How does America eat? Seems our favorite takeout entree is pizza, not so surprising. However, Chinese or other Asian food is a pretty close second.

A new favorite comfort food emerges  ice cream, beating out last year’s top choice, pasta.

Such tasty revelations abound, some expected, some not, among results from the 2002 reader survey published in the March issue of Bon Appetit magazine.

Dieters might be well advised not to pursue these findings. The details can make you feel dangerously hungry, unless you keep to something as healthy as America’s favorite vegetable: Asparagus reigns here, with tomato placing second.

The dessert of choice is a sophisticated creme brulee; chocolate chip is the preferred cookie.

Getting active: Home chefs most like to cook regional Italian and traditional American. Favorite casual dish to make is chicken, with pasta close behind; roast beef or pork is the top choice for special-occasion entertaining.