Asparagus is Packed Full of Goodness

Healthy Facts - Here are five:
1. British asparagus is packed full of goodness, so not only are you getting a delicious vegetable but a healthy one too.
2. Eating asparagus promotes healthy bacteria in the large intestine and can help reduce bloating.
3. Asparagus contains vitamin K, essential for healthy blood clotting.
4. It is a rich source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system.
5. Asparagus is a mild diuretic and is believed to help detoxify the body.

Did You Know:

1. Asparagus originated 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean region.
2. That it's dubbed the Usain Bolt of the vegetable world... British Asparagus can grow up to 10cm in one day.
3. It's in season (UK) from the end of April to June, and you can pick up British asparagus in all major supermarkets when the season is in full swing. You can also find it in greengrocers, farm shops, markets and from lots of other growers.

Growing British Asparagus:
Some say that growing British Asparagus is a labour of love, as each spear is harvested by hand when it reaches just the right height.
With this years weather ... a cool, crisp spring, not too wet, not too dry means that we should be on course for a great crop. There are many fantastic asparagus growers who are behind the delicious spears we’ve come to expect!

These facts from here and here

Now for a great low carb recipe idea

Crustless Quiche With Asparagus

Ingredients:

6 eggs

250grams of fresh asparagus

If fresh is not available use one tin of whole asparagus spears

1 heaped tablespoon of finely chopped Jalapenos green peppers for extra zap

6 tablespoons of double cream

Salt and pepper to taste.

Serves 2-4

Mix the ingredients in a bowl or pyrex jug

Pour into a non stick baking dish 8" x 1.5"

Place the asparagus spears

Place into a pre heated oven at 190c and cook for 20 to 25 minutes.

Check that quiche is properly cooked by placing a knife in centre of quiche - it should come out clean.
Also as ovens vary just keep an eye on the quiche while cooking.
This quiche tastes delicious eaten hot or cold.

For more recipes and food ideas check out our food blog here.

All the best Jan