Dinner: Shrimp-and-Chorizo Pizza with Escarole and Manchego

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Honey

Health benefits of Shrimp-and-Chorizo Pizza with Escarole and Manchego

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

1/2 teaspoon honey
1/2 cup warm water
1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups bread flour
1 1/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

In a large bowl, dissolve the honey in 2 tablespoons of the warm water. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let stand until foamy, about 10 minutes.
Add the remaining 6 tablespoons of water, then stir in the bread flour, the 1 1/2 teaspoons of olive oil and the salt until a lumpy mass forms. On a floured work surface, knead the pizza dough until smooth. Transfer to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let stand in a warm place until doubled in bulk, about 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 500 ° and set a pizza stone on the bottom of the oven to heat for at least 30 minutes. On a floured work surface, divide the dough in half and roll each half into a ball. Flatten each ball into a 6-inch disk and transfer to a large, floured baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and let stand until puffed, about 15 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the garlic and cook over moderate heat until golden, about 1 minute. Add the escarole and cook, tossing, until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
On a floured work surface, roll out 1 disk of dough to an 11-inch round. Transfer to a floured pizza peel. Lightly brush the edge of the dough with olive oil. Scatter half of the Manchego over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border at the edge, then top with half of the shrimp, chorizo and escarole. Slide the pizza onto the hot stone and bake for 5 minutes, or until the crust is browned on the bottom, the shrimp is cooked through and the other toppings are sizzling. Cut the pizza into wedges and serve immediately. Repeat with the remaining dough and toppings.

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