Seems like asparagus would have a lot of new life symbolism even though it's cylindrical rather than spherical, and it's green instead of red.

I find that asparagus is quite tasty if it's blanched, and then marinated in sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, and a little soy sauce. (Served at room temperature.) You want the spears to be not more than a half inch in diameter for this dish.

Have a good New Year.