Asparagus: health benefits and harms

Asparagus is considered one of the most wholesome, tasty and expensive vegetable crops. There are more than 200 different species of this plant, while only a small part of them is in demand. A vegetable is simply an invaluable product for a person, because it contains a lot of useful substances.

What is asparagus and how does it look

Asparagus is a plant belonging to the asparagus family. Places of culture - almost the entire territory of the European continent, North African countries and western Asia. She was known to people in ancient times. It was actively used in the field of medicine as a diuretic and blood purifier. Later, asparagus began to be attributed to aphrodisiacs and was used for problems with potency. At some point, for the same reason, monks were forbidden to use it.

Today, the vegetable is actively used in the field of cooking. The most valuable are young asparagus shoots, which have just appeared out of the ground. After the leaf buds open and the shoot is denser, the plant becomes unsuitable for consumption.

In addition, this culture is also used as a decorative one, for example, for decorating flower bouquets. Asparagus is a perennial dioecious plant, the cultivation of which can be done in the garden, but in order to achieve an acceptable result, it will be necessary to allocate a fairly large area for this. Having reached the peak of fruiting, the plant can produce an average of about 10 shoots per season. Today, the most popular are the first-generation male open-pollinated hybrids, which have a higher yield, while they do not produce seeds and are not planted themselves.

Kinds

1. Soya. Obtained from processed soybeans. Beans are soaked, after which they increase in size up to 2 times, then grind to a uniform consistency. The resulting mass passes the procedure of pressing and separating the liquid part - soy milk. During boiling, a foam occurs which is collected and dried. This is the finished product. In addition to the original taste and aroma, this asparagus boasts a number of useful substances.
2. White. This type of asparagus is very popular on the European continent. Ripening period is March-June. The white color of the product is due to the lack of interaction of the plant with light during the growth period, and the relatively high cost is due to labor costs in the care and cultivation. The complexity of cultivating this species can be compared with artichokes and truffles. This variety of vegetables is inferior to other types in the quality of taste, however, a wide range of useful substances present in the product fills this gap.
3. Green It is also sometimes called medicinal.It is considered the most common species, actively grows on the coasts of the seas. For a long period of time this variety was considered not quite acceptable for consumption, especially in aristocratic circles. But then it turned out that such asparagus has a wide range of nutrients.
4. Violet. A rare species, grown in the dark, while conducting short-term sessions of exposure to sunlight. As a result of this, red and blue pigmentation occurs on the plant itself. The vegetable has a bitter taste unlike other species. When exposed to temperature, asparagus can change color from purple to green.
5. Bean. It is also called asparagus bean. This variety is very popular, beans have a yellow, red, even multi-colored color. Typically, unripe beans are used in cooking. Before use, heat treatment is mandatory. Asparagus may be included in the diet menu. It is rich in easily digestible proteins, which are similar in composition to amino acids in meat and fish.
6. Marine. Although asparagus is similar to an underwater plant, it is not an algae. Its habitat is the coast of the seas and salt marshes. The taste is brackish, slightly giving off iodine, however, depending on the cooking conditions, the product may change its taste characteristics. It is used both in processed and in kind.

What is the difference between asparagus and green beans

In beans, the stems are usually curly, but can be straight, while they are strongly branched, covered with a small number of hairs. In asparagus, the stems are quite branched, twigs are bundled and located in the axils of the leaves. The first culture has ternary paired leaves and long petioles. The second - underdeveloped, small, scaly or spiky leaves at the base, which have hard spurs.

Beans have an average of 3-5 flowers on long pedicels; they have a dark purple and violet color. In asparagus, the flowers are quite small, as a rule, are in the axils of the leaves, single in racemes or thyroid inflorescences.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 21 kcal;
• proteins - 1.9 g;
• fats - 0.1 g;
• carbohydrates - 3.1 g.

The vegetable has vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B6, C, E, H and PP. The product is also rich in minerals - potassium, calcium, zinc, sodium and folic acid. In addition, it contains fiber that normalizes the digestive tract, and asparagine - a substance that supports the work of the heart.

