Asparagus, watermelon and corn-on-the-cob – all say “SUMMER” to me!
Asparagus fresh-off-the-grill is one of my favorite things! I even like to eat it cold from the fridge the day after. Okay, I know they get a little floppy in the fridge, but man-oh-man, that caramelization from the grill tastes amazing no matter the flop factor!
If you grill vegetables, you can feel free to singe away. These don’t have the combination of creatine and sugar found in meats, nor does it have the fat drippings that smoke up into PAHs.
~ Will Clower, Ph.D. (Neurophysiology) via MindBodyGreen
Let’s talk a little bit about the nutritional value of these little green stick-like veggies. Asparagus is packed full of vitamin C, vitamin A, Vitamin K, vitamin E, folate, potassium, phosphorous and fiber. It even has 2.2 grams of protein per serving. For only 20 calories and 0.2 grams of fat per 1/2 cup serving, that’s a nutrient power house!
Dr. Z’s addition of roasted garlic to this recipe, not only packs on the flavor, but adds incredible health benefits! And you never know, you may ward off some vampires too 😉 – I’m just joking 🙂
Want to add a few more health benefits? Grow your own! In last week’s article, Dr. Z. told us all about the health benefits of gardening. According to Mother Earth News, a well maintained asparagus bed will remain productive for 10 – 15 years. And it’s easy to grow. Check out their “All About Growing Asparagus” guide.
In her super easy recipe. Dr. Z. does cooks her asparagus in the oven, but you can definitely use the same techniques on the grill.
Let’s give it a try!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Asparagus Spears
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 Garlic Cloves -minced
- ½ tsp Coarse Sea Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cut the bottom inch or two off the asparagus stalks.
- In a large bowl toss the asparagus, olive oil, minced garlic, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the asparagus out on a baking sheet or grill pan.
- Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes.
- Plate and enjoy
And don’t forget… This recipe is Vegan, Keto and Paleo friendly!
Like this recipe? Try Dr. Z’s Roasted Cauliflower Rice – YUM!
Here’s to healthy and delicious food!
Jen
Editor-In-Chief
Dr. Stephanie Zgraggen – a chiropractor and clinical nutritionist, is the director of Lime and Lotus Healing Arts Center in Charleston, South Carolina. She is also an author and leading expert in women’s hormones and health. Her private practice is centered on functional endocrinology, lifestyle modification and whole food supplementation. Her expertise includes functionally evaluating thyroid, adrenals, male and female hormone imbalances, and digestion. Her mission is to empower women to transform their lives naturally to balance their weight, energy and get their sexy back! She has written for national publications such as Chiropractic Economics, Natural Awakenings and Nutrition Perspectives and has shared the stage at events with Elizabeth Gilbert and Marianne Williamson. For more information on Dr Z and her programs and services visit –
