PICK THE GREENEST. Select bright green asparagus with compact, firm tips and smooth, tender skin. Tenderness relates to color. The greener the better.

SELECT A PACK SIZE. Asparagus is packed bunched or loose in cartons or crates that range in weight from 11 to 30 pounds.

KEEP FRESH ASPARAGUS COOL AND MOIST. Use fresh asparagus within 14 days of the pack date. If the tips look slightly wilted, refresh by soaking in cold water before preparation.

HANDLE AND COOK WITH A LIGHT TOUCH. Trim the butt ends, if necessary. Cook until barely fork tender. Blanching in salted water at the beginning of the shift helps maintain product quality and color, plus saves time during rush periods.

KNOW THAT SIZE MATTERS. Growers offer a range of sizes that fit every application, be it jumbo, extra large, large or standard.

For more information visit: www.calasparagus.com