YEY for March! The weather is slowly warming, and we can’t wait for the fresh veggies of spring. To get us in the mood, here is a super side we love to prepare. This dish is an awesome way to clean out some of the bits and pieces of herbs that may be lurking in your crisper drawer.

Fresh Herbs of any kind not only ramp up flavor but nutrition, too! They often contain higher antioxidant levels compared to processed or dried herbs. Consuming herbs may help to prevent and manage heart disease, cancer and diabetes. It may also help to reduce blood clots and provide anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Research is ongoing on the health benefits of fresh herbs.

Artichokes, Green Beans and Asparagus with Almonds

4 Cups Frozen Artichoke Hearts, defrosted

2 Cups Green Beans

2 Cups Chopped Asparagus

3 TB Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided

Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

*1 Recipe Roasted Almonds with Herbs

Preheat the oven to 400F. Place the artichoke hearts, beans and asparagus each on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Slide into the hot oven and roast for 20 – 30 minutes or until golden around the edges. Toss together in a bowl with the roasted almonds.

*Roasted Almonds with Fresh Herbs

2 Cups Sliced or Slivered Almonds

1 Tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 TB Chopped Fresh Herbs

Sea Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper

Put the almonds on a sheet tray and slide into a preheated 400F oven. Roast for 5 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the almonds. Remove from the oven, spray or drizzle the almonds with the oil and toss with the fresh herbs. Season to taste with salt and pepper.