Asparagus Schmaragus

It has taken me some time to come around to Asparagus.  As a kid, my Mom and Dad would hover over their Creamed Asparagus on Toast like it was the most precious and delectable meal known to man.  My sister and I didn't get it.  We would always have to "just try it!", but we just didn't like it...no matter how hard we tried.
But, there is reward for persistence!  I have come to enjoy asparagus over the last few years. (I figure as a local food activist, I kind of have to! :)

For me, it really came down to 2 things...1.  impatience at waiting for good, local food (after a  loooong winter of imported veggies), 2. experimenting with recipes--reaching outside of that "steam your asparagus" box.

Here is a brand new recipe I developed last night for dinner-I did make it as a side dish, but it was so delicious, next time it will be the entree!

Most Delicious Asparagus 

1 pound of Asparagus (woody ends cut off, and cut on an angle into 2 inch pieces)
4-5 wild leeks (ramps) sliced 
2 green onions chopped roughly
1/2 cup walnut pieces
zest of one lemon (and a good squeeze of juice)
pepper to taste
1/4 cup feta crumbled.

Saute asparagus and ramps together in a little butter until asparagus is tender crisp. ( about 5 minutes)   Add green onions, walnut, lemon zest and lemon juice, saute for one minute.  Take off heat, add feta and pepper, toss and serve immediately.

Tip:  don't have ramps?  You can substitute garlic if you like and/or leeks for the green onions too!

My New Love

I have a new love...I can't get enough of it.  Small and unassuming it may be, but mighty it is.

 Ch-ch-ch-chia.

What?  Not sure you want to snack on your Chia Pet?   Not tried this before?  Not to worry, until last week, I had not either.  But let me assure you, Chia seeds are where it's at.  Love, Love , Love!

If  you are unfamiliar with Chia seeds, here is the low-down on this nutrition super-power:

Ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures treasured the tiny chia seed. From the Mayan word for ‘strength’, chia seeds are very nutritious, best known as a super rich source of protein. A member of the mint family, the seeds are bursting with Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids, fiber, and B vitamins.

Chia seeds have a very mild flavor and are easy to add to your meals. Sprinkle them in salads, cereals or blend them into your favorite smoothie. If you soak them in water, the seeds plump up into a thick jello-like consistency.

...which makes them perfect for this easy dessert.  ...and it is so good for you, you can even eat your "dessert" for breakfast, like I do!


Chia Vanilla Pudding

1/4 cup chia seeds
1 1/2 cup milk (soy, nut or regular--whatever you prefer)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla

Mix all ingredients and let sit overnight in the fridge.  (give a little stir after the mixture has been in the fridge for an hour or so, to make sure they seeds don't clump up).  That's eat--superfood, made super easy!

Tips: 
* if it is too thick, add a little more milk before eating.
*Top it with fruit for a great breakfast.
*Warm slightly if you like a warm breakfast--then add nuts or top with a little yogurt.
*some recipes call for the chia to sit for only an hour-don't be fooled, it needs to sit for longer than that to have a chance to absorb all the milk...