Minted Chicken With Asparagus

They had me at mint (though I prefer it in mojitos;)

I've always known that mint has "healing properties" at least in the form of the menthol included in vapor rub and after sun care. However, there are other benefits I wasn't aware of. For example mint has properties that both stimulate and relax the muscles of the digestive tract (aka peristalsis) which aids in digestion and soothes stomach aches caused by indigestion or inflammation.

Mint also stimulates the digestive enzymes that absorb nutrients from food and convert fat into usable energy. Therefore by adding mint to your diet you are increasing the amount of fat that is being put to use rather than being stored and contributing to your weight gain.

As for asparagus it is a great source of fiber, folate, vitamins A, C, and E and antioxidants ranking among the top fruits and vegetables for its ability to neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Worth having smelly pee right? ;)

Ingredients:
1 lime
1 1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves
1 clove garlic, 2 tsp. ground fennel
3 tbsp olive oil
1 1/4 lbs thin chicken cutlets
1 bunch thin asparagus, trimmed
8 cups mixed baby greens

Directions:
Prepare outdoor grill for covered direct grilling on med
From lime, grate 1/2 tsp peel and squeeze 2 tbsp juice
In food processor, pulse mint, grated lime peel, garlic, sugar, fennel, and 2 tsp oil until smooth
Rub chicken with 2 tbsp mint mixture: sprinkle with 1/4 tsp each salt and pepper. Grill, covered 6 to 8 mins or until cooked through (165 degrees F), turning over once
Meanwhile, toss asparagus with 1 tsp oil; sprinkle with 1/8 tsp salt. Grill, covered, 5 to 6 min turning occasionally.
To bowl with reserved mint mixture, add lime juice, remaining 2 tbsp oil and 1/4 tsp salt, whisking to combine. Divide greens among 4 serving plates; top with chicken and asparagus. Drizzle with mint dressing.