Source: blog.giallozafferano.it

PRESENTATION

A nourishing appetizer made with asparagus, puff pastry, extra virgin olive oil, and pepper.

INGREDIENTS:

18 asparagus spears

1 sheet/roll of puff pastry

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

A pinch of pepper

METOD

Trim and wash the asparagus.
Cut off the woody ends of the stalks.
Peel each asparagus spear from the middle of the stalk downward.
Rinse under cold water.
Cook the asparagus whole in a covered pan until just tender.
Season with a very small amount of olive oil and a pinch of pepper.
Unroll the puff pastry and cut it into strips.
Wrap each asparagus spear with a strip of puff pastry.
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes, just until the puff pastry is golden.

ALLERGENS:

Asparagus: possible reactivity in individuals allergic to birch pollen.

Extra virgin olive oil: allergy is uncommon; intolerance not reported.

Puff pastry: contains gluten from cereals and butter, which contains milk allergens.

Pepper (green, pink, black, gray, white): possible cross-reactivity in individuals with spice intolerance.

NOTE

Prepare and handle under strict hygienic conditions.

Nutritional benefits of the ingredients:

• Asparagus: rich in carotenoids that support immune function; also suitable for kidney patients; beneficial for liver function due to their vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content; provide folic acid, which is linked to serotonin production and therefore supports good mood and helps counteract depression.
• Extra virgin olive oil: a source of vitamin E that protects the immune system from harmful fatty acids.
• Puff pastry: provides cereals that stimulate serotonin synthesis, supporting mood and well-being; the butter it contains is a source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), beneficial for eye health, mucous membranes, bones, immune function, and blood clotting.
• Pepper: contains piperine, a powerful antioxidant that improves insulin sensitivity, lowers cholesterol levels, and stimulates metabolism; recommended for individuals with cardiovascular problems.

SAFETY / INTENDED USE

May also be suitable in cases of:
• Anorexia – weight loss
• Constipation
• Xerostomia (dry mouth)

Not recommended in cases of:
• Dysphagia (chewing and swallowing difficulties)
• Mucositis, due to acidity