The beneficial properties of asparagus

General benefit

1. Helps fight cancer. Studies have shown that a vegetable can be used as a means to alleviate cancer symptoms. Saponins contained in the product have a beneficial effect on the body, as they can provoke the death of cancer cells. In addition, they inhibit the further growth and spread of harmful cells. Another compound - sulforaphane - has chemoprophylactic properties. Folate reduces the risk of developing cancer of the pancreas, colon and esophagus.
2. Improves urinary tract health. Urinary tract health is determined by the health of the bladder, kidneys, and urethra, and asparagus can help support these organs. Due to its antibacterial properties, a green vegetable inhibits the growth of bacteria, which can potentially trigger the development of various infections. Vegetable can be used as a natural diuretic. The diuretic properties of asparagus help flush waste from the kidneys and prevent the formation of stones.
3. Fights inflammation. Asparagus has antioxidant properties, so it is an excellent product to fight inflammation. It contains substances that reduce inflammation, especially those related to heart disease.Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties of this product can relieve headaches, back pain, rheumatism and gout.
4. Useful during menstruation. During menstruation, women may feel lethargic and general tiredness. At this time, the body needs to be replenished with useful substances, including B vitamins, which are many in asparagus. A vegetable can also be used as a medicine for treating menstrual irregularities. Once in the body, it helps it to produce estrogen and relieves the symptoms of menopause.
5. Supports healthy skin and hair. Asparagus can be used as a cosmetic product to cleanse the skin. It can help get rid of acne and improve skin tone. Vitamin C, which is part of the vegetable, has a nourishing effect on the skin and prevents its dryness, and folates improve the condition of the hair.
6. Strengthens the heart. Vitamin K, contained in asparagus, prevents hardening of the arteries and keeps calcium in their lining. Also, a vegetable can help lower blood pressure. Soluble fiber reduces the risk of heart disease. Regular fiber intake can also affect lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. The plant contains thiamine, which regulates the level of homocysteine ​​in the blood. Excess homocysteine ​​increases the risk of heart related diseases. Phytocomponents and ascorbic acid help remove excess cholesterol from the blood and improve heart health, while folates prevent heart disease.
7. Supports brain health. Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamins E and C. These two nutrients create a powerful combination that helps reduce the risk of Alzheimer's. A vegetable helps prevent impairment and decreased cognitive function, especially in older people. It can also be used to get rid of depression. Folic acid improves mood and helps to cope with irritability, so the product can be consumed by people with epilepsy and seizures.
8. Establishes digestion. Fiber in asparagus aids digestion, helping to move food in the intestines. Inulin is a substance that is directly responsible for improving digestion processes. In addition, the product is rich in water, which in turn helps prevent constipation and improves digestive health. The prebiotic properties of the vegetable support the functioning of beneficial bacteria in the intestine, thereby creating a balance between the microorganisms living there. Asparagus can be used for bloating or to get rid of excess water in the body.
9. Improves bone health. Very often, with a low level of vitamin K in the body, bone tissue weakens, which can lead to fractures. Asparagus abounds with this nutrient - in one cup of the vegetable contains about half the daily norm of vitamin K. It significantly affects the absorption of calcium, and also prevents it from being washed out of the body, which ultimately contributes to bone health and reduces the risk of various diseases, for example, osteoporosis. Vitamin K regulates bone mineralization and helps maintain bone density. Iron also supports bone health by strengthening bones and joints.
10. Supports immunity. Glutathione in asparagus is a detoxifier that helps kill carcinogens. This compound is necessary for the full functioning of the immune function. Prebiotics help maintain immunity and fight colds. The vegetable is rich in antioxidants that strengthen the immune system.
11. Regulates sugar levels. Asparagus is a product that regulates blood sugar. A vegetable helps increase the production of insulin, a hormone that helps the body absorb glucose.The product also increases glucose uptake by muscles and body tissues, which helps lower sugar levels and alleviate the symptoms of diabetes.
12. Supports healthy eyesight. Vitamin A, which asparagus is rich in, copes with the task of maintaining healthy vision. This vitamin helps the retina interact with light and improves eye health. The antioxidant properties of the product help prevent vision problems, for example, fight macular degeneration. Asparagus is rich in vitamin E and two antioxidants - lutein and zeaxanthin. Vitamin E improves vision, while lutein and zeaxanthin protect the eyes from cataracts.
13. Facilitates a hangover. Asparagus can mitigate the effects of cellular toxicity resulting from alcohol consumption. The substances contained in the vegetable contribute to the rapid suppression of the effects of alcohol on the body, thereby reducing the unpleasant effects in the morning. Asparagus makes up for the loss of minerals and amino acids due to the ingestion of alcohol, preventing the occurrence of headaches. The amino acids present in the product also protect the liver from harmful toxins, reducing the unpleasant effects of a hangover.

