HOW TO COOK ASPARAGUS EASY RECIPES

Steps:

• Snap the woody ends off the asparagus stalks and tip them into a saucepan with the stock. Put on a low heat to very gently simmer. Meanwhile, cut off the tips of the asparagus, add to the stock for exactly 1 min. Scoop out with a slotted spoon and set aside. Finely slice the rest of the stalks into rounds.
• Heat the oil and half the butter in a heavy, wide pan. Cook the onions gently for 5 mins until soft, stirring often. Add the chopped asparagus stalks and cook for 2 mins more. Add the rice and continously stir for a few minutes until it turns semi-transparent and makes a hissing sound.
• Stir in the wine, if using – it will evaporate almost immediately. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the stock, a ladleful at a time, stirring between each addition until it is absorbed, about 15 mins.
• Try the rice – it should feel just cooked with a slight bite to it. Stir in the asparagus tips and any last dregs of stock and cook for 1 or 2 mins more. Remove from the heat and top with the remaining butter and most of the parmesan. Season generously, cover and leave for a few minutes to settle.
• Give the risotto a thorough stir to incorporate the butter and cheese and serve straight away with the remaining parmesan for sprinkling over.

Steps:

• Wash the asparagus and break off and discard the tough bottom ends of the stalks.
• Put the asparagus and water in a microwave-safe dish, cover and cook on High for 3 minutes.
• If the asparagus still seems raw after you microwaved it, don't be tempted to microwave it more - it will continue cooking for several minutes on its own after you take it out. Asparagus should still be green and crispy after it's cooked, otherwise it will turn overcooked and mushy.
• Sprinkle cooked asparagus with salt and pepper to taste. You can also toss it in a little Italian dressing - it goes really well with asparagus!