MOST seniors are aware of the health benefits of asparagus, you don't need telling, and besides, it tastes good.

Asparagus is nature's antioxidant, one of the top vegetables for its ability to neutralise cell-damaging free-radicals and, according to research, may help slow the ageing process. Asparagus is also a brain booster, helping brains fight cognitive decline.

It is an excellent source of vitamin K, folate, copper, selenium, vitamin B2, vitamin C and vitamin E.

So let's eat more of it, and while we're at it, show off to our family and friends with these very swish asparagus and smoked salmon rolls with horseradish cream.

Seafood and spears - what a great combination and these little rolls are bursting with flavour and goodness.

ASPARAGUS AND SMOKED SALMON ROLLS

Cooking time: 1 minute

Serves 4

Ingredients:

* 10 asparagus spears, woody ends removed

* 4 slices smoked salmon

* Lemon juice, sprigs of dill and salmon roe, to serve

Horseradish cream:

* 1 tablespoon sour cream

* 1 tablespoon cream cheese

* 2 teaspoons horseradish cream

* 2 teaspoons chopped dill

* Small sprigs of dill to serve

* Salmon roe to serve (optional)

Method:

Blanch asparagus until tender crisp but still bright green. Cut spears in half and then set aside.

To prepare Horseradish Cream, combine all ingredients.

Cut each salmon slice into 10cm x 5cm pieces. Place on board and spread each slice with a little of the Horseradish Cream.

Top with 4 pieces of asparagus and roll into a neat small parcel.

Squeeze a little lemon juice over each roll.

Arrange rolls on serving plates. Top each roll with a small sprig of dill and, if using, spoon a little salmon roe on top.