For women

Asparagus is good for women because it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The vegetable promotes the production of estrogen, so it is useful in combating the symptoms of menopause. It replenishes estrogen levels and supports the body in the event of a complete or partial hysterectomy. The plant also stimulates the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, calming the stomach and promoting digestion. The anti-aging properties of asparagus contribute to an increase in the production of glutathione, an anti-inflammatory nutrient that can slow down the action of enzymes that break down collagen and cause wrinkles.

Asparagus extracts can be used to whiten the skin. Also, the vegetable helps to relieve symptoms of PMS, increases fertility, nourishing and strengthening female reproductive organs.

For men

Asparagus is also good for the male population. This vegetable has a significant effect on potency, libido, helps increase hormone levels. It is worth mentioning that this plant has a long history of use as an aphrodisiac. Since ancient times, folk healers have recommended asparagus to improve libido. There is evidence that the ancient Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used this vegetable for these purposes. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, asparagus is considered an excellent way to increase potency. It is rich in vitamin E, a nutrient that increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the pelvic area. An increase in blood flow to the genitals leads to a good erection.

In addition to sexual desire, circulation in the pelvic area is one of the most important factors that concern sexual functioning. Without normal blood flow, a man will not be able to get the desired erection. Vitamin E also plays an important role in the production of sex hormones, which influence sexual desire. Asparagus helps in the production of histamine, an organic compound that is secreted during orgasm.

It also contains important minerals such as manganese, zinc and selenium, which affect sexual function. Deficiency of these minerals can lead to decreased sex drive and poor sperm production. In addition, zinc increases libido, promotes the production of sperm and testosterone - the hormone that is responsible for the sexual functioning of men.Asparagus also contains significant amounts of vitamin B6, a nutrient that is widely known for its properties.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, women may become addicted to completely different products, including those that have not even been addressed before. If asparagus has been included in a number of these products, then it is first necessary to analyze the usefulness of this product during pregnancy. It’s worth saying right away that asparagus is useful, but only if consumed in moderation. The vegetable is rich in minerals and vitamins.

It is worth noting that raw asparagus is not recommended for women in position. Before use, the product needs to be thoroughly cleaned and properly processed, it is necessary to get rid of the harmful microbes that may be contained in it. Only in this case, asparagus will have a beneficial effect on the woman's body and her fetus. Just 100 g of boiled asparagus contains more than 50% of the daily intake of folic acid. Folic acid helps to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and also minimizes the likelihood of preeclampsia.

Calcium contained in the vegetable strengthens the skeletal system of the fetus, lowers blood pressure and prevents maternal preeclampsia. Vitamin C helps in the production of collagen, and also strengthens the immune system of the fetus. Vitamin B6 balances the level of glucose, and also contributes to the development of the nervous system and brain of the child.

Pregnant women are advised to consume asparagus fried or in salads. Also, this vegetable can be steamed, boiled and baked.

There are also erroneous points of view regarding this product. Some believe that asparagus can affect a pregnancy test by showing a false-positive result. In fact, this is not true.

