Roasted Asparagus

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About Asparagus

  • 2,000 year history of medicinal properties, specifically in Ayurvedic medicine
  • Often thought of as a luxury vegetable
  • Green in color, can also be found in white and purple

Nutrient content

Excellent source of:

  • Vitamin K
  • Folate
  • Copper
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin B2
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin E
  • Dietary fiber
  • Manganese
  • Phosphorus
  • Niacin
  • Potassium
  • Choline
  • Vitamin A
  • Zinc
  • Iron
  • Protein
  • Vitamin B6
  • Pantothenic acid
  • Magnesium
  • Calcium
  • Phytonutrients

Health Benefits    

  • Anti-inflammatory and Anti-oxidant Benefits
  • Digestive Support 
  • Heart Health
  • Blood Sugar Regulation

Selection and Storage  

  • Asparagus stalks should be rounded.  Look for firm, thin stems with deep green or purplish closed tips.  Cut ends should not be too woody.
  • Store in refrigerator with ends wrapped in damp paper towel.  Use asparagus within a day or two after purchasing for best flavor and texture.

Note:  Asparagus contains naturally-occurring substances called purines.  Purines can be broken down to form uric acid.  Excess accumulation of purines in the body can lead to excess accumulation of uric acid.  In some individuals (those with gout and kidney stones from uric acid), excessive intake of these substances can cause health problems. 

Here’s a delicious and easy way to cook asparagus!

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs asparagus
  • Olive oil (or your favorite healthy oil)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. 

Break off the bottom parts of the asparagus (where they start getting tough; these parts will not be edible).  Place the asparagus on a baking sheet, drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle them with salt and pepper, and then toss them to make sure they are all well covered.  Spread the asparagus in a single layer and roast until they are tender and crisp (about 20-25 minutes).  When done, sprinkle with the lemon zest and squeeze some lemon juice (1/4 of a lemon is a good amount but you can do as much as you would like). Very carefully toss them so they are well covered.  Enjoy!

I truly hope you enjoy this recipe and that it helps you live a healthier life.  I would absolutely love to hear from you, so please leave a comment below and let me know what you think.  If you enjoyed this post, share it with your friends and family!

Lots of love,

Judith

This year we have launched an exciting collaboration with Soul Food Salon.  Each week, we feature a delicious, seasonal, and nutritious ingredient.  We not only tell you a bit about it and all of the nutrition it represents, but also we provide you with a recipe so you can cook it at home.  Please share pictures of your meals on Instagram using the hashtag #SoulFoodSalon.  We can’t wait to learn and cook with you!