Asparagus comes in a variety of colours including green, white and purple. Although not as common in North America purple has some unique properties;
- Purple asparagus has a higher sugar content than green asparagus; resulting in a slightly
sweeter, nuttier flavour. - It has a less fibrous texture than green and white asparagus.
- Purple asparagus has lower levels of potassium, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
- It contains the antioxidant anthocyanin.
- Anthocyanins may prevent inflammation, cancer, and heart disease, as well as benefit memory and brain health.
- Purple asparagus may lose their unique colour when exposed to heat.
- Grill or blanch them quickly to preserve the purple colour. Or shave them and eat raw in a salad.
