Lunch: Fried Softshell Crab, White Asparagus and Wild Sorrel with a Grilled Ramp Dressing

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Asparagus

Health benefits of Fried Softshell Crab, White Asparagus and Wild Sorrel with a Grilled Ramp Dressing

Lemons can help to prevent oxidative damage to the body, which women with PCOS are often susceptible to. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. They can potentially support the immune system and have other health benefits. Lemons also have a low glycemic index, so they should not cause a rapid rise in blood sugar when consumed in natural form.

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 bunch of wild ramps
Drizzle of olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 egg*
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 lemon, juiced
1 teaspoon chopped garlic
Hot sauce, to taste
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large softshell crabs, cleaned
1 cup flour
Essence Creole seasoning, recipe follows
1/2 pound wild sorrel, cleaned
1/2 pound watercress, cleaned
12 spears of fresh white asparagus, cooked until tender and chilled
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley leaves

Instructions

Preheat the grill. Season the ramps with olive oil, salt and pepper. Place on the grill and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, or until wilted. Remove and cool completely. In a food processor, fitted with a metal blade, combine the egg, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, hot sauce and grilled ramps. Puree until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. With the machine running, add the oil very slowly in a steady stream. Process until the mixture is thick and creamy. Remove and chill completely. Preheat oil in the fryer to 360 degrees. Season the softshells and flour with Essence. Dredge the softshells in the flour, coating completely. Carefully holding the top of each crab, drag the legs through the oil for 5 seconds to allow the individual legs to fry separately. Then carefully flip the crabs top side down into the oil. Fry until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Turn the crabs over with tongs and continue frying for another 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Season with Creole seasoning. In a mixing bowl, combine the sorrel and watercress. Season with salt and pepper. Season the asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil, salt and pepper. To serve, spoon some of the dressing in the center of each plate. Form 3 spears of the asparagus into a triangle over each pool of dressing. Mound the greens in the center of each triangle. Lay each softshell on top of the greens. Garnish with parsley.

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