Lunch: Pappardelle with Lemon, Baby Artichokes, and Asparagus

Recipe by Joanne Weir Pappardelle is a wide, flat pasta. If you can't find it, use fettuccine. Be sure to grate the rind before you juice the lemon.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Asparagus

Health benefits of Pappardelle with Lemon, Baby Artichokes, and Asparagus

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

12 ounces uncooked pappardelle (wide ribbon pasta)
2 1/4 cups cold water, divided
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
24 baby artichokes (about 2 pounds)
3 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil, divided
1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut diagonally into (1-inch) pieces
2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1 tablespoon grated lemon rind
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/4 cups (5 ounces) grated fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup cooking liquid. Set pasta aside; keep warm.
Combine 2 cups water and juice in a medium bowl. Working with 1 artichoke at a time, cut off stem to within 1/4-inch from the base; peel stem. Remove bottom leaves and tough outer leaves, leaving tender heart and bottom; trim about 1 inch from top of artichoke. Cut each artichoke in half lengthwise. Place artichoke halves in lemon water.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain artichokes well; pat dry. Add artichokes to pan. Cover and cook 8 minutes, stirring occasionally; uncover. Increase heat to medium-high; cook 2 minutes or until artichokes are golden, stirring frequently. Place artichokes in a large bowl.
Place pan over medium heat; add remaining 1/4 cup water and asparagus to pan. Cover and cook 5 minutes or until crisp-tender. Add asparagus, parsley, and rind to artichokes; toss well. Add pasta, reserved cooking liquid, the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, thyme, salt, and pepper to artichoke mixture; toss well. Place 2 cups pasta mixture into each of 6 shallow bowls; top each serving with about 3 tablespoons cheese.

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