It is necessary to focus on the dangers and contraindications of asparagus. It contains substances that can provoke excessive gas formation, especially in cases of digestive disorders. Those women who are allergic to onions, leeks, and garlic should avoid using this product. Before use, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor about the potential risks of including asparagus in your diet.

When breastfeeding

You can use asparagus as a food product while breastfeeding. Vegetables are a good source of fiber, vitamins A, C, E and K, chromium and folate, substances that go well with vitamin B12 found in fish, poultry, meat and dairy products. The combination of folic acid and vitamin B12 acts as an enhancer of brain function, helping to prevent cognitive impairment. The product also contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that stimulates the work of prolactin, a hormone that produces milk.

However, it is worth remembering that asparagus is also sometimes used as a medicine. But during breastfeeding it is extremely dangerous to use it in that capacity. In addition, some women may experience an allergy to the vegetable. It also contains carbohydrates and various sugars - glucose, fructose and galactose. In the intestines of a small child, there are still no enzymes that can effectively break down the substances contained in asparagus. As a result, intestinal gases occur, which cause discomfort and bloating.

In the first two months of breastfeeding, asparagus is prohibited, as there is an increased risk of digestive upsets. It can also affect the palatability of milk, as a result of which the child simply refuses to eat. This product should be introduced into the diet gradually. It is permissible to eat a small piece of vegetable per day no more than once a week. You need to use only a high-quality product, while it is very undesirable to eat it in a canned or pickled form, as this can harm the health of the baby.The first dose should be before lunch, so that in case of side effects, you can immediately notice them. In case of colic, rashes, upset stomach, asparagus should be excluded from the diet and consult a doctor.

For kids

When adding asparagus to a child’s diet, there are no particular risks. But still it is recommended not to give the baby a vegetable until he is 8-10 months old. This product can cause excessive gas formation, and it will not be easy for the child’s body to digest such food. This is the main problem associated with the introduction of asparagus in the children's menu, since other risks, including the likelihood of allergic reactions, are very low. Otherwise, a nutritious plant is very beneficial for the baby. There are few calories in it, while the concentration of vitamins and minerals is significant.

It contains vitamins A, C, E, K, folate, thiamine, niacin, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and zinc. They play a large role in the overall development of the child. Antioxidants contained in asparagus have a positive effect on the metabolism of the baby, fight free radicals, which can provoke oxidative stress. Also, the vegetable is effective in protecting the liver from free radicals, the damage from which is much greater in children than in adults. It activates the immune system, thereby counteracting microbes that attack the fragile children's body.

Also, do not forget about precautions. Before starting cooking, the vegetable should be peeled. This is an important point, since it will be difficult for the child’s body to digest the skin. At a minimum, this must be done before the baby’s teeth are formed.

It is forbidden to use the product in cases of individual intolerance, ulcers of the stomach and intestines, diseases of the urinary system.

When losing weight

Asparagus is very useful during weight loss, because it provides up to 75 mg of polyphenolic antioxidants per 100 g of serving, including rutin, quercetin and kempferol. These substances, interacting with proteins, regulate the metabolism of fats, their rate of burning and energy production. The vegetable also has a diuretic effect, therefore, it helps to get rid of excess fluid in the body. The antioxidants contained in the plant reduce starch breakdown by inhibiting starch hydrolase enzymes. This helps to slow down the absorption of glucose, thereby reducing blood sugar fluctuations.

The vegetable also contains substances that suppress stressful conditions and reduce the desire to snack once again. Japanese researchers have even developed asparagus-based functional anti-stress products that lower cortisol levels.

Asparagus also has a beneficial effect on the liver, increasing the production of enzymes involved in the metabolism of fat and alcohol. Finally, regular use of this vegetable perfectly saturates the body, as it contains both soluble and insoluble fibers. The product contains inulin, a substance that increases the number of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. This helps the body suppress a sense of appetite. In addition, asparagus is a low-calorie product - only 21 kilocalories per 100 g. During weight loss, asparagus can be eaten fried, steamed, grilled or raw in salads, vegetable sauces, risottos, stews or soups.

