When it comes to our food choices, it’s easy to get lost in the mass of information available to us. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, gain muscle, lower your cholesterol, or just maintain a healthy diet, it’s hard to know where to start. I think we can all agree that we’re constantly being introduced to the newest diet fad or pill through magazines, billboards, and TV commercials and all those differing definitions of health can start to make our heads spin! It’s obvious that it isn’t rational to try to mold our eating habits into every diet shoved in our faces, so where does that leave us? In my opinion, one diet doesn’t fit all and we should strive to develop eating habits that are sustainable for ourselves and make us feel comfortable in our own skin. Instead of trying to fit into someone else’s ideal diet, create one that works for you!
While everyone’s definition of healthy eating is different, I personally find that eating a combination of lean meats, whole grains, a variety of vegetables, and yes, even indulgent treats and meals every once and a while, leave me feeling at my best. I’m able to maintain my healthy weight and energy levels while not feeling deprived by balancing food that is nourishing and food that is comforting. One of my favorite ways to accomplish this is to simply add in a healthy and filling vegetable side dish, like this Simple Garlic Roasted Asparagus, to go along with my meals. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but the dish is also low in calories which helps bulk up the amount of food I get to eat and leads to much more satisfying meals. Who says you only can eat a small plate for dinner? Feel free to load it up with a delicious side dish that will do wonders for your health and keep your stomach from rumbling an hour after dinner!
If you’ve never tasted asparagus before, you’re in for a treat. The vegetable has a unique flavor and texture that make it special enough for company, but easy enough for any week night meal as well! While asparagus might seem like a fancy and hard-to-prepare dish, it actually couldn’t be easier and is ready in just 20 minutes with minimal hassle and clean up. Sounds to good to be true, right? But wait, there’s more! Not only is it downright delicious, but eating asparagus is a great way to get in extra nutrients as well. In fact, according to www.asparagus.org, “Asparagus is one of the most nutritionally well-balanced vegetables in existence”, and for good reason. The garden plant is chock full of antioxidants, vitamin B, fiber, and many other nutrients that make up an impressive list of benefits. All of these benefits come together to make a powerhouse veggie that serves to reduce the chance of heart disease and type 2 diabetes, regulate blood sugar levels, and help keep your digestive system running smoothly.
This recipe focuses on maintaining the simple but mouthwatering taste of asparagus while also bringing out the natural sugars and adding a boost of flavor from garlic. The preparation is incredibly easy and fast and the minimal ingredients let the main ingredient shine through! The end result is a meal that you can’t get enough of and it will be the first dish to disappear off your table, even with picky eaters!
Not only is it downright delicious, but eating asparagus is a great way to get in extra nutrients as well.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh asparagus
- 3 cloves garlic, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
- Cut off the end of the stalks of the asparagus and toss with the garlic, olive oil, italian seasoning, and salt and pepper, coating everything evenly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until fork tender.
Notes
None
Christine is a health and body image activist who is passionate about creating recipes that combine delicious and fresh ingredients with nutrition. Located on the coast of California, she enjoys spending time hiking, exploring new restaurants, and leading an active lifestyle. She is currently studying to become a physical therapist and runs her own growing food and fitness blog, Apple of My... Read More
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