Dessert: Baked Pears with Honey and Ginger

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Lemon, Honey

Health benefits of Baked Pears with Honey and Ginger

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.

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

Nonstick vegetable oil spray
8 firm but ripe Bartlett pears, peeled, halved, cored
1 cup packed golden brown sugar
3 teaspoons ground ginger
6 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons grated lemon peel
10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) unsalted butter
1 quart vanilla frozen yogurt
Fresh mint sprigs (optional)
Lemon peel strips (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375 °F. Spray 2 large ovenproof skillets with oil spray. Arrange half of pears cut side down in each skillet. Sprinkle 1/2 cup sugar and 1 1/2 teaspoons ginger over pears in each skillet. Mix honey, lemon juice and peel in small bowl. Drizzle over pears. Dot pears in each skillet with 3 tablespoons butter.
Place skillets with pears in oven. Bake until juices bubble thickly and pears are tender when pierced with small sharp knife, basting occasionally, about 15 minutes. Turn pears over. Bake 5 minutes longer. Remove pears from oven. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cool. Transfer pears and cooking syrup to large glass baking dish; cover and chill. Rewarm uncovered in 375 °F. oven 15 minutes before continuing.)
Arrange 2 pear halves on each of 8 plates. Transfer cooking syrup to 1 large skillet. Bring syrup to simmer, whisk in 4 tablespoons butter. Spoon over pears. Place 1 scoop yogurt alongside. Garnish with mint and lemon peel, if desired.