Lunch: Roasted Vegetable Medley

Recipe by Lorelei This colorful dish has the perfect blend of sweet and savory. It is simple to prepare and can be served as a side dish, salad, or light meal. Feel free to substitute whatever veggies and herbs you have on hand.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus, Basil

Health benefits of Roasted Vegetable Medley

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

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 large yam, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 large parsnip, peeled and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 cup baby carrots
1 zucchini, cut into 1 inch slices
1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
1/2 cup roasted red peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Grease 2 baking sheets with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Place the yams, parsnips, and carrots onto the baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, then add the zucchini and asparagus, and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Continue baking until all of the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes more. Once tender, remove from the oven, and allow to cool for 30 minutes on the baking sheet.
Toss the roasted peppers together with the garlic, basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until combined. Add the roasted vegetables, and toss to mix. Serve at room temperature or cold.

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