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Locally grown asparagus is now in season! These tender green spears are a sure sign that spring has arrived, and they're one of the easiest ways to add something fresh and flavourful to your meals. Right now, South African farms are producing their finest crop, making this the perfect time to show some love for homegrown produce. Whether you're reaching for asparagus tips, mini spears or full-length spears, there's more than one way to enjoy this versatile veg at its seasonal best. From how it's grown locally to the best ways to cook it, here's everything you need to know about asparagus – plus two flavour-packed recipes to try this season.

1. When is asparagus in season?

Asparagus is a true spring crop, and it's only around for a limited stretch – from August to early summer. If you see it on shelf, now’s the time to add it to your basket. Look out for bright green spears with firm tips – a sign that they’ve been freshly harvested and carefully packed.

2. How is asparagus grown?

Woolworths' asparagus is grown locally in Limpopo and the Free State, where the climate and soil are ideal for producing sweet, tender spears. Asparagus is a perennial crop, planted in winter and harvested in season during spring once the young shoots emerge.

Woolworths supports regenerative farming through its Farming for the Future initiative, a comprehensive programme that partners with growers to implement cutting-edge regenerative practices. This initiative focuses on building soil carbon, reducing chemical inputs, promoting beneficial insects and wildlife habitats, and developing climate-resilient farming systems. Local farmers receive training and support to transition to methods that not only protect the environment but also improve crop quality and farm profitability over time. The programme emphasises water-smart irrigation techniques and natural pest management, ensuring that each asparagus spear is grown with both environmental stewardship and future food security in mind.

And thanks to a carefully maintained cold chain, the asparagus stays crisp and fresh from the moment it's picked to when it reaches your plate.

3. How do I prep and cook asparagus?

Start by trimming the woody ends, approximately 1-2 cm from the base. There’s no need to peel thin or medium spears. Simply rinse, trim, and you’re ready to cook. Here are a few easy methods:

• Steam or blanch: 2-3 minutes or until just tender, then immediately transfer to ice-cold water to lock in the bright green colour and retain crunch.
• Grill or braai: Toss spears in olive oil and place on a hot grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly charred with tender tips and a bit of bite.
• Roast: Drizzle with oil and roast in a preheated oven at 220°C for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crisp on the edges. You can also air-fry them at 200°C for 6-8 minutes for a quick, crispy result.
• Shave raw: Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin ribbons, peeling from tip to base.

4. What does asparagus pair well with?

Asparagus loves bold, salty, zesty flavours. Think lemon, garlic, butter, hard cheeses, herbs, vinaigrettes, nuts, and even eggs. Its earthy, slightly grassy flavour makes it a great base for everything from simple side dishes to elegant brunch plates.

5. What can I make with asparagus?

Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that works beautifully in both fresh and cooked dishes. To show you how easy it is to enjoy, here are two simple recipes that bring out the best of its flavour and texture:

Charred mini asparagus salad 

This salad pairs the natural crispness of mini asparagus with crunchy, home-made croutons and soft, jammy eggs. The asparagus is lightly charred for added flavour, then tossed with a tangy mustard dressing and a creamy garlic-and-herb soft cheese for a fresh yet satisfying dish.

charred asparagus salad recipe

Asian-inspired pickled asparagus tips

For a light and refreshing option, try this quick-pickled asparagus salad. Tender asparagus tips and baby carrots are soaked in a delicate Asian-style pickle, then served with creamy avocado, edamame beans, and spring onions for a vibrant, summery salad.

pickled asparagus

Photography and videography: Sadiqah Assur-Ismail
Production: Marcelle van Rooyen§
Food assistant: Bianca Jones

more asparagus recipes

Woolworths’ locally grown asparagus is currently in season and available in spears, tips and mini asparagus for a limited time. Whether you grill, roast or pickle it, this vibrant veg is a must while it’s at its freshest. Look out for it in the produce aisle and enjoy it all season long.  Woolworths' asparagus is a true spring treasure and now at its seasonal peak. Thanks to Woolworths' unbroken cold chain and commitment to regenerative farming practices, you can savour this local favourite knowing it's fresh, flavourful, and responsibly grown.

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