The name Asparagus comes from the Greek word meaning “shoot” or “sprout.”
The shoots grow from a crown planted in sandy soil and can grow 10 inches in a 24-hours under the ideal weather conditions.
There are three colors of the plant, white, purple and the most common color, green.
White – Purple – Green Asparagus
White asparagus is more delicate and difficult to harvest, and the purple variety is smaller and fruitier tasting.
Nutritional Value of Asparagus
This vegetable’s profile is one of the most nutritionally and well-balanced of most eatable vegetables.
It is high in folic acid and a good source of potassium , fiber, thiamin, and vitamins A, B6, C,E, and in smaller amounts, iron, zinc and riboflavin.
It’s an excellent source of vitamin K, an essential nutrient involved in blood clotting and bone health (Source: National Library of Medicine).
Asparagus contains high amounts of flavonoids, and these plant chemicals have been found to help lower blood pressure.
Research suggests that increasing potassium intake while reducing salt intake is an effective way to lower high blood pressure.
And that’s good reason for you to prepare a plate of Ham Asparagus Alfredo.
1 lb. jumbo asparagus, ends trimmed
2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 oz. cream cheese, room temperature
1/3 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp. Himalayan salt
Freshly ground black pepper
8 ounce cooked ham, chopped or 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
Grated Parmesan, for serving
Using a julienne peeler, peel asparagus into long, thin strips by holding the asparagus by its tip to keep it steady while peeling.
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Next add heavy cream and cream cheese and cook until cream cheese is completely melted.
Next add mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
Place another large skillet over medium heat and heat remaining tablespoon of oil.
Next add asparagus noodles and cook until tender, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Using tongs, plate asparagus (between 3-4 plates) and spoon Alfredo sauce over top.
Serve topped with cooked ham and Parmesan cheese.