Lunch: Spiced Pumpkin Seed and Cashew Crunch

Recipe by Sara Dickerman For a salty, savory, crunchy boost, sprinkle this on roasted vegetables, soups, and hot cereal.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Sunflower Seeds, Agave

Health benefits of Spiced Pumpkin Seed and Cashew Crunch

Sunflower seeds are an excellent food for PCOS as they are packed with vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). Just one cup of sunflower seeds provides 30% of the recommended daily intake for vitamin B6. Sunflower seeds are also loaded with two other important of PCOS busting minerals: zinc and magnesium. Agave, a sweetener derived from the core of the agave plant, is frequently highlighted in nutritional discussions due to its notably low glycemic index (GI) rating. With a GI score of just 17, it stands out from many other natural sweeteners and sugars that often have higher GI values. For those unfamiliar with the term, the glycemic index is a measure that ranks foods based on how significantly they raise blood glucose (sugar) levels after consumption. Foods with a lower GI value are absorbed more slowly and cause a more gradual rise in blood sugar levels, which is particularly crucial for individuals managing conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

Ingredients

Nonstick vegetable oil spray
1 large egg white
1 teaspoon light agave syrup (nectar)
1/2 teaspoon garam masala or curry powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/4 cup raw cashews, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
1/4 cup shelled sunflower seeds

Instructions

Preheat oven to 300 °F. Coat a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick spray. Whisk egg white, agave, garam masala, salt, and cayenne in a medium bowl. Add nuts and seeds and toss to coat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer mixture to baking sheet, letting excess egg drip back into bowl. Bake, tossing once, until mixture is golden brown, 20 –25 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet.
DO AHEAD: Crunch can be made 5 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.