Oven Roasted Asparagus

Today is the first day of spring. And no other vegetable speaks spring like asparagus.  This is its peak season and I love to enjoy every bit of it. Asparagus has always been a delicacy. It looks so pretty and delicate, cooks and tastes great. It is both succulent and tender. This low calorie vegetable is packed with healthy nutrients.

• Packed with anti-oxidants – Asparagus is among the top fruits and vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell damaging radicals. It is rich in a detoxifying compound, Glutathione that breaks down carcinogens.
• Rich in fiber – Asparagus is in rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber supporting the digestive tract. It is also rich in a nutrient called Inulin, which supports certain types of bacteria in the digestive tract that increase nutrient absorption.
• Rich in essential nutrients – It is high in folic acid and B vitamins. B vitamins play a key role in sugar and starch metabolism.
• Natural diuretic – It contains high level certain amino acids which serves as a natural diuretic. Increased urination helps release toxic fluids and excess salts.

To preserve all these healthy rich nutrients, right cooking methods are very important. Roasting, grilling and stir-frying are quick and water-less cooking methods and preserve most of the nutrition.

I like to roast or grill my asparagus and enjoy it on the side of just about anything; from breakfast eggs to lunch pasta to dinner sandwich or soup. Or even alone as a snack. It cooks very quickly and has great bite and crunch. Top it with some hearty spices and grated Parmesan. Gourmet food heaven in your mouth!

Recipe
1 lb fresh asparagus
1 tsp good olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
1 Tbsp Parmesan, grated

• Preheat oven at 400 deg
• Wash and pat dry asparagus. Cut tough ends. Or buy the bunch from store that already has ends cut.
• Place on a baking sheet in a single layer and drizzle olive oil. Top with salt and pepper.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 mins.
• Take out of the oven and garnish with grated Parmesan.