Roasted Asparagus with Lentils

serves 2. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, asparagus is a natural detoxifier; it also contains inulin, a carbohydrate that increases beneficial gut flora. Cayenne pepper, surprisingly, is healing for your innards, unlike other peppers, which can irritate.

3/4 cup dried red lentils
1 1/2 cups water
2 large cloves garlic (or more to taste), minced
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 bunch asparagus, tough ends trimmed
olive oil cooking spray
zest of 1 medium lemon
juice of 1/2 medium lemon
1 cup cooked brown rice
4 green onions, green tops only, finely chopped

1. In a small saucepan, combine lentils, water, garlic, cayenne, and coriander. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer steadily for about 15 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, preheat broiler and place oven rack as close to heat as possible. Spray a baking sheet with oil; spread asparagus on it in a single layer. Coat asparagus with cooking spray and sprinkle with salt and pepper. When broiler is very hot, cook asparagus 3-5 minutes, until crisp. Remove from oven and transfer to a large platter to cool a bit. Add half of lemon zest and juice, tossing to distribute flavors.

3. when lentils are tender, stir in cooked rice and green onions. Add salt and pepper to taste. To serve, fill two shallow bowls with rice mixture and top with roasted asparagus; drizzle remaining lemon zest and juice all over.

recipe from: Delicious Living March 2008