Lunch: Chopped Salad with Roasted Vegetables

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus

Health benefits of Chopped Salad with Roasted Vegetables

Asparagus stands out as a superfood for managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting many women of reproductive age. This nutrient-dense vegetable offers a myriad of health benefits that align perfectly with the dietary needs of those managing PCOS, making it an essential addition to their diet.

Rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, asparagus is particularly high in folate, vitamins A, C, E, and K, and has significant levels of chromium—a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS, as they often experience insulin resistance, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and potentially contributing to weight gain and metabolic complications. By improving insulin sensitivity, asparagus can help manage these symptoms more effectively.

Furthermore, asparagus is a great source of dietary fiber, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels by slowing the absorption of sugar, offering another layer of support for insulin resistance. Additionally, the high fiber content in asparagus can aid in weight management, an important aspect for those with PCOS, as maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the severity of the condition's symptoms.

Asparagus also contains a unique compound called inulin, a prebiotic that promotes digestive health by supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall health and can have a positive impact on the management of PCOS by improving digestion, nutrient absorption, and possibly even hormonal balance.

Incorporating asparagus into the diet can be both easy and delicious. It can be grilled, roasted, steamed, or added to salads, omelets, and stir-fries. Its versatility and nutritional profile make asparagus an invaluable superfood for those looking to manage PCOS symptoms through a healthy and balanced diet. By contributing to better insulin sensitivity, weight management, and digestive health, asparagus offers a natural way to support the body in dealing with the challenges of PCOS.

Ingredients

8 ounces fresh asparagus, trimmed
3 medium carrots, peeled
1 medium red onion, sliced 1/2 inch thick
Nonstick olive oil cooking spray
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 romaine hearts, finely chopped
1/2 head iceberg lettuce, finely chopped
One 15-ounce can garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
8 ounces shredded mozzarella (about 1 cup)
6 ounces Italian salami, chopped
5 ounces cherry tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup red wine vinegar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Put the asparagus on 1 baking sheet in a single layer and the carrots and onions on the other in a single layer. Spray the vegetables generously with cooking spray and sprinkle with a few pinches of salt. Cook, stirring about halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized, 15 minutes for the asparagus and 40 minutes for the carrots and onions. Set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, combine the romaine, iceberg lettuce, garbanzo beans, mozzarella, salami and tomatoes in a large bowl.
In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper until well blended. Set aside.
When cool enough to handle, chop the roasted vegetables into 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch pieces and add to the salad. Add the dressing and toss thoroughly. Add salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.

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