Asparagus is a wonderfully quick vegetable to prepare. Lightly steaming or boiling brings out the fragrant flavour, which can be enjoyed simply covered in butter or dipped in Hollandaise sauce. For something a bit more special, why not try some of these delicious dishes that require very little time or effort but produce impressive results. Each recipe takes just a matter of minutes to prepare, with suggestions for everything from a casual lunch to a romantic dinner for two.

All major food retailers sell asparagus during the British season so just pop to your local high street and pick up a bundle. Alternatively it should be available in your greengrocer (but do check it’s British) or you can visit a farmshop, pick your own or mail order through.

For more information about local farmshops and mail order services across the UK visit www.british-asparagus.co.uk

Try as many of these recipes as you can before the season is over, our favourite is these simple, but tasty, barbequed asparagus.

Barbecued asparagus with parmesan and a lemon and mint butter

Forget soggy salad as a side dish at barbeques – try this easy but impressive recipe to really make the most of the alfresco event

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 bundles of British asparagus
• 2 tbsp olive or rapeseed oil
• 125g unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp mint leaves, finely chopped
• 50g parmesan shavings

Method

Trim the asparagus as necessary. Place on a baking sheet or in a bowl and toss with the oil, making sure all the asparagus is coated.

Season with sea salt and black pepper.

Put the asparagus on the grill rack of the barbecue and cook for approximately 2 minutes each side, until it is lightly charred.

Remove from the barbecue and divide between 4 serving plates

Melt the butter on a low heat.

Add the lemon juice and chopped mint leaves.

Pour over the asparagus, season with sea salt and black pepper and sprinkle with the parmesan shavings