Ingredient spotlight: salmon

Salmon is ready to make waves on your summer menu. Whether you serve it as a grilled entrée or create the burger of your dreams, this fresh, filling fish is packed with nutrients that boost your oral, vision, and overall health. Just a few of these health benefits include: 

Healthy highlights:

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    Omega-3 fatty acids protect against gum disease, help moisturize your eyes, support brain health, and more.

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    Vitamin D to help your body absorb calcium for stronger teeth and bones.

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    Vitamin B6 supports brain health, Vitamin D helps regulate mood, and reduces risk for eye disease.

Mouth-friendly recipes:

Grilled salmon with garlic and herbs

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, this herb-seasoned salmon is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a protein-packed, smile-friendly meal.

Ingredients:

  • 6 skinless salmon fillets, 4-6 ounces each

  • 5 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 ½ tablespoons soy sauce 

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon parsley leaves, chopped

  • 2 teaspoons thyme leaves, chopped 

  • ¾ teaspoon salt

  • ½  teaspoon pepper

  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Directions:

  1. Add the olive oil, brown sugar, soy sauce, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, parsley, thyme, salt and pepper to a bowl. Whisk until combined.

  2. Place 1 tablespoon of the marinade aside for later use. 

  3. Add garlic to the bowl. 

  4. Add the salmon to the marinade, making sure that all the salmon is covered. 

  5. Marinate and refrigerate for 1-8 hours. 

  6. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

  7. Remove the salmon from the marinade. 

  8. Cook the salmon fillets 5-6 minutes on each side or until desired doneness.  

  9. Brush the fillets with the reserved marinade and serve.

Avocado salmon burgers

With omega-3s, fresh herbs, and sliced avocado, this Mediterranean salmon burger is a delicious way to support your vision, heart, and oral health.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound fresh, skinless salmon 

  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

  • 2 teaspoons horseradish

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • Ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 egg white

  • 4 whole wheat buns

  • ¼ cup sour cream

  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • Toppings (optional): Lettuce, tomato, onion, feta

 

Directions:

  1. Chop the salmon into small pieces.

  2. In a bowl, mix the salmon with dill, horseradish, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and egg white.

  3. Shape the mixture into four even patties.

  4. Heat grill or pan to medium-high heat. 

  5. Cook the patties for about 4 minutes per side, until firm and cooked through.

  6. Spread sour cream on the buns, then layer with avocado slices.

  7. Place the salmon patties on a bun, add toppings to taste, and enjoy!

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