Asparagus has many health benefits and tastes fantastic in a multitude of recipes.
Luckily around this time of year, Ontario has an abundance of vegetables that are in season, namely asparagus. It’s incredible in a nicoise salad- but it’s also a great side for a grilled steak dinner.
Not to mention asparagus is delicious, highly nutritious, and has multiple health benefits. When it’s locally grown in season, the taste and crunchy texture are incomparable to when grown at other times of the year.
If you’re looking to secure some local asparagus You can visit an online vegetable store and order a veg box. These delivery services will have relationships with local farmers.
With the veggies being in season here, you can enjoy local Ontario asparagus as much as you like.
Wondering why now is the time to buy Ontario asparagus? Learn all about it below, along with the laundry list of health benefits below!
All You Need to Know About Ontario Asparagus
Where is Ontario asparagus grown?
Ontario asparagus is mainly grown in Norfolk County. In fact, Norfolk County is home to eighty asparagus growers. It means that more than three-quarters of Ontario asparagus is produced there.
If you are lucky enough to live in the proximity of the town of Simcoe or Hamilton, you can enjoy eating raw asparagus straight from the field.
And even if you are not - it’s easy to get the best produce boxes from an Ontario vegetable delivery service.
When is Ontario asparagus harvested and where to find it?
Ontario asparagus is harvested from May to June when only a few other crops are available.
That’s why summer is the best time to eat Ontario asparagus.
During the asparagus season, you can find it in most local farmer's markets in Ontario. Or, you can order a farmer’s veg box from a produce delivery service and have local vegetables delivered to your door - including the freshly picked asparagus.
What are the Health Benefits of Ontario Asparagus?
Ontario Asparagus is packed with nutrients and boasts a long list of health benefits.
#1 - Low in calories, high in nutritional value
Asparagus has few calories and a number of beneficial nutrients, including:
- Vitamins C, A, E, K, and B6
- Folate,
- Potassium,
- Phosphorus
There is some iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and riboflavin as well.
This equals a healthy source of energy. Due to its nutritional composition, asparagus will keep you feeling full, but without the unwanted calories and fat.
#2 - Vital for a healthy pregnancy
Folate is particularly important for pregnant women because they are affected by hormonal changes.
Also known as vitamin B9, it supports vital processes in the body, such as cell growth and DNA formation. During the early stages of pregnancy, folate secures the proper development of the baby.
Namely, half a cup of asparagus delivers 34% of your daily folate needs. If you are pregnant, the same amount of asparagus will satisfy 22% of your everyday needs.
#3 - An excellent source of antioxidants
Asparagus is a powerhouse of antioxidants that protect your cells from being damaged by free radicals and oxidative stress.
As a result, it can help prevent premature aging, chronic inflammation, viruses, and cancer. In addition, anthocyanin found in asparagus gives you a helping hand in reducing blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
#4 - Improving digestive health
With 1.8 grams of fiber in a half-cup, asparagus helps maintain good digestive health.
A fiber-rich diet reduces the risk of bloating, constipation, heartburn, and the feeling of dullness.
#5 - Helping in the prevention of heart diseases and stroke
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Asparagus is rich in potassium which helps lower high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessel walls and eliminating excess salt through urine.
Especially when the temperatures start to climb, you’ll find that this asparagus benefit prevents the major threats to your health.
#6 - Helps avoid dehydration
Fluids in your cup will not be enough to rehydrate you especially during warmer temperatures. To maintain your fluid intake high up, you’ll need to consume the right veggies and fruit, too.
Asparagus’ high water content will keep you hydrated and cool, and that’s what we all need in the scorching heat.
How to Incorporate Asparagus into Your Diet?
You can eat asparagus on its own or combine it with other ingredients in a number of tasty dishes such as soup, salad, pasta, stir-fry, tart, etc. It’s a great side dish on its own too.
If you are out of ideas, one of the simplest ways to wow your guests at outdoor dinner parties is to serve Prosciutto-wrapped asparagus as an appetizer. It is a crowd-pleaser that does not require you to spend hours in the kitchen.
The list of yummy asparagus dishes is endless. The asparagus season is on, and you can try them all out to find your favorite.
In Summary
Asparagus is a highly versatile and nutritious vegetable that you can enjoy. The best time of year to eat asparagus in Ontario is now- this is when there’s a noticeable difference in taste, texture and size!
Not to mention, asparagus has many nutritional properties that are beneficial to your health.
If you’re looking to purchase legitimate farm-to-table Ontario asparagus, you can have a veg box delivered to your door. You’ll be able to enjoy it in all your favourite salads, or as a side while reaping all the health benefits.
Want to order Ontario asparagus? Order a box today!