Appetite For Health: Grilled Asparagus
Experts such as the physicians with the TriHealth Heart Institute stress the importance of a heart-healthy diet to decrease your risk of heart disease & high blood pressure. This includes incorporating 3-6 servings of vegetables every day!
Asparagus contains many nutrients that aid in heart health, such as: fiber, folate, vitamin K, & the antioxidant vitamins: A, C, E. In addition, it also contains glutathione & asparagine. Glutathione helps to break down free radicals, which is important for heart health. Asparagine is a natural diuretic that helps rid the body of excess fluid & salts, which is important for those who have edema or high blood pressure. Grilling asparagus with a little oil can help the body absorb the fat soluble vitamins (vitamin E & K).
Consider adding asparagus to your meals this week beginning with this easy to prepare recipe courtesy of Appetite for Health and the registered dietitians at the TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. fresh asparagus
- Vegetable or olive oil
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Prepare the grill for direct cooking over medium heat.
- Remove & discard the tough bottom of each asparagus spear by gently bending it until it snaps at its natural point of tenderness (~ 2/3 of the way down the spear).
- Spread the asparagus on a plate. Drizzle the oil over the spears, then sprinkle the salt. Turn the spears until they are evenly coated.
- Brush the grill grates clean. Grill the asparagus (perpendicular to the grate) over direct medium heat with the lid closed; for ~ 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally. The asparagus should be browned in spots, but not charred.