Vegetable of the Month: Asparagus!

Spring brings the start of the growing season in Maryland.  Over the next several months there will be plenty of fruits and vegetables to choose from that are in-season.  Now is a great time to buy spring fruits and vegetables at your local farmers' market or grocery store.  Fruits and veggies that are in-seaon now include spinach, parsnips, and radishes.  We will highlight one more yummy veggie that is in-season right now -- Asparagus!  Check out below the many ways you can eat this veggie.

Raw
Serve asparagus spears with low-fat dip or cut spears into smaller pieces and add to salads. 

Baked

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Place fresh asparagus in a plastic zip-top bag, drizzle with vegetable oil.  Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Shake until asparagus is coated with oil and seasonings. 
4. Remove asparagus from zip-top bag and place on a baking sheet.
5. Bake in oven until asparagus begins to brown, about 10 minutes.

Steamed

1. Microwave asparagus in a safe bowl, or cook asparagus on the stovetop in a pan.  Add a small amount of water before cooking.
2. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grilled

1. Coat asparagus spears with vegetable oil spray.
2. Place on a pre-heated grill and cook for about 5-8 minutes until tender, turning occasionally.
3. Add your favorite herbs and spices.

*For all recipes, wash asparagus and remove tough white ends before preparing.