Asparagus the aphrodisiac

Google the health benefits of asparagus and you will find multiple articles (1,790,000 pages to be exact) discussing this subject.  From its antioxidant benefits to detoxifying properties, asparagus packs a big nutrient punch.  Not only is asparagus easy to make and delicious, but it is said to have aphrodisiac qualities.  Another reason to indulge in some healthy greens, a nice glass of wine, and some chocolate dipped strawberries...  Can you feel the love?
  

Ingredients:

• One bunch asparagus

• 1-2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (or enough to coat the asparagus)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1-2 teaspoons Herbs de Provence

• 1-2 teaspoons grated or shredded Parmesan cheese

• Lemon juice, to taste

Instructions:
Preheat oven to 425 degrees.  While oven is heating rinse and dry the asparagus.  Either trim the thick fibrous ends or do what Elle Woods and I do: bend and snap.  Fresh asparagus will snap the delicious green stems from the fibrous root.  

On a parchment lined baking sheet spread out prepped asparagus.

Drizzle olive oil to coat asparagus.  Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper and Herbs de Provence.  Note: You can also omit the herbs for the salt and pepper or season with your favorite flavors.  

Cook asparagus for 5-15 minutes, or until tender. 

Once cooked, sprinkle with lemon juice and Parmesan cheese.  Serve with your choice of entree and a nice Chardonnay.