Why you should learn to love asparagus

What is asparagus? - Asparagus is among the most delicious and seasonal vegetable harvests.

Spring treat - Asparagus is primarily a springtime delicacy. In the United Kingdom, the asparagus season lasts from May to June. In the United States, the asparagus harvest is variable.

Year-round vegetable - Actually, though, this edible member of the flowering plant family Asparagaceae is now so widely cultivated that it is available during every season.

Colorful veg - Asparagus is available in three colors—purple, green, and white.

Health benefits of asparagus - Asparagus is low in calories and packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In a word, it's a superfood!

Helps with weight loss - Asparagus can help with weight loss. One cup (135 grams) of uncooked asparagus contains just 27 calories and 2.8 grams of fiber.

Asparagus nutrition - Vitamins A, C, E, and K are found in the same cup, together with protein, potassium, phosphorus, and folate. Fat content measures a meager 0.2 grams.

Other nutrients - Asparagus also possesses small amounts of other micronutrients, including iron, zinc, and riboflavin.

Asparagus and UTIs - The health benefits of asparagus extend to it serving as a natural diuretic, meaning it can help flush excess fluid and salt from your body.

May help fight cancer - Eating asparagus may therefore be effective against certain forms of cancer, bone cancer for example, and lung cancer.

A powerful antioxidant - In fact, asparagus is such a powerful antioxidant that it's known for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals, thus affording cellular protection.

Helps support a healthy pregnancy - As an essential nutrient, folate is especially important during the early stages of pregnancy to ensure the healthy development of the baby.

Can improve digestive health - Asparagus is great for the gut and and works as an important source of insoluble dietary fiber that can help relieve indigestion.

Easy to add to your diet - Asparagus is easy to incorporate into your diet. When purchased fresh from a farmers' market or grocery store, it should be eaten straight away.

Cooking with asparagus - One of the best things about asparagus is it's simple to prepare.

Asparagus recipes - Asparagus makes a super-green, super-tasty, low-calorie vegetable soup.

Asparagus risotto - An inspired Italian dish, this asparagus risotto recipe idea can be created in minutes. Use a splash of white wine in the cooking, and top with grated Parmesan.

Asparagus omelet - Looking for a light and healthy lunchtime meal idea? Rustle up an omelet using asparagus and pesto, and garnish with Parmesan and crunchy sesame seeds.