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

1. Prepare the grill for direct cooking over medium heat.
2. 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).
3. Spread the asparagus on a plate.  Drizzle the oil over the spears, then sprinkle the salt.  Turn the spears until they are evenly coated.
4. 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.