Asparagus, on sale at local supermarkets, is a good source of vitamin A.
Asparagus, on sale at local supermarkets, is a good source of vitamin A.
Choose firm, bright green (or pale ivory) stalks with tight tips. Asparagus is best cooked the same day it's bought but will keep, tightly wrapped in a plastic bag, for three or four days in the refrigerator.
Wash the tips thoroughly to remove any sandy soil. Remove any tough outer fibers with a vegetable peeler.
Asparagus, a member of the lily family, is a good source of vitamin A and offers fair amounts of iron and vitamins B and C.
Other produce best buys include tomatoes at 89 cents a pound at IGH (Independent Grocers of Hawaii) stores and, at Foodland, $2.99 for 2-1/2 pounds of Island Fresh tomatoes ($1.20 a pound).
Safeway features corn at two for a dollar and string beans at 99 cents a pound. Broccoli is 59 cents a pound at Star, 67 cents at Sack N Save, 69 cents at IGH, and 89 cents at Foodland. And, cantaloupe costs 68 and 69 cents a pound at Daiei and IGH, respectively.
Serve asparagus in a Spring Stalker special:
1 pound asparagus, washed and trimmedSteam asparagus over hot water for about 7 minutes, depending on thickness of spears, then drain. Whisk together remaining ingredients and spoon over asparagus, turning to coat. Makes 2 servings.
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sweet hot mustard
1 teaspoon grated orange rind