Ideally, asparagus is best eaten the same day that you buy it, but that isn't always possible. In that case, it's best to store it in the fridge. There are a few different methods you can use to extend the life of your asparagus;

• Trim off the woody ends from your asparagus, then place them cut side down into a jar filled with about an inch of water (much like you would with fresh cut flowers), then place in the fridge.
• Trim the ends off then wrap the ends in a damp towel and store in the vegetable crisper in your refrigerator.

• Freezing: blanch the trimmed asparagus spears in boiling water for 2-4 minutes (depending on the thickness of the spears. Remove from the boiling water and place in a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking. Once cooled, drain and dry the asparagus, then place on a baking tray in a single layer and freeze for a few hours until frozen solid. Store in a freezer bag for up to 1 year.
• Pickling: pickled asparagus makes a delightfully crunchy snack or accompaniment to a charcuterie board or even a cocktail garnish (hello, Bloody Marys!). As with any pickle, be sure to use a vinegar with 5% acidity or greater to ensure food safety.
• Canning: yes, you can technically can asparagus, but the processing results in some sad, mushy spears. If that's your thing, then go for it!

There are countless ways to cook asparagus, but it will always be at it's best when it retains some of it's natural snap, so don't overcook it! You'll also want to be sure to trim off any woody portions towards the end of the spear, as these can be tough to chew.

Here are some of the best cooking methods for asparagus:

• Roasting: Roasting asparagus in the oven is a simple and delicious way to bring out its natural sweetness and crispiness. You can toss the asparagus with some oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices, and then spread them on a baking sheet. Roast them at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly charred.
• Grilling: Grilling asparagus on a barbecue or a grill pan is another great way to enhance its smoky and nutty flavor. You can marinate the asparagus with some oil, vinegar, garlic, and seasonings, and then grill them over medium-high heat for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally. You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese or balsamic vinegar for a finishing touch.
• Steaming: Steaming asparagus is a quick and easy way to cook it without losing its nutrients and color. You can use a steamer basket or a microwave-safe dish with some water to steam the asparagus for about 5 minutes, or until they are bright green and crisp-tender.
• Sauté/Stir Fry: Quickly sautéing some asparagus in oil or butter and any aromatics of your choosing for about 10 minutes is a great way to get a healthy side dish on the table without a lot of fuss. Asparagus is also a great addition to a stir fry, which yields a delightfully crispy texture.

• Dairy products: Asparagus goes well with cheese, butter, cream, and other dairy products. Cheese, especially parmesan, adds a salty and nutty contrast to the asparagus. Butter and cream make the asparagus more rich and smooth. You can also try sauces that contain dairy products, such as hollandaise, béchamel, or alfredo.
• Eggs: Eggs are another classic pairing for asparagus. They have a similar grassy and sulphurous note that complements the asparagus. You can make dishes such as asparagus frittata, asparagus quiche, or asparagus omelet. You can also top your asparagus with a poached egg or scrambled eggs. For a more luxurious touch, you can add some truffle to your eggs and asparagus.
• Lemon and other citrus: Lemon and other citrus fruits add a bright and refreshing flavor to the asparagus. They also help to balance the bitterness of the asparagus and enhance its natural sweetness. You can squeeze some lemon juice over your cooked asparagus, or make a lemon vinaigrette for your asparagus salad. You can also try other citrus fruits, such as orange, grapefruit, or lime.
• Garlic: Garlic is a simple but effective way to add more flavor to your asparagus. It has a pungent and aromatic taste that goes well with the mildness of the asparagus. You can sauté your asparagus with some garlic and oil, or roast your asparagus with some garlic cloves. You can also make a garlic aioli or garlic butter sauce for your asparagus.
• Tarragon: Tarragon is an herb that has a licorice-like flavor that pairs nicely with the asparagus. It also has a slight lemony note that enhances the freshness of the asparagus. You can sprinkle some chopped tarragon over your cooked asparagus, or make a tarragon cream sauce for your asparagus.
• Wines: Asparagus can be tricky to pair with wine, because it has a high level of chlorophyll and other acidic compounds that can make wines taste metallic or harsh1. However, there are some wines that can work well with asparagus, depending on how it is cooked and what other ingredients are served with it. Consider pairing it with a crisp and refreshing white, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, or an unoaked Chardonnay, which can match the freshness and greenness of asparagus, and also cut through the bitterness and acidity.