Salmon is one of the most popular fish dishes in the United States. Loaded with heart-healthy fats, salmon is also high in protein and provides nutrients that help prevent a number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Salmon is also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and is lower in calories and saturated fat than most red meats, making it a healthier choice (especially if you’re trying to drop some weight).
With a new year comes a quest to eat better, make better food choices, and to try new foods that you and your family may actually end up loving. If you are interested in adding more salmon to your diet but don’t know where to start, we have some great ideas. As soon as you try these flavorful, healthy salmon recipes, you’ll want to add them to your weekly rotation.
The 411 on cooking with salmon
What is the healthiest way to eat salmon?
The American Heart Association recommends that you bake or grill salmon rather than frying it. Baking or grilling will help you limit extra calories from unhealthy oils, and using herbs and spices, rather than fatty sauces, will benefit you in your quest to lose weight.
What does salmon go well with?
When it comes to side dishes for salmon, there are so many wonderful options. Steamed broccoli is one of the best things you can serve with salmon. Cook until bright green and tender, but still crisp, and then add some chopped red onions, olive oil, and crumbled feta cheese.
In addition, you can mix things up with a continuous rotation of delectable side dishes, including a few of our favorites: Roasted Parmesan Rosemary Potatoes, Buttery Garlic Green Beans, or classic roasted Brussels sprouts.
What herbs go well with salmon?
Salmon is a common food source in so many cultures, and with it comes so many different ways to prepare it. Your choice of herbs depends mostly on your recipe and cooking methods. So, what herbs go with salmon? Here are 10 of the best herbs to accompany your next salmon dish.
- Basil
- Bay Leaves
- Coriander
- Dill
- Fennel
- Parsley
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Tarragon
- Thyme
A week’s worth of healthy salmon recipes
Best easy, healthy baked salmon
Keep it simple with this classic baked salmon recipe. Baked-in lemon and garlic add incredible flavor and flaky tenderness. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special-occasion dinners with friends and family.
Slow-cooker miso black pepper salmon
This slow-cooker salmon is the perfect weeknight dinner option. A true dump-it-and-leave-it recipe, this dish gets a light Asian flavor from the lime and scallions that soak into the salmon while it cooks. Pro tip: Use a bit of cooking spray on the foil before adding the ingredients, so your food won’t stick. Then, just add the ingredients, and let your slow-cooker do all the work while you’re busy doing other things.
Grilled salmon with ginger soy butter
Soy butter and ginger add tangy flavor to grilled salmon while keeping the recipe healthy too. By being your own chef, you’ll save almost 400 calories versus eating this recipe at P.F. Chang’s (where the inspiration for this recipe is from).
Salmon-stuffed avocados
This easy, no-cook meal includes canned salmon, a valuable pantry staple to keep on hand. Combined with non-fat Greek yogurt and avocados, it’s a tasty and practical way to include the heart-healthy omega-3 goodness of salmon in your diet.
Healthy lemon garlic salmon
Ready in under 15 minutes, this low-calorie lemon and garlic-infused recipe uses only a handful of ingredients. Cook it in a skillet for a nice crispiness. Add your favorite veggie and a salad to create the perfect healthy meal.
Air fryer salmon cakes
If you like classic salmon croquettes, you’re going to love these air-fried salmon patties: Crispy outside, super tender inside, and so tasty. To maintain the recipe’s heart healthiness, use canned or jarred salmon with less than 50 milligrams of sodium per serving.
Baked salmon with garlic and dijon
You don’t need fancy ingredients to perfect baked salmon. This recipe is wonderfully flavorful, with no marinating required. All you’ll need is:
- Dijon mustard
- Fresh lemon juice
- Chopped parsley
- Pressed garlic
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
One of the “superfoods” recommended most often by doctors, salmon has long been known for its role in healthier eating plans. We hope that our practical tips and innovative recipe ideas will help make it easier to add salmon to your meal rotation. Delicious, easy-to-prepare, and oh so nutritious, salmon is a no-brainer for becoming a regular part of your eating plan.
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