Asparagus

Do you like asparagus?  It is a wonderfully tasty vegetable and it’s full of health benefits for you!

You’ll find that asparagus is low in calories, great for maintaining or losing weight.  It also supplies protein and fiber which helps with digestion.  

Additionally, asparagus contains vitamins A, C and K (K helps with blood clotting and bone health.) Wait, there’s more!  This green vegetable also fortifies our bodies with potassium, phosphorus, folate and small amounts of iron, zinc and riboflavin.

As you can see there are many health benefits to your body in addition to the taste.

Asparagus has been around for a long time.  Europeans brought it to the United States in 1655 but it was in diets long before that around the world.

In the United States you will find asparagus being grown mainly in three states:  California, Michigan and Washington.  It is labor-intensive to grow with each stock needing to be handpicked.

In order to buy the freshest asparagus you should look for plump and straight stocks.  The stems should not be dry, split or excessively woody.

Once you get the asparagus home, it’s important to store it so that it stays fresh.  It is recommended that you keep the rubber band on to keep the stocks together.  

Then you cut an inch or two off of each stem and place them in a jar or glass with an inch or two of cold water.  Finally, cover them loosely with a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator.  The asparagus should last about a week.

Private Home Health Care loves the versatility of asparagus. We basically like to prepare it steamed, grilled, or baked with olive oil, lemon or parmesan cheese.  Mangiare!