The benefits and harms of pickled asparagus

Pickled asparagus, like raw asparagus, has a number of beneficial properties. The use of processed vegetables can normalize blood pressure, the work of the cardiovascular system. It also has a beneficial effect on the functioning of almost all internal organs. If we talk about the calorie content of the pickled product, then this figure is quite low, so the vegetable can be included in the diet menu.

At the same time, pickled asparagus has its own contraindications. It is not recommended to use it in cases of gastrointestinal tract problems, prostatitis, cystitis and rheumatism.

Soy asparagus: health benefits and harms

The usefulness of soy asparagus is commensurate with the usefulness of soy. This product has a wide range of beneficial properties and supplies the body with the necessary substances.Vegetable has a positive effect on the body, as it helps to get rid of waste, helps to slow down the aging process, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, prevents hair loss and increases estrogen production.

Now about the harm of soy asparagus. Soy foods are not allowed to be consumed on a regular basis. They can adversely affect the functioning of the reproductive system of boys and men due to the presence of phytoestrogens. Women also need to be careful, as a vegetable can disrupt the endocrine system.

Asparagus in medicine

Medicinal asparagus is used in the field of medicine, especially actively in pharmacology. The product has a number of medicinal properties that can help in case of gout, diabetes, rheumatism, kidney disease, lung and whooping cough.

With diabetes

Asparagus is a product that can help fight diabetes. With regular use of this vegetable, you can notice a significant decrease in blood sugar. The substances in the product stimulate the production of insulin, a hormone that helps absorb glucose. Asparagus will enrich the patient’s diet, and in case of exacerbation, it will help relieve the symptoms of the disease and accelerate the onset of the remission phase.

Important: the glycemic index of asparagus is 30 units.

With pancreatitis

During an exacerbation of pancreatitis, it is recommended to exclude asparagus from the diet. A vegetable can have a negative effect on the body. During a period of full-fledged stable remission, patients can be pampered with asparagus, first in boiled, then in baked, and only after - in its natural raw form. However, it is necessary to carefully monitor even the slightest changes in well-being. If there are no side effects, then you can use asparagus, while portioning should be verified individually.

With gastritis

Asparagus contains saponins, which irritate the gastric mucosa. This product is especially dangerous during an exacerbation of gastrointestinal diseases. In the remission phase, it is allowed to consume a vegetable, but only after heat treatment, it is not worth eating it in its raw form. In general, with gastritis, it is recommended to include vegetables in your diet, since they have a beneficial effect on the digestive tract and alleviate the symptoms of the disease.

For constipation

Asparagus is rich in fiber, which helps facilitate the passage of food through the digestive tract and improves digestion. The gentle effect of the vegetable on the intestines helps eliminate the tendency to constipation, while not irritating the mucous membrane.

With gout

Purines - substances that are contained in asparagus in a sufficiently large amount can harm the body by increasing the concentration of uric acid, as a result of which the symptoms of gout can only worsen. However, in an acceptable amount, this product is allowed. For example, you can drink decoctions and tinctures, which include asparagus.

Asparagus-based traditional medicine recipes

For arthritis and rheumatism

1. Brew in boiled water (1 l) the crushed root of medicinal asparagus (60 g).
2. Cool the broth.
3. Take 1 tbsp. up to 3 times a day.

With problems of the musculoskeletal system

1. Chopped shoots (3 tsp) boil in boiling water (1 cup).
2. Take 1-2 tbsp. up to 3 times a day. The course of treatment is up to 4 weeks.

Antipyretic and diuretic

1. Pour the powder from the asparagus root (15 g) with boiling water (1 cup).
2. Put in a water bath. Cook for 30 minutes.
3. Strain.
4. Take 1 glass up to 3 times a day.

Infusion to increase potency

1. Pour asparagus (7 pcs.) With boiling water (250 ml).
2. Insist about 9 hours.
3. Take 1 tbsp. up to 4 times a day.

Remedy for periodontitis

1. Pour asparagus root (100 g) with warm water (1 tbsp.), Add vinegar (2 tbsp.) And mix.
2. Put on fire (for 10 minutes).
3. Cool the resulting product.
4. Rinse your mouth several times during the day.

