When I think of spring, I think of asparagus. This universally popular vegetable is in peak season from February to June, where the earliest and most tender stalks are a beautiful apple green with purple-tinged tips. White asparagus is grown underground to prevent it from turning green, and is popular in Europe. Whichever color you go with, look for firm stalks and tight tips. Avoid any slimy bits or limp stalks. Asparagus is best cooked the day it’s purchased, although you can store it upright in about an inch of water for 2-3 days.
One cup of asparagus contains 20% of the daily value for vitamin A which functions to support our vision and immune system. Asparagus also boasts a significant amount of iron, fiber, and even protein!
If eating asparagus makes your urine smell bad, you’re not alone. Most scientists agree that this is caused by asparagusic acid, a naturally occurring sulfurous compound. Some people can smell it and some cannot. Interestingly, there isn’t consensus on whether or not everyone actually produces the odor. Even if this vegetable makes your pee smell- it’s super nutritious and super delicious. Simply roasting asparagus spears with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest is one of my favorite ways to have it.
Happy (almost) spring!
Reference
The New Food Lovers Companion: Comprehensive Definitions of Nearly 6,000 Food, Drink, and Culinary Terms. Third edition. Hauppauge, NY: Barron's Educational Series, Inc.; 2001.