At the Market

The second week into the new season unexpectedly brought asparagus to the market--thanks to two days of sunshine and warm temps. Stalks can literally spring up several inches in one day.

Asparagus is a member of the lily family and a perennial that may take up to three years before producing shoots from its underground crown.

Nutrition
This amazing vegetable is rich in nutrients such as Vitamin K, potassium, Vitamin A, C, and folate, which is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system. It is estimated that 10% of heart attacks suffered by Americans could be reduced by consuming 400mcg of folate daily. And just one serving of asparagus can supply 66% of the daily recommended dose.

Also present in asparagus is a carbohydrate that promotes the growth of good bacteria in our large intestines, helping to keep our digestive systems healthy. It is a natural diurectic and has been useful in treating symptoms of swelling and water-retention. Pregnant women should eat lots of asparagus because it fights birth defects with its high amounts of folate.

Storage
To store, put a damp paper towel or cotton dishtowel in the paper bag with the asparagus, close it up and keep it in the vegetable drawer of your fridge.

Preparation
You can cut or snap the ends off of each stalk if you prefer, keeping the ends for soup. Asparagus is delicious lightly steamed, roasted and even grilled (be sure to coat it with olive oil first). It's excellent chopped up and cooked with scrambled eggs, omelets and pasta salad, or topped with a light vinaigrette.

Asparagus will be available at the St. Joe Market until mid-to-late June.