GINGER RECIPE – GINGER ROASTED PARSNIPS
December 6, 2018
Pittsburgh Fitness Project
If you’ve ever lived in Pittsburgh, you know that cookies are something we Yinzers take very seriously. The Pittsburgh Cookie Table is a long lasting wedding tradition still going strong to this day. As the snow is falling and the holiday lights are on display, we’re warming our ovens getting ready to bake. A treat many will be making this holiday season is the infamous gingerbread cookie. Ginger is a common holiday spice that we rarely think much of. But did you know that ginger has a number of wonderful wellness benefits? Here is a quick, yet delicious recipe for the holidays that combines two “super foods” – ginger and parsnips! We hope you enjoy this ginger roasted parsnips recipe!
GINGER, THE SPICE OF LIFE
Ginger is among the healthiest spices on the planet. And in my opinion, one of the most delicious! It comes from a flowering plant originating in China. And is closely related to turmeric and cardamon. It is loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body and brain. Did your mom ever tell you to drink flat ginger ale or have some ginger tea for an upset stomach? That’s because ginger has been shown to reduce nausea and aid in digestion.
Ginger has a very long history of use in various forms of traditional/alternative medicine. In addition to reducing nausea, it can also help digestion and fight the flu and common cold. It has been shown to be effective against exercise-induced muscle pain. And also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects so it’s a great food to eat during the winter “sick” season. The best part about ginger though? This “super food” can be used in a number of other healthy recipes and can be added to just about anything!
WHAT THE HECK IS A PARSNIP?
One of the first times I ever heard of a person eating parsnips was years ago. I was cleaning with the TV on in the background. And I heard Rachel Ray telling her audience to trick their kids into eating parsnips by mixing them with oven baked fries. Similar to the potato, parsnips are an awesome root vegetable, high in antioxidants, Vitamins A and C. They are full of fiber and are a great source of folic acid. In addition, consumption of parsnip also helps to make your bones stronger, lowers the chances of developing diabetes, helps to reduce cholesterol and prevents the onset of depression. During the winter months, the temperature change even intensifies the flavor of this vegetable, making it even more delicious to eat.
GINGER ROASTED PARSNIPS RECIPE
Enjoy this quick, healthy holiday recipe. We’ll share more for the upcoming holiday season, including some ginger inspired drinks!
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/4 pounds small parsnips, peeled and quartered
1 1/2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
Salt and freshly ground pepper
HOW TO MAKE IT
Preheat the oven to 325°. Pour the olive oil into a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Add the parsnips and ginger, season with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes, until the parsnips are tender. Serve right away.