Dinner: Vegetarian Pot Pie

This vegan pot pie is a delicious hearty meal that's full of flavor.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Broccoli, Spinach

Health benefits of Vegetarian Pot Pie

Broccoli is a highly nutritious vegetable that provides numerous health benefits, especially for individuals managing PCOS. This cruciferous vegetable is rich in essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. But what makes broccoli particularly beneficial for those with PCOS?

Low Glycemic Index (GI)

Broccoli has a low glycemic index, making it an excellent choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. This is particularly important for individuals with PCOS, as it helps manage insulin resistance and prevents the spikes and crashes in blood sugar that can exacerbate PCOS symptoms. By including low GI foods like broccoli in your diet, you can better regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

Rich in Fiber

Broccoli is high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Fiber also supports weight management, which is crucial for managing PCOS. The high fiber content in broccoli makes it an excellent choice for promoting digestive health and preventing constipation.

Vitamins and Minerals

Broccoli is a rich source of several essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps boost the immune system, promote skin health, and reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin K: Important for bone health and proper blood clotting.
• Folate: Supports healthy cell function and is especially important for women who are trying to conceive.
• Iron: Crucial for preventing anemia and supporting overall energy levels.
• Calcium: Essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Magnesium: Helps improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and support muscle and nerve function.

Antioxidants

Broccoli is loaded with antioxidants, including sulforaphane, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. These antioxidants are particularly beneficial for individuals with PCOS, as they can help mitigate some of the negative effects associated with the condition.

Incorporating Broccoli into Your Diet

You might wonder, "How can I add broccoli to my meals?" Here are some ideas:

• Steamed: Steam broccoli and drizzle it with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt for a simple and nutritious side dish.
• Salads: Add lightly steamed or raw broccoli florets to your salads for extra crunch and nutrients.
• Soups: Include broccoli in your soups and stews for added flavor, texture, and nutrients.
• Stir-Fries: Toss broccoli with other vegetables and lean protein in a stir-fry for a quick and healthy meal.

Another common question is, "Can I eat broccoli every day?" Yes, broccoli is safe to eat daily and provides numerous health benefits. However, it’s important to enjoy a variety of vegetables to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients in your diet.

Sustainability

Broccoli is also a sustainable food choice. It can be grown in various climates and has a relatively low environmental impact compared to many other crops. Choosing broccoli supports sustainable farming practices and provides an eco-friendly option for your diet.

In summary, broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that offers numerous health benefits for managing PCOS. Its low glycemic index, high fiber content, and rich array of vitamins and minerals support blood sugar regulation, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health. With its versatility and delicious taste, broccoli is an excellent addition to any diet focused on PCOS management.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients

1 dash pepper
1 tsp leaves tarragon
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tbsp rosemary
8 oz soy margarine, soft
2 cubes vegetable broth (add water)
1 cup green beans
1/2 cup chopped broccoli
3 medium carrots
1/2 cup cauliflower
1/2 tbsp parsley
1 large potato
10 oz spinach, frozen
1 small zucchini
2 1/4 cups water
3 cups flour

Instructions

1. Start with the crust. Mix 2 cups of flour and salt together in bowl. Cut in margarine until dough looks crumbly. Stir in 1/4 cup of water. Roll dough into a ball. Divide in half. Roll out dough for bottom and place into a standard greased pie plate.

2. Cook chopped vegetables till about 3/4 of the way cooked (cook less for crunchier.) Do not cook spinach, thaw and drain as directed on package while vegetables cook.

3. To make sauce, heat broth in large pot, add spices, and lower heat. Add remaining cup of flour slowly till slightly thickened.( You can also use dairy free milk and add cubes directly which will make a creamier sauce.)

4. Mix together sauce and cooked vegetables.

5. Spoon vegetables and sauce into pie shell. Add thawed spinach on top.

6. Roll out remainder of dough and cover pie.

7. Bake at 400 °F (200 °C) for about 45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

8. Note: recipe can be made with a variety of different vegetables, for example in the fall I like using seasonal vegetables like potatoes and squash.