Asparagus harvesting is a sure sign of spring
Asparagus is our Day Two Think Spring surprise. Asparagus is harvested in the spring and speaks springtime to me. It is always considered when planning our Easter dinner. I’m trying to bring something into our life each day for 5 days that evoke that springtime feel. It is definitely needed today as it is still snowing. Oh my!
Asparagus grows wild in Wisconsin. You can find it where there is full sun, like in a ditch or at the side of a country road. If you are asparagus hunting, just make sure you aren’t trespassing on private land! I’m not sure the asparagus could even be found today with the amount of snow we have on the ground.
Asparagus is packed with all sorts of nutrients. Those of us with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) would be pleased to learn these nutritional benefits. According to the University of Wisconsin Extension here are some of the goods this bright green veggie contains:
- Vitamin A- good for vision and healthy skin
- Vitamin E- strengthens immune system
- Vitamin C- a powerful antioxidant fighting free radicals
- Vitamin K- involved in blood coagulation
- Fiber- soluble and insoluble. The body digests fiber slower making you feel fuller. The fiber also helps with constipation
- Folic Acid- prevents birth defects
This vegetable that is full of good-for-you vitamins can be roasted, grilled or steamed. I’m keeping it simple by steaming the stalks and drizzling butter over the beautiful veggie. I will top it off with zest from a lemon. Yummy for sure!
Now days asparagus is available year around. For me it is still a springtime treat. I associate it with this time of the year. This is how I am bringing spring into my life today. It is still cold, gray, cloudy, snowy and on and on here in Wisconsin. The robins are even confused by this weather. I have to play a “mind game” to keep spring in my thoughts. I need my mood lifted to better my mental and emotional health. That in turn helps my body deal with my RA better. And that is using Arthritis Wisdom!
Have a fabulous Day Two Think Spring! And take good care of yourself!
XXOO Cathy