Asparagus with Chili Powder and health benefits

Image from: .oultonwalledgarden.co.uk/vegtables-1

I made this asparagus the other day and loved it. I decided I like it a little on the firm side. I tossed some in my salad too. It was a great addition. I like to find ways to eat vegetables that make them taste good. This was one of those times where I really enjoyed eating them.They would be a nice colorful addition to omelets, stir-fry or pasta dishes.

Asparagus: Some information

1. Best to eat during the springtime when the shoots are young and straight and the buds are nice and tight.

2, Nice if you can buy them from a store that keeps the stems "feet" in water.

3. For ideal taste and nutrition eat within 48 hours after bringing it home. Store with damp towel wrapped around the bottom of the stems "feet" and store in an inch of water. In a tall container. Put a plastic bag over the top to keep the moisture in. It helps to keep it fresh.

4. Wash them well in cool water. They are often sandy and gritty.

5. You can peel off the end of the asparagus to get optimal use. You just peel it at the base, about 3 inches up.

6. Some people feel that they will stay greener when cooking if they are boiled quick rather than steamed.

7. Best if bought fresh for the highest nutritional benefits.

8. It is one of the few vegetables that contains inulin. (which is known for being a friendly Bactria that lives in the large intestine. This can aid in preventing yeast overgrowth and keeping the digestive track and belly healthy.

9. It is an alkaline food. It is low in calories and carbs.

10. It is a nice source of Potassium, folic acid, Vitamin, A, C and K and some traces of B complex.

11. One cup has 3 grams  of fiber. It is also rich in phosphorus and niacin. Low level of sodium.

12. It has antioxidants agents . Can also increase urination and helps to prevent kidney stones from forming.

Ingredients:
 6-8 Asparagus spears (washed and peeled and trimmed)
 3 to 4 T grape seed oil or olive oil or coconut oil
1/2 tsp chili powder
salt and pepper to taste
fresh lime juice to squeeze on top if desired.

Directions:
1. Heat up frying in pan on medium high heat.  Pour in oil let it heat up. 
2. Pour in chopped 1 inch pieces of asparagus. Toss and let cook 3-4 min. Toss in the chili powder.
3. Put on the lid to let it stem for 3-4 min on low heat.
4. Season with salt and pepper and lime juice if desired. Serve. :)

The chili powder can amp up the nutritional benefits of the asparagus.