It starts with a crunch and finishes buttery and smooth, like a cross between a snap pea and an artichoke. A perfect complement to rich sauces and light dressings alike, asparagus is available year-round in the US as an import from warmer climates. But during spring and early summer, the freshly picked, locally grown varieties burst with a delicately sweet, earthy flavor unmatched by the long-distance travelers of autumn and winter. No comparison.
The Mindful Kitchen Recipe: Try shaved asparagus salad
Savor asparagus season with a simple salad of raw, thinly shaved spears. Grab a bunch of the thicker spears (go with green or purple, not white) and run a vegetable peeler down the length of each to create ribbons. Toss with the juice of half a lemon and a glug of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, toss in some shaved or grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition info
Asparagus is an impressive source of many nutrients: vitamins K and C, folate, copper, and most B vitamins, to name a few. It’s also high in flavonoids that offer heart-protective benefits.
Read More
The Mindful Kitchen
In the kitchen, we can connect with our senses, gather with loved ones, and find moments of joy. Explore our guide to eating, cooking, and savouring—the mindful way. Read More 
The Mindful Kitchen: Being with a Cup of Cocoa
Warm up with a hot chocolate recipe made just the way you like it—use this guide to layer aromas, flavors, and textures. Read More
The Mindful Kitchen: How to Be Mindful When Opening a Pomegranate
Opening a pomegranate can seem a messy and meticulous task, but it can also be a beautiful and fun experience to savor. Bring some festive color into your life with this simple technique. Read More
