Lunch: Asparagus-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus

Health benefits of Asparagus-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

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

4 large portabello mushrooms (1 to 1-1/4 pounds)
1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil, divided
1 1/2 cups cut fresh asparagus (about 5 ounces spears)
1/3 cup chopped shallots or sweet onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large plum tomato, diced (1/2 cup)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup fresh multigrain bread crumbs*
1/4 cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400oF.
Clean mushroom caps with a damp paper towel. Cut off stems from mushroom caps; rinse under cold water. Coarsely chop stems and set aside. Use a spoon or paring knife to scrape out and discard gills from mushroom caps. Brush 2 teaspoons of the oil over mushroom caps; place oiled sides down on a 15 x 10 inch jelly roll pan or baking sheet.
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add asparagus, shallots, garlic and chopped mushroom stems. Cook 5 to 6 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in tomato, salt and pepper. Spoon mixture into mushroom caps. Combine bread crumbs and cheese; sprinkle evenly over mushrooms. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until hot and crumbs are golden brown. Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 1 stuffed mushroom cap).
*To make fresh bread crumbs, tear 1 to 2 slices multigrain bread into pieces and process in a food processor until coarse crumbs appear. Extra bread crumbs may be placed in a food storage freezer bag and frozen up to 3 months.

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