Lunch: Roasted Asparagus, Mushroom, and Onion Pizza Recipe | MyRecipes

Recipe by Adam Hickman Partially baking the pizza before freezing helps draw moisture out of the vegetables and set the crust so it stays nice and crisp. Use any hearty vegetables you like, but skip more delicate items like fresh tomatoes, as they won't

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus, Basil

Health benefits of Roasted Asparagus, Mushroom, and Onion Pizza Recipe | MyRecipes

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 1/2 pounds refrigerated fresh pizza dough
2 pounds cremini mushrooms, quartered
2 small red onions, each cut into 12 wedges
Cooking spray
1 pound asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into thirds
2 tablespoons cornmeal, divided
2/3 cup lower-sodium marinara sauce, divided (such as Dell'Amore)
5 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, torn into small pieces and divided (about 1 1/4 cups)
3 ounces fontina cheese, shredded and divided (about 3/4 cup)
1 1/2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

Divide dough in half. Let stand at room temperature, covered, for 30 minutes.
Place 2 heavy baking sheets in oven. Preheat oven to 500 ° (keep pans in oven as it preheats).
Combine mushrooms and onions on a jelly-roll pan; coat with cooking spray. Bake at 500 ° for 15 minutes. Add asparagus to pan; bake at 500 ° for 15 minutes. Remove from oven; cool.
Roll each piece of dough to a 15 x 9-inch rectangle on a lightly floured work surface. Carefully remove baking sheets from oven; sprinkle with cornmeal. Arrange dough on baking sheets; coat with cooking spray. Bake at 500 ° for 8 minutes. Spread 1/3 cup sauce over each crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top evenly with vegetable mixture and cheeses. Bake at 500 ° for 5 minutes. Continue baking at 500 ° for 5 to 6 minutes, or follow freezing instructions.
Combine oil, vinegar, and pepper in a small bowl; drizzle over pizzas. Sprinkle with basil and salt. Cut each pizza into 8 pieces.
How-To
FREEZE: Cool partially baked pizza completely; wrap tightly in heavy-duty foil. Freeze up to 2 months.
REHEAT: Unwrap pizza; bake directly on oven rack at 450 ° for 20 minutes or until crust is browned and crisp. Top with oil mixture, basil, and salt.