Food & Cooking Recipes Dinner Recipes Dinner Side Dishes Blanched Asparagus 2.9 (14) 1 Review By Martha Stewart Martha Stewart Martha Stewart is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and lifestyle expert who has taught millions of people through generations the joy of entertaining, cooking, gardening, collecting, crafting, and home renovating via her eponymous magazine, Martha Stewart Living, Emmy-winning television shows, and 99 books (and counting). Based in Katonah, N.Y., where she helms her 156-acre Bedford Farm, Martha is America's first self-made female billionaire. Editorial Guidelines Updated on February 17, 2021 Rate PRINT Share Trending Videos Close this video player Plunge asparagus into rapidly boiling water, then refresh in ice water to keep them crisp-tender and bright green. Ingredients 1 ½ pounds medium-thick asparagus 8 cups water 2 tablespoons coarse salt Directions Prepare 1 1/2 pounds medium-thick asparagus (see Rinse and Snap). Have a large bowl of ice water ready. In a large saucepan, bring 8 cups water to a boil. Season with 2 tablespoons coarse salt, and add asparagus; boil until tender, 3 to 4 minutes (depending on thickness). Remove with tongs, or drain in a colander, and immediately transfer to ice water for 1 minute to stop the cooking process. Drain; refrigerate until completely chilled. Originally appeared: Everyday Food, April 2006 Rate It PRINT