Cosmetology Asparagus

In cosmetology, medicinal asparagus is used as a means to rejuvenate the skin. With the help of this plant, you can effectively maintain the health and youth of the skin.

Mask for age spots

1. Place chopped asparagus (1 tablespoon) in a bowl, add honey (3 tablespoons), lemon essential oil (3 drops) and mix.
2. Wash your face with warm water and cleanse your skin (using a tonic).
3. Apply the resulting mass to the skin of the face.
4. Wait 30 minutes.
5. Rinse off the mask and wash with thermal water.

Eye wrinkle mask

1. Using cheesecloth, squeeze the juice from the crushed asparagus (about 2 tsp).
2. Add the base oil to the juice. You can use almond, argan, olive.
3. Soak cotton pads in the mixture and place them on closed eyes (so that the mass does not get inside).
4. Wait 30 minutes.
5. Wash your face with warm water.

Harm and contraindications

Asparagus has some contraindications and can be harmful to the body. For example, with excessive consumption, flatulence very often occurs. Sulfur contained in it can change the smell of urine and body.

Vegetable is contraindicated in cases of individual intolerance or with allergies to onions and garlic. Experts recommend excluding this product from the diet in case of gastrointestinal diseases, gout, rheumatism and kidney diseases. You also need to be very careful during pregnancy and lactation.

How to choose and store asparagus

High-quality white asparagus should be quite thick, green can be thin. Thick stalks of green vegetables are also suitable. It is important to pay attention to the whitish skins on the stems. Their presence indicates that the vegetable is already overripe.

Shelf life of asparagus is small. To preserve the product as long as possible, it should be pre-processed. It is recommended to remove the roots from the plant, put in water and refrigerate. Or you can wrap asparagus in a damp cloth and place it in a cool, dark place. This will save vegetables for a week, but every day they will lose their taste.

Is it possible to freeze

Asparagus can be frozen. To do this, before freezing, you need to wash it, remove the damaged parts and cut. Then put the vegetables in a colander and dip in a pot with boiling water, cover. Blanch for about 3 minutes, after which place a colander with ice and water. Get the asparagus and wait for the water to drain. Put vegetables in an airtight container and close it with a lid. After that, send the container to the freezer.

How to eat asparagus

There are many ways to use asparagus for food. It can be consumed in hot, cold, raw and processed form, as a main dish or side dish.

How much can you eat per day

In general, experts do not determine the maximum threshold for the consumption of this vegetable, while 4–5 pods per day are considered the optimal portion.

Can I eat at night

Eating asparagus at night is permitted. At the same time, it is likely that the product may interfere with sleep, as it often makes you go to the toilet.

Is it possible to eat raw asparagus

Asparagus is edible both in processed form and in raw. In its natural form, the product will have the most beneficial effect on the body, since an unprocessed vegetable contains the largest amount of nutrients.

Is it possible to eat in a post

Asparagus is a vegetable, therefore it is allowed to eat it in the post.

How to clean asparagus

White asparagus must be cleaned this way:

1. Peeler to remove the top layer from the shoots (1 cm back from the kidney).
2. Clean the trunks until a juicy center appears.
3. Cut 2 cm from the ends of the trunks.
4. Clean the heads.

Green asparagus needs to be cleaned a little differently:

1. With a knife, cut or chop off about 2 cm of the rough part of the pod at the lower end.
2. Remove film from the heads.

How to cook asparagus: recipes

Asparagus goes well with a variety of dishes. For example, it can be included in soups, salads, casseroles and fries.

How to cook

We can distinguish 2 technologies for preparing asparagus - classic and traditional.

Classic

1. Peel the asparagus from the coarse parts.
2. Tie sticks in bundles of 10 pieces.
3. Boil water (1 l), add lemon juice (1 tsp), sugar and salt.
4. Dip the asparagus into the pan. When the water boils, cook for another 5-7 minutes.
5. After ready to dip the sticks in water (ice).

