White Asparagus for the Detox

It’s white asparagus season! Let’s all indulge in some healthy recipes for this week..

Do you need to eat constantly and entertain for dinner? Are red meats and rich foods a regular part of your dinner or dining habits?

Well exercise alone is good, but adding detox and healthy eating is even better. Layering your decadent eating lifestyle with meals rich in fibre, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals, is just what you need, to get your arteries and heart back in tip-top condition. And since it is White Asparagus season, you can incorporate that delicious delectable vege into your diet this week, for some amazing results!

Here’s a great pick me up recipe, or something you should eat after you’ve been having too much red meat or animal fat in your diet.

1 green capsicum/ 1 red capsicum
6 chopped up, grilled white & green asparagus
2 garlic cloves
1 onion
2 cups artichokes
6 cherry tomatoes
2 Tbsp fresh basil
Table spoons of olive oil
A dash of balsamic vinegar

Whole wheat pasta shells, cooked according to directions

Directions:

1. Coat large skillet with olive oil.
2. Saute onion and garlic until golden.
3. Add all cut-up vegetables.
4. Place over medium heat, 12 minutes or until tender.
5. Cook pasta.
6. Serve vegetables over pasta.
7. Add more olive oil, salt & pepper to taste
Also good cold the next day.

Nutrition of Asparagus contains no cholesterol and is low in sodium. Asparagus is an excellent source of:

Vitamin K
Vitamin B folate
Vitamin C
Vitamin A
Dietary fiber
Copper
Potassium
Protein
Manganese
Phosphorus

Asparagus has been known for many centuries for its medicinal properties. It is thought of as a food that heals and cleanses. In addition to its many nutrients, it acts as a diuretic. Its fiber works as a laxative. It protects small blood vessels. Green asparagus is a good source of vitamin C, which helps you to produce collagen. Maintaining enough collagen leads to younger looking skin.

Selecting and Storing Asparagus

Recent research has underscored the value of careful storage and speedy consumption of fresh asparagus. The key scientific finding here involves respiration rate. Like all vegetables, asparagus doesn’t instantly “die” when it is picked, but instead, continues to engage in metabolic activity. This metabolic activity includes intake of oxygen, the breaking down of starches and sugars, and the releasing of carbon dioxide.

Here are a few tips on how to select and store this nutritious vegetable:

Select a bunch that has spears of the same or similar diameter so that they will all cook at the same pace. Choose spears that are smooth and firm, avoiding the wrinkled ones. Avoid buying spears that have a yellowish look or a sharp smell, as this indicates lack of freshness. Wrapping asparagus in a damp cloth will make it last longer in the refrigerator. Cook asparagus right away as it will take on a wooden texture after a couple of days.