Asparagus... the vegetable that sounds like Aloysius Snuffleupagus (Big Bird's imaginary friend on Sesame Street), and was even the given name of "Gus", the theatre cat in the musical Cats, is one of the most nutritionally balanced foods in existence. A member of the lily family, asparagus is high in folic acid and a good source of potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, vitamins A and C, and thiamin. It also contains no fat or cholesterol and is low in sodium and calories (20 calories for approximately 5 spears). Enjoy asparagus with meat, fish, or poultry, as well as in pasta, salad, or egg dishes. Try the one below as a starter.
Source: Michigan Asparagus Board
Orange and Asparagus Salad
Quick and colorful, this salad appeals to kids and adults.
2 cups cut-up fresh or frozen asparagus
1 (6-ounce) bag spring or European lettuce mix
1 (11-ounce) can mandarin orange sections, well drained
1/³ cup thinly sliced red onion
¼ cup honey roasted cashews
½ cup raspberry vinaigrette dressing
Steam or microwave asparagus until tender-crisp. Drain and
let cool. Combine cooked asparagus, lettuce, oranges, onion
and cashews. Pour dressing over all. Toss to evenly coat. Serve
immediately.
Makes 6 servings
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Yours in health,
Jane
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