How To Store Cabbage (Whole, Cut, or Shredded)
• How to Cut and Cook A Spaghetti Squash