We’re extremely excited to announce that locally grown asparagus has arrived! Coming from our friend and local farmer Rich Eshleman, these beautiful green or purple tipped vegetables are something special.

Located in Clyde, Ohio, Eshleman Fruit Farm has become a destination spot for many, as their high-quality produce has developed a glowing reputation. Rich’s interest in farming started at a young age and he dabbled with his first peach orchard on his parent’s land while pursuing his degree in horticulture. After five and a half years in the U.S. Army, Rich and his late wife Betty established Eshleman Fruit Farm in 1977. Today, Rich farms alongside his son, Jeffrey.

These delicious and nutritious stalks are such an easy way to spruce up any meal and can be enjoyed raw, steamed, sautéed, stir-fried, or mixed with vegetables, beans, poultry, or seafood. There’s also nothing better than the simple pleasure of throwing a handful of stalks on the grill with some local shiitake mushrooms—it’s a must-eat local spring treat. Another way to devour these delicious stalks is to steam and serve with citrus hollandaise sauce, melted butter, Pecorino Romano, or shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano. Check out 7 ways to enjoy this seasonal veggie in the recipes below!

1. Shaved Asparagus Salad

2. Asparagus Fries + Garlic Aioli

3. Spring Asparagus Sauté

4. Grilled Veggie Platter

5. Asparagus with Walnut Chive Vinaigrette

6. Spring Pea, Asparagus, & Pecorino Salad

7. Cold Asparagus with Hot Crab Sauce