Salmon is a good source of protein and leads to lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The omega-3 fatty acids decrease the risk of arrhythmia also known as abnormal heartbeats. Omega-3 fatty acids also decreases triglyceride levels, and slows atherosclerotic plaque growth rate.  The American Heart Association recommends eating Salmon at least two times a week.

Here are two ways to include Salmon into your diet:

 

Baked Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 tablespoons light olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 (6 ounce) fillets salmon

Directions

  1.  In a medium glass bowl, prepare marinade by mixing garlic, light olive oil, basil, salt, pepper, lemon juice and parsley. Place salmon fillets in a medium glass baking dish, and cover with the marinade. Marinate in the refrigerator about 1 hour, turning occasionally.
  2.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  3.  Place fillets in aluminum foil, cover with marinade, and seal. Place sealed salmon in the glass dish, and bake 35 to 45 minutes, until easily flaked with a fork.

Grilled Salmon Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 pounds salmon fillets

Directions

  1. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, green onions, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Set aside 1/4 cup of the marinade. Place salmon in a shallow dish and pour the remaining marinade over the top. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Remove the salmon and discard the used marinade.
  2. Preheat grill for medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
  3. Place salmon on the preheated grill skin side down. Cook, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the fish flakes easily with a fork, 15 to 20 minutes.