Roasted Asparagus March 13, 2008

Sometimes it just doesn’t take any effort at all to make one flavorful and savory dish. Roasting asparagus in the oven just happens to be one of those times. Asparagus is not only available all year round, but it is ridiculously delicious and makes an amazing side to any main course (oh and PS: it’s loaded in vitamins and antioxidants…).

Ingredients:
1 bunch of thin asparagus stalks
olive oil
Coarse sea salt
fresh pepper

Directions:
1) Wash asparagus, cut off hard ends (usually about an inch or so), and place on a cookie sheet.
2) Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, and place under broiler in oven for about 10 minutes, turning 1/2 way through.
3) Serve hot.

“Couldn’t Be Easier” Avocado Salad

This salad has 4 main ingredients, and makes one hellova healthy start to any meal. It is so quick and easy and tasty, and is rich in vitamins and creamy avocado goodness.

Ingredients:
1 large head romaine lettuce
1 large tomato chopped
1 small red bell pepper, cut very thinly
1/2 medium avocado, cut into chunks
2 TBSP coarsely chopped walnuts (optional)

Dressing:
2 TBSP lemon juice
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
extra virgin olive oil, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:
1) Chop romaine leaves into bite size portions, and rinse in cold water (or spin lettuce dry, if you have a salad spinner).
2) Place all salad ingredients into a bowl.
3) In a separate small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper and toss with salad greens (sprinkle with chopped walnuts, if you wish).