I remember when I was a kid andfeared this holiday (with a passion). I didn’t really know what Saint Patrick’s was really about (now though, thanks to my uncle, I know it celebrates Christianity coming to Ireland). After all, all that mattered to little kid me was that every Saint Patrick’s I ran the risk of getting pinched by my lovely older brother for not wearing green… But alas, those scary days are far behind, and it is time to celebrate all the green-colored food in my life.
I’m currently in California (enjoying Spring Break), and seeing all the farms and fresh produce really inspired me. I looked into what produce was in season, and lucky for me Asparagus was on the list! I used to hate asparagus, but a classmate of mine recommended not broiling it; instead, he grilled it! Well, my love for the little green spears started that day! Now, I prefer to bake them. It is oh so simple, and results in flavorful and tender veggies that are irresistible (seriously, I eat asparagus like others eat chocolate bars!)
Given that today is a day for green and magical, I thought I would share another simple recipe (remember my last one, thefruit salad?), but this time for a vegetable that gets a bad rep! Let’s give the asparagus some love, shall we?
Simply Roasted Asparagus
Serves 4
Serving Size: 4 oz asparagus Calories/Serving: 55
Ingredients (just four!):
- 1lb asparagus, tough bottom ends cut off
- Cooking Spray
- 1/3tsp salt
- 1/4tsp pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line
a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Spray cooking spray onto the
baking sheet. Lay the asparagus in one layer on the foil, and spray with
more cooking spray. You should have a thin coating on the asparagus.
Evenly sprinkle the salt and pepper onto the spears. Turn the asparagus
and move around a bit on the sheet to ensure even coating of spray and
spices. - Cook in the oven for 10 minutes. Give the pan a nice
shake so the spears roll over, and cook for an additional 13 minutes or
until spears are tender but not mushy (they will bend slightly if picked
up).
Remember! Different sized spears will cook at different
times. These times are for medium-sized spears, so make sure to adjust
accordingly.