Traditional

1. Peel the stems and place in salted boiling water (horizontal).
2. Cover (tight) and cook for 5–7 minutes. If necessary, the vegetable can be cut in half.
3. Cook the dense lower part for about 5 minutes, the gentle upper - 2 minutes.

How to fry

1. Peel the asparagus, remove the coarse parts.
2. Pour oil into a preheated pan.
3. Put the peeled garlic in a pan for 1 minute.
4. Put asparagus in a pan over medium heat. Fry for 7 minutes.
5. Salt vegetables.

How to pickle

1. Do not process young thin asparagus. From the ripe vegetable, cut the lower parts of the stems.
2. Peel the stems of a ripe vegetable. Place ripe asparagus in boiling water (for 2 minutes), cool in ice water and dry. Scalp young vegetables with boiling water in a colander and dry.
3. Arrange asparagus in high sterilized jars (so that the vegetables fit completely).
4. Heat vinegar over medium heat until warm, but not boiling. Salt and add sugar.
5. Peel, chop the garlic into plates and place in the resulting mixture. Add oil, pepper and dill seeds to the pan (Dijon mustard can be added).
6. Mix the marinade and pour them vegetables. Top up warm water.
7. Cover the banks with lids and put them in the refrigerator for 6 hours.

Asparagus salad

Ingredients:

• champignons - 300 g;
• beans (canned) - 1 cup;
• carrots (Korean) - 300 g;
• asparagus - 100 g;
• nuts (walnuts) - 50 g;
• vegetable oil - 3 tbsp.

How to cook:

1. Fry mushrooms and onions.
2. Rinse beans (can be boiled).
3. Mix all the ingredients. Add chopped nuts.

Oven Asparagus

Ingredients

• asparagus - 500 g;
• olive oil - 2 tbsp;
• garlic - 2 tooth.

How to cook:

1. Rinse the asparagus and cut off the rough ends.
2. Cover the baking sheet with foil and lay the vegetables on it.
3. Sprinkle with oil, mix and sprinkle with chopped garlic, salt and pepper (freshly ground black pepper), mix again.
4. Put in an oven preheated to 200 ° C for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer vegetables to a dish and sprinkle with lemon juice.

Asparagus soup

Ingredients

• green asparagus - 500 g;
• onion - 1 pc.;
• potatoes - 2 pcs.;
• zucchini - 1/2 pcs.;
• chicken stock - 1 l;
• olive oil - 1 tablespoon

How to cook:

1. Rinse and dry the asparagus, cut off the coarse parts, remove the skin. Cut into small pieces. Separate several buds (tops with inflorescences) and boil in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Peel and chop the onion.
3. Rinse the potatoes and zucchini, cut into cubes.
4. Pour olive oil into a pan (with a thick bottom), add onions and fry (3 minutes) over medium heat, stirring it at the same time. Add zucchini, potatoes and asparagus. Stir frying vegetables for about 3 minutes.
5. Pour the broth into the pan and intensify the fire, cover the lid after boiling and reduce the heat (to medium). Cook for 15–20 minutes.
6. Kill the resulting soup in a blender until smooth. You can add a little broth or water to it.
7. Salt and pepper the soup.
8. Garnish with asparagus slices.

Is it possible to give asparagus to animals

Dogs can be fed asparagus, while it is important to give the pet only processed product, not raw. It will be enough to boil the vegetable a little or cook it for a couple. After the first use of a new product, you need to monitor the reaction of the animal and, in case of allergies, contact your veterinarian immediately. But this product should not be given to a cat. If she accidentally ate asparagus, she should immediately be taken to the veterinarian.

Interesting Asparagus Facts

1. Peru is a leading global exporter of asparagus.
2. Residents of Germany eat only white asparagus.
3. Asparagus was first grown in Greece nearly 2500 years ago.
4. Nefertiti is said to have declared asparagus the food of the gods.

Asparagus photo