Fertility Fit: Lasagna Beans

Lasagna Beans

Okay yall, I am all about this recipe. It's a lovely mixture between a tomato soup with lots of plant-based protein, and lasagna vibes as well. It easy and it's with ingredients I already had at home. My boys love dipping their toast sticks into it and eating it up. You could just use white beans but I only had 2 cans and I was pleasantly surprised with 2 additional guests for dinner, so I just worked with what I got!

This recipe combines the goodness of olive oil, garlic, and an array of nutrient-rich ingredients. This Mediterranean-inspired dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also incorporates elements known for their potential benefits to reproductive health.

Ingredients

Olive oil

2 heads of garlic

1 red onion finely chopped

3 cans of beans, I used white beans and 1 can of chickpeas

3 cups of cherry tomatoes

1 can petite diced tomatoes

1 cup parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon of rosemary 

Ricotta to top if desired (highly recommended) 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Add garlic head to some tin foil and roast for 35 minutes

Heat oil in a Dutch oven

Add chopped onion and cook until fragrant

Add roasted garlic and cherry tomatoes

Cover on medium-low and let the tomatoes burst

Add 1 can of tomatoes 

Use a hand blender to puree tomatoes, onions, garlic

Once blended, add beans, rosemary, and parmesan to the mixture and warm until the cheese is melted

Top with a dollop of ricotta and serve with some warm crusty bread

Why its great for Fertility

• Olive Oil: The Liquid Gold of Fertility
  Olive oil is a staple in the Mediterranean diet and is celebrated for its numerous health benefits. Rich in monounsaturated fats, this heart-healthy oil supports hormonal balance and aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins essential for fertility. Its anti-inflammatory properties contribute to overall well-being, making it a perfect base for our fertility-boosting recipe.
• Garlic: Nature's Superfood
  Packed with allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, garlic is a nutritional powerhouse. It helps regulate blood flow and supports a healthy immune system. The two heads of garlic in this recipe not only infuse a rich flavor but also contribute to the overall health-promoting properties of the dish.
• Red Onion: Adding a Splash of Color and Folate
  The finely chopped red onion not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also brings a dose of fertility-friendly nutrients. Rich in folate, a B-vitamin essential for fetal development, red onions contribute to a well-rounded fertility diet.
• Beans and Chickpeas: Plant-Based Protein for Fertility
  White beans and chickpeas are excellent sources of plant-based protein, offering a healthy alternative to animal proteins. Protein is a key component in supporting reproductive health, and these legumes provide a satisfying and nutrient-dense addition to the recipe.
• Cherry Tomatoes and Petite Diced Tomatoes: Bursting with Lycopene
  Tomatoes, particularly cherry tomatoes, are rich in lycopene—an antioxidant known for its potential benefits to male fertility. Lycopene helps combat oxidative stress and supports sperm health. The addition of petite diced tomatoes adds a savory depth to the dish, while also contributing to the overall nutritional profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Calcium and Flavor in Harmony
  Parmesan cheese not only brings a delightful umami flavor to the recipe but also provides a good source of calcium. Calcium is crucial for reproductive health, playing a role in the development and function of reproductive organs.
• Ricotta: Creamy Goodness and Fertility Support
  Ricotta, when added as a topping, not only introduces a creamy texture but also contributes to the dish's fertility-boosting potential. Ricotta is a good source of protein and calcium, further enhancing the nutrient content of this Mediterranean masterpiece.

This Mediterranean-inspired recipe not only satisfies the palate but also aligns with the principles of a fertility-boosting diet. By incorporating olive oil, garlic, and a variety of nutrient-rich ingredients, this dish offers a delicious and wholesome way to support reproductive & gut health. Whether you're on a fertility journey or simply seeking a flavorful and nutritious meal, this recipe provides a delightful option that will nourish both body and soul.