How to Peel Asparagus

Most recipes have you break off the tough or woody ends of asparagus spears. It's a quick, easy way to trim asparagus. With a tiny bit more effort, however, you can eat most of the stalk and have much more elegant looking asparagus.

You do, however, need to start with fresh asparagus. Fresh asparagus is less dried out and more tender than older asparagus – look for firm spears with fresh-cut-looking ends and tight, compact heads.