1 Limp asparagus can be refreshed by trimming off the ends of the stalks and placing it stalk side down into a glass holding 1 1/2 to 2 inches of cold water, place a plastic bag over the tops and then store in the refrigerator for approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.2  Avoid cooking asparagus in an iron pot.ome recipes may call for cut asparagus. The spears should be cut at a diagonal in 1 and 2 inch pieces, depending on what the recipe calls for. Several spears can be cut at one time. Cutting the spears into pieces will expose the most flesh and help to ensure even cooking, which may be critical for some recipes.