How to choose asparagus

Like peas, sweetcorn and many other vegetables, the sugars in asparagus start to turn to starch as soon as it's picked.

Ideally it should be eaten the same day, but failing that look for the following signs of freshness:

Firm, not bendy or rubbery spears

Smooth, not ridged, stalks

Tightly packed tips, not starting to open out

No slimy patches

Cut ends that look wrinkled or dried out

Keep your asparagus refrigerated