It’s that time of year in Canada when seasonal crops start to pop up and are available at your local farmer’s market. Or if you’re feeling ambitious you can forage for wild plants, like the asparagus in the picture above which was picked at my parent’s farm.

Asparagus is not only delicious, it also contains numerous health building properties, including:
• Source of folic acid which is essential for proper cellular division and DNA synthesis
• Promotes bone health because it is a source of vitamin K, calcium and magnesium
• Source of the prebiotic inulin which helps promote digestive health
• Contains the antioxidants vitamins A and C as well as zinc, selenium, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin which help fight free radicals
• Acts as a natural diuretic, due to its high potassium and low sodium as well as the amino acid asparagines, which can help with problems involving swelling such as arthritis, rheumatism and PMS-related water retention.

There are numerous ways to enjoy asparagus, my favourite is roasting it.

Roasted Asparagus
1. Wash asparagus and cut off bottom fourth
2. Place in a baking dish
3. Add chopped garlic and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil
4. Place in oven at 400F for about 10 minutes, turning once, until slightly browned
5. Enjoy!