Saturday, April 23, 2011

Health Benefits of Asparagus


Asparagus is in season and is full of health benefits.  We picked some up for our Easter celebration, there is something so Spring-y about it.  I love the bright green and it's fun to eat something in the form of spears. It's an old crop, enjoyed by Romans, Greeks and Egyptians over 2000 years ago. 

Amongst the virtues of asparagus are its nutritional content and ability to reduce inflammation.  Asparagus is good for the digestive tract, and helps stabilize blood sugar.  It's high in B vitamins and is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, selenium, and beta carotene.  

I like to flash saute my asparagus with a little garlic and top with hemp seeds.  It's great on pasta or just plain by itself.  Be sure to use asparagus within 48 hours of purchase, as it has a high "respiration rate" and will perish faster than some other vegetables. 

Image Credit: Esteban Cavrico

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