Lunch: Asparagus-Fontina Pizzettes with Bacon

Skip your typical breakfast sandwich and try these mini breakfast pizzas instead. Serve pizzettes with a simple Escarole Frisée Salad (pictured).

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Asparagus

Health benefits of Asparagus-Fontina Pizzettes with Bacon

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

8 oz. asparagus
6 oz. shiitake mushrooms
1/4 c. olive oil
2 clove garlic
salt
Pepper
1 1/2 lb. pizza dough
5 slice bacon
6 oz. Fontina cheese
6 large eggs

Instructions

Arrange oven racks in top and bottom thirds of oven. Preheat oven to 475 degrees F. Lightly grease two 18-inch by 12-inch jelly-roll pans.
Slice asparagus on an angle into 2-inch pieces. Transfer to large bowl, along with mushrooms, oil, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss until well coated.
Divide dough into 6 balls. On lightly floured surface, with floured rolling pin, roll and press 1 dough ball into 6-inch round; place on prepared pan. Repeat with remaining dough.
Evenly divide asparagus mixture among rounds, creating well in center of each. Bake 10 minutes or until edges are golden brown, switching pans halfway through.
Meanwhile, place bacon on paper-towel-lined plate. Cover with 2 sheets paper towel. Microwave on High 4 to 6 minutes or until beginning to crisp. Cool slightly; tear bacon into small pieces.
Sprinkle pizzettes with bacon and Fontina. Bake 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese melts. Carefully crack eggs directly onto centers of pizzettes. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until whites are opaque and set, switching pans halfway through. Sprinkle with pepper and salt; serve warm.