Asparagus

Asparagus is one of my favorite things about springtime.

The sprouts begin to pop in April or as soil temperatures’ reach 50 degrees

and lasts until the stems become larger and woody. It is a perennial and may

live for 15 years or more.

I planted some one year old plants in my garden this summer.

In the upcoming spring I should have a nice harvest.

During harvest time the spears are picked every 2 to 4 days. Great for the garden,

it grows in most any type of soil. Starting the vegetable from seed can make you wait

so you’re better off to buy a one year old plant. It still may take a year or two before you have a good harvest.

I love it fresh and really don’t care for the canned version. It’s over cooked and I like it still a little crispy. Steaming or in the microwave are the best ways to cook it in my experience. It’s also delicious on the grill. Have you ever tried it pickled?

There are so many ways to enjoy it besides just a side dish. Add it to a salad or soup. Toss it into a stir-fry with poultry or sea food is a favorite. Asparagus works very well with Beef and Lamb too.

> My favorite: Asparagus on Toast.

Asparagus is loaded with fiber, minerals and vitamins. It’s low in calories and fat and high in antioxidants.

This food is highly recommended to pregnant women.

Feel tired? Eat some Asparagus. Containing substances that reduce ammonia levels in the body, it’s a natural pick-me-up.

Found to lower uric acid levels which is helpful for those experiencing gout.

There are positive effects for those with Heart Disease and Alzheimer’s.

Diabetics can benefit because it has Chromium. Chromium assists the body in metabolizing insulin.

Also shows a positive effect on high blood pressure.

Containing 202 mg. of Potassium in a 3 oz. serving, getting plenty of Potassium helps in preventing the loss of calcium which affects many women. Ladies eat your asparagus.

Washing the face with the water from steaming, microwaving or boiling can improve your completion.

We have a local market here in my area. Widely grown around here I find it in 10 lb. bags for just over a $1 a pound. It usually doesn’t last long but I have frozen some for short periods. With just a quick blanch it has done well for me.