* 2 Packages (10 oz) frozen cut asparagus can be substitued for the fresh asparagus. Cook as directed on package; drain.

Place steamer basket in 1/2" water in saucepan or skillet (water should not touch the bottom of basket). Place lower stalk pieces in basket. Cover tightly and heat to boiling; reduce heat. Steam 4 minutes. Add tips. Cover tightly and steam until crisp-tender, 4 to 5 minutes longer. Toss asparagus with parsley, lemon juice and salt. Sprinkle with bacon.

Microwave Directions: Place asparagus, 1/2 cup water and 1/4 teaspoon salt in 1 1/2-quart microwable casserole. Cover tightly and microwave on high(100% depending how powerful the microwave is) 3 minutes, less if very powerful( my microwave is an older one..in fact 20 years); stir. Cover and microwave until crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes longer. Let stand 1 munites; drain. Continue as directed. Serving size 3/4 cup.

Food Exchanges per serving: 1 Vegetable Exchanges + Maybe 1/2 High-Fat Meat Exchange; Cal: 75; (Bacon listed as Saturated Fat, but we wouldn't use it anyhow would we).

Brought to you and yours via Nancy O'Brion and her Meal-Master