Alternative to asparagus

[loonytoonz]

I've seen quite a few recipes throughout the winter that have asparagus as a main ingredient, and obviously that's out of season.

Some of the dishes look really lovely and so I was wondering if you can substitute asparagus for something else?
I guess some dishes need the same kind of texture, and some need the flavour...

Any suggestions for substitutes?

[Rachel]

Long-stemmed broccoli such as Tenderstem is very nice in many asparagus recipes - stir fries, tartlets and so on. Also, dipped straight into Hollandaise (or is that just me?) Plus, it cooks in a similar amount of time, so you don't need to alter the recipe too much. Give it a go!

[Rhys]

I have to say, I do buy asparagus out of season now and then - even though it isn't as nice as the British asparagus. It's still a treat and there are some recipes where you really can't substitute. You can get white asparagus in jars too, which is lovely in salads or for deli platters.

[Karen]

I was going to say tenderstem broccoli too but I see someone else has thought of that

[Cheese on Toast]

They might not be similar in shape but what about broad beans? I made an asparagus risotto the other day but used broad beans instead. Gave the same earthy flavour and offered a similar 'bite'...?

[smith009]

I was going to say i too, It come's to my mind first, may be because broccoli is really good that's why it comes first.

[Rachel_murray]

As Rachel said, there is the long stemmed brocolli, you can get green and purple ones.
What about things like cauliflower?