Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau
explores the benefits of incorporating another healthy ingredient into our diets. This month she’s focusing in on asparagus
As the seasons shift and lighter meals start to replace hearty winter stews and Sunday roasts, asparagus steps in as one of spring’s most powerful, and delicious, health heroes. Often called a nutritional powerhouse, this vibrant green vegetable does more than just brighten up your plate!
Rich in folate, vitamin K and vitamin C, asparagus supports everything from heart health to healthy skin. Its high fibre content aids digestion, while its natural antioxidant compounds help protect cells from damage. It’s also a natural diuretic, which can help reduce bloating and support kidney function, making it especially welcome after a heavier winter diet.
Another reason to love it? Asparagus is incredibly low in calories and carbohydrates, making it ideal for anyone following a lighter or more plant-forward way of eating. It’s also a great choice for those supporting hormonal balance and reproductive health, thanks to its folate levels.
This easy, nourishing recipe brings together asparagus with other nutrient-dense ingredients – new potatoes for complex carbs and potassium, soft-boiled eggs for protein and healthy fats, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette that helps your body absorb key vitamins. It’s a light, feel-good dish that works just as well as a post-workout lunch as it does a relaxed dinner at home.
Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com
Zesty asparagus salad
Serves 2-3
- 1 bunch locally grown asparagus, woody ends trimmed
- 300g new potatoes, like Jersey Royals, halved
- 2-3 free-range eggs
- a handful of baby spinach or rocket
- small bunch of fresh chives, finely chopped
- sea salt & black pepper
For the vinaigrette:
- 1 tsp wholegrain mustard
- juice of ½ lemon
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp honey
- salt and black pepper
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 12–15 mins). Drain and set aside.
- Soft-boil the eggs, for approximately 6½ minutes. Transfer immediately to cold water. Peel and halve.
- Blanch the asparagus: Bring a pan of water to a boil, cook spears for 2–3 mins until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking.
- Make the dressing: Whisk together mustard, lemon juice, honey, and olive oil. Season to taste.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and asparagus with the dressing. Add spinach and chopped chives. Top with egg halves and a little more dressing if desired. Finish with a crack of black pepper.
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