Asparagus is one of the top vegetables to enjoy during spring as this vegetable sprouts up from the ground this season symbolizing new growth and a time of change. We roasted some fresh asparagus for a softer texture, then paired it with vibrant lemon zest and our mild, probiotic Lifeway Farmer Cheese that’s rich with a creamy texture and is a great source of complete protein. Top it with ground black pepper, sea salt, and a squeeze of lemon and extra-virgin olive oil before enjoying. The prebiotic fiber in asparagus works seamlessly with the probiotic cultures we use in Lifeway Farmer Cheese to feed your gut bacteria and nourish your microbiome. We’ll toast to that!
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health. Lifeway Farmer Cheese is also a great source of all these nutrients, just in a different format for all the cheese lovers out there.
Prep Time: 10 mins Servings: 2Ingredients
- 2 pieces sourdough bread
- 6-8 fresh asparagus spears
- 1-2 tsp. extra virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper
- 1 tsp. fresh lemon zest
- juice from 1/2 a lemon
- 1/2 cup Farmer Cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees, Fahrenheit. On a baking sheet, add parchment paper and the asparagus spears, then add the juice of a lemon on top and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast for 6-7 minutes until the asparagus is just blackened, but not too dark (you just want it to be roasted but not toasted!). Remove the asparagus from the oven and let cool for 5 mins,
- Toast your sourdough bread (if preferred), then spread Lifeway Farmer Cheese on top. Top it with the roasted asparagus, fresh lemon zest, and drizzle with olive oil (and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired). Sprinkle with additional black pepper and enjoy!
