Lunch: Grilled Sweet Corn and Jalapeno Slaw

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Grilled Sweet Corn and Jalapeno Slaw

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

3 ears (large) Fresh Sweet Corn, Husked
2 Large Fresh Jalapeno Peppers
3 bags (10 Oz. Size) Shredded Cabbage
4 Green Onions, Chopped
3 Large Carrots, Peeled And Sliced Thinly On The Diagonal
1/3 cup Minced White Onion
1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Dill
1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro
2/3 cups Honey
2/3 cups Cider Vinegar
2/3 cups Vegetable Oil
2 teaspoons Cumin
2 teaspoons Ancho Chili Powder
2 cloves (medium) Garlic, Minced
Kosher Salt To Taste
Freshly Ground Black Pepper, To Taste

Instructions

Heat grill to high. Place whole ears of sweet corn and whole jalapeno peppers on the hot grates. When they are nicely charred, rotate them until all sides are charred. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Remove from grill grates and let cool. Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels from the cob using a sharp, serrated knife. Then cut the stems off the jalapenos and chop the jalapeno into small pieces. Add the corn kernels and jalapeno to a large bowl and set aside to cool completely. Then add cabbage, green onions, carrots, white onion, dill, and cilantro. Fold to combine.
In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, vinegar, oil, cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
Pour liquid mixture over the slaw mixture and fold to combine. Place in refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes prior to serving, to both chill the slaw and let the flavors mingle. Right before serving, fold the slaw a few times. Taste test and add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed, and then serve.
This can be prepared many hours in advance, or even the day prior to serving. Just store the slaw mixture and liquid mixture in separate containers in the refrigerator, combining them 30 to 60 minutes prior to serving, and then chilling again until serving time.