One of my favorite fruits to incorporate into my fall and winter culinary palette is none other than the antioxidant-loaded, heart healthy, hormone balancing, inflammation-kicking pomegranate.
And what better way to overcome the dullness of a normal baked salmon recipe by jazzing it up with this ultra-nutritious, perfectly tangy, eye dazzlingly pretty fruit that’s in full blown season right now?!
Glazed Pomegranate Salmon is an impressively stunning main dish that surprisingly only involves two simple steps and takes around 20 minutes start to finish.
Ingredients:
- Pomegranate Juice (unsweetened): 1/2 cup
- Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice: 2 tbsps
- Raw Honey: 340 grams
- Salmon Fillet (with skin): Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
- Pomegranate Seeds: 1/4 cup
- Parsley (chopped): 2 tbsp
If the umami perfection of these ingredients isn’t enough, let’s delve into why this dish enhances all aspects of your health on a molecular level from head to toe. Besides Salmon being rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cognitive function — the protein is where it’s at.
Salmon’s protein content plays a crucial role in maintaining hormone balance, supporting weight management, and promoting quality sleep. Proteins are essential for synthesizing hormones, contributing to feelings of fullness, and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Additionally, salmon’s omega-3 fatty acids aid in mood regulation and inflammation reduction. The fish’s rich protein profile not only supports muscle health but also helps manage stress by facilitating the production of neurotransmitters. Incorporating salmon into your diet can be a comprehensive approach to fostering metabolic health, supporting hormonal equilibrium, and ensuring restful sleep.
But that’s not all! Here are 3 reasons why the glaze is the perfect nutritional compliment for an added keep-your-hormones-in-check kick:
Pomegranate Power.Pomegranate, the crown jewel of this recipe, brings more than just its sweet-tart flavor. Packed with antioxidants, pomegranate juice contributes to overall well-being. For women in perimenopause and menopause, these antioxidants become warriors against oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms and supporting hormonal balance.
Orange Zest. Freshly squeezed orange juice not only adds a citrusy kick but also contributes vitamin C. This nutrient is vital for collagen formation, aiding in skin elasticity and supporting the health of connective tissues, which can be particularly beneficial during the hormonal shifts of menopause.
The Liquid Gold – Raw Honey. Not just a natural sweetener, raw honey brings a host of health benefits. Its anti-inflammatory properties may provide relief from common symptoms associated with hormonal changes, such as joint pain and inflammation.
How to prepare this hormone harmony on a plate:
1. Preparing the Glaze:
- In a saