Quick and Easy Asparagus

By Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.A.C.N., C.N.S., C.B.T.

Loaded with nutrients like folic acid and vitamin C, which help prevent hardening of the arteries, asparagus is also one of the best foods to help our bodies make glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that we need to protect our blood vessels from oxidative stress and keep our immune systems healthy. To boot, this top healing veggie is a great source of cardio-protective fiber.

*Choose organic produce whenever possible*

• 1 bunch asparagus
• 1 lemon, sliced in half
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch garlic salt
• 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Wash and snap off the asparagus ends; by snapping the spears with your fingers as close to the bottom as possible, you find the natural point at which the tough, fibrous end becomes tender. Fill a sauté pan with about ½-inch water and add the asparagus spears. Cover pan with a lid and steam the asparagus on medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, or until “al dente” (i.e. firm but tender enough to bite through easily – the asparagus should still be bright green). While asparagus is cooking, peel and mince garlic. When asparagus is done, place it on a serving dish, squeeze the juice from 1/2 lemon over it and sprinkle with garlic. Add a pinch of garlic salt and drizzle with olive oil. Serves 2.

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