Dinner: Broken Pappardelle with Shrimp and Zucchini

Recipe By: Grace Parisi This recipe starts with large, flat sheets of pappardelle noodles, which are broken into bite-size, charmingly irregular pieces that fit perfectly on a fork. You can leave the jalapeno seeds in for more heat or discard them for a m

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus

Health benefits of Broken Pappardelle with Shrimp and Zucchini

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

1/2 lb. pappardelle
3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 lb. zucchini
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 clove garlic
1 jalapeno
1 lb. shelled and deveined medium shrimp
1/2 lb. asparagus
1/2 c. heavy cream
3 tbsp. snipped chives

Instructions

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta until just al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
Meanwhile, in a very large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the zucchini, season with salt and pepper and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned in spots, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeno and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper and add them to the skillet, along with the asparagus. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are curled but not cooked through, about 3 minutes.
Add the pasta, cream and 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet and simmer over moderately low heat, tossing, until the shrimp are cooked through and the sauce is slightly thickened, about 2 minutes; add more of the pasta cooking water if the sauce is dry. Stir in the chives, transfer the pasta to bowls and serve immediately.
Wine Recommendation: Ripe, fragrant Vermentino: 2005 Tenute Dettori Bianco.

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