Ingredients:

• 2 pounds pencil asparagus
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Clean asparagus and break off the tough ends.
2. Roll asparagus in olive oil. Try coating each one.
3. Place asparagus on cookie sheet.
4. Bake at 400 F. for 15-20 minutes, until tender and crisp.
5. Take out and sprinkle parmesan cheese over them.
6. Return to oven for 5 minutes.

Yield:

8 servings (5-7 spears)

Nutrition Tip

Asparagus is associated with providing antioxidants in addition to offering potent anti-viral properties. According to the National Cancer Institute, asparagus contains the highest level of glutathione among tested foods. Glutathione is naturally synthesized in the body and has antioxidant properties. Asparagus contains more than twice the amount of glutathione present in any other common, tested food.