Purple Asparagus

Purple asparagus has a striking dark purple color and has a similar shape to green and white asparagus but it’s a different variety. While it is not very well known, it has a subtly distinct flavor, contains about 20% more sugar than other varieties, and it can be slightly less fibrous. The purple color will blanch when cooked unless the color is “locked in” by marinating briefly with lemon juice or vinegar. Crystal Valley offers purple asparagus during a limited season from Mexico and the United States.

Tips for Selection

Choose purple asparagus that has firm, crisp stalks with tight, brightly colored tips. Avoid wilted stalks.

How to Store

Wrap purple asparagus in a damp paper towel and refrigerate.

Health Benefits

• Excellent Source of vitamin C
• Good source of vitamin A
• Free of fat, sodium, cholesterol
• Low in calories