Scampi Stalks (Roasted Asparagus Fries)

June 2016 | Recipes

These days our grocery stores and farm markets are overflowing with bundles of asparagus. Those spiky green stalks provide so many options when it comes to side dishes. While I typically tend to prefer steaming them in my official asparagus steamer, Mr E doesn’t share my appreciation for simple and perfectly steamed veggies. If they don’t have a little something going on, he’ll make his, “I’ll eat it, but I don’t have to like it” face. And that’s where some creativity kicked in.

I decided to oven-bake the asparagus to make them more like “fries” than just a veggie side dish. And I did it with the help of some Wildtree spice blends to up the asparagus fries flavor factor for Mr E. I decided to try the Scampi Blend, which has a light buttery flavor without adding the same amount of calories as butter itself does – only 10 calories per teaspoon, and not a whole lot else, so it’s a low risk way to pack in flavor. ORDER SCAMPI BLEND.

Asparagus is already loaded with nutrients, from vitamin K to folate and popular antioxidants like vitamins C, beta-carotene, vitamin E and minerals zinc, manganese, and selenium. These play a role in anti- asparagus fries inflammatory and anti-oxidant benefits. In particular, one specific nutrient called sarsasapogenin that has demonstrated a link to ALS (commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s Disease) by preventing inflammation, and ultimately death, of certain neurons. And that stringy texture asparagus can sometimes have? That’s part of a fiber called inulin, which serves as a powerful prebiotic by helping form healthy gut bacteria shown to help with better nutrient absorption and lower risk of some allergies and colon cancer. The high fiber and protein contents of asparagus also play a role in heart health, steady blood sugar, and weight management.

asparagus fries

These scampi stalks just require a simple prep and bake. Wash, rinse, and snap off the bottom tough part of the stalk (it will naturally break off at the perfect place). I get them roasting while I finish up the main meal protein, and they’re ready to go hot and crisp from the oven with the rest of the meal. Roast them on parchment paper or non-stick foil for minimal clean-up. Or keep your kitchen cool on a hot summer day by throwing these on the grill. Serve some up today and enjoy this “fry” alternative!

RECOMMENDED ITEMS: Baking sheet, colander, olive oil mister

Serve these Scampi Stalks with any grilled fish, poultry or meat dish. Order your Scampi Blend here. Tell me what you think of this “fry” replacement. Share on social media tagging me using #Foodandmovement.