One of the first foods that signals the beginning of spring is fresh asparagus. As spring is the time of new beginning, i enjoy utilizing this item as a simple snack of either just sauteed as a side dish, or simply incorporated into my eggs. Here are some of the amazing health benefits of this simple super food ingredient.

 

 

 

A basic asparagus puree consists of the spears which are cooked until tender and then blended together with the cooking water. It’s nutritional value is the same as plain asparagus, meaning the puree is loaded with vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin K, A and B, and iron.

 

The amazing asparagus is an excellent source of vitamin K, with only five spears providing 35% of the recommended daily intake. Vitamin K is crucial for healthy bones. I recommend this ingredient for better bone health. It also contains high levels of antioxidants which neutralize the free radicals in your body before they harm healthy cells, causing chronic illness. Asparagus contains a plant based substance called flavonoids which help to fight inflammation. So, there is no excuse for getting your greens in with all these health benefits of this super food. The amazing asparagus!!

 

 

 

Prep time: 20 minutes

Total cooking time: 55 minutes

Serves 4-6

 

 

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds asparagus spears

1 ounce unsalted butter, or olive oil

32 ounce vegetable stock

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tsp celery salt

1 cup light cream

 

 

INSTRUCTIONS:

Break off the woody ends from the asparagus and trim off the tips. Blanch tips in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, refresh in cold water and set aside. Chop the asparagus stems into large pieces.

Melt the butter in a large saucepan and cook the onions for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, or until soft and golden. Add the chopped asparagus stems and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add the stock, basil and celery salt. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

Check that the asparagus is well cooked and soft. If not, simmer another 10 minutes. Set aside and allow to cool slightly.

Pour into the food processor and process in batches until smooth. Then sieve into a clean pan. Return to heat, pour in cream and gently reheat. Do not allow to boil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the asparagus tips, for garnish. Serve immediately.

 

 

 

 

NUTRITIONAL VALUE: (per serve) Protein 6g; Fat 22g; Carbohydrates 5g; Fiber 3g; Cholesterol 70mg, Calories 237.

 

 

 

 

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