A changing season means a changing list of ingredients for a fresh meal. With spring in full swing, the garden is flourishing and producing some delicious edibles. It's just one more reason to love this time of year, besides the hope of sunshine.

Produce is always less expensive when purchased in season, not to mention a whole lot fresher, which means a whole lot healthier! There's less freezing and storing, so the nutrients stay packed in right where you need them.

There's no short supply of local farmers markets around town, so take advantage of the spring bounty. If you're new to eating locally, or in season, take note of the list below. These fruits and veggies are extra delectable this time of year, specifically in the Pacific Northwest.

Arugula
Asparagus
Chard
Collard greens
Edible flowers
Fava beans
Fiddleheads
Garlic
Kale
Rhubarb
Wild mushrooms

This season, Club dietitian Cindy Farricker recommends asparagus. "The delicious young shoots are rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, potassium and fiber. In fact, asparagus has more of the B vitamin folate than almost any other vegetable," she said.

She recommends taking the time to find freshly harvested asparagus because its taste is unmatched. "Asparagus is a delicate vegetable, deteriorating rapidly after harvest, making it one of the most perishable crops—starches and sugars break down quickly, altering its flavor," said Cindy. So whether it's at a roadside vegetable stand, a farmers market or your local grocery store, make sure it's fresh.  

Once you gather the veggie, try this recipe, recommended by Cindy for healthy eating.

Broiled Asparagus
4 servings
1 pound fresh asparagus, ends trimmed
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Kosher salt* and black pepper

1. Heat broiler. Pile asparagus on rimmed baking sheet, arranging side-by-side in the same direction. Drizzle with olive oil and roll spears to coat. 

2. Spread asparagus in a single layer on baking sheet, season with salt and pepper. Broil about 5 inches from heat, shaking occasionally until asparagus turns bright green and is slightly charred in spots (about 6-8 minutes).

3. Serve immediately.

Nutrition per serving (6 average spears): calories 44, fat 3g, saturated fat 0g, cholesterol 0mg, carbs 5g, fiber 2g, protein 2g, sodium 240mg*

*Use Mrs. Dash seasoning along with black pepper to reduce sodium to 0mg per serving.

Stop by Polaris Grill and Splash to try new additions to the menus. We're continually updating our recipes to ensure the best ingredients, and we're always happy to pass on our seasonal favorites to you.