Asparagus With Garlic and Basil (Diabetic)

Asparagus With Garlic and Basil 🌱😋

What is it?
Asparagus With Garlic and Basil is a delicious and healthy dish that features tender asparagus spears flavored with the aromatic combination of garlic and fresh basil. This recipe is suitable for individuals with diabetes as it’s low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a diabetic-friendly meal plan.

History:
Asparagus has been consumed for centuries and is believed to have originated in the eastern Mediterranean and Asia. It was highly prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans for its taste and purported medicinal properties. The pairing of asparagus with garlic and basil is a modern twist on a classic combination of flavors from the Mediterranean region, known for its delicious and wholesome cuisine.

Components:
To prepare Asparagus With Garlic and Basil, you’ll need the following components:

• Fresh asparagus spears
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prep the Asparagus: Begin by washing the asparagus thoroughly. Snap off the tough woody ends by bending the spears until they naturally break at the tender point. Discard the woody ends.

2. Chop the Garlic: Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. You can use as much or as little garlic as you prefer, depending on your taste.

3. Prepare the Basil: Wash and chop the fresh basil leaves. You can also leave some whole leaves for garnish.

4. Cooking the Asparagus: Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic and sauté for a minute or two until it becomes fragrant but not browned.

5. Add the Asparagus: Add the prepared asparagus to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the asparagus becomes tender and slightly charred.

6. Stir in Basil: Just before removing from the heat, stir in the chopped basil leaves. This will add a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.

7. Serve: Plate the asparagus with garlic and basil, garnish with some whole basil leaves, and serve immediately.

Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare this dish is approximately 15-20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a side dish for a special occasion.

Enjoy your Asparagus With Garlic and Basil! 🍽️😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Asparagus With Garlic and Basil:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 serving):

• Calories: 50-60 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Total Fat: 4-5 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
• Sodium: 150-200 mg (depending on added salt)
• Potassium: 200-300 mg
• Vitamin A: About 15% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: About 15% of the DV
• Folate: About 20% of the DV

Health Information:

1. Low in Calories: Asparagus is a low-calorie vegetable, making it a great choice for those looking to manage their weight.

2. High in Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health and helps in controlling blood sugar levels.

3. Low in Carbohydrates: Asparagus is relatively low in carbohydrates, which can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes as it has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels.

4. Rich in Vitamins: Asparagus is rich in essential vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which is important for eye health, and vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

5. Good Source of Folate: Asparagus contains folate, an essential B-vitamin that is important for cell division and can be beneficial for pregnant women.

6. Potassium Content: Asparagus is a source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid balance.

7. Heart-Healthy: The combination of asparagus, garlic, and olive oil in this recipe provides healthy fats and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for heart health.

8. Low in Saturated Fat: This recipe is low in saturated fat, which is good for heart health.

Remember that the nutrition values can vary based on the portion size and specific ingredients used. Asparagus with garlic and basil is a nutritious and tasty dish that can be part of a balanced diabetic meal plan when consumed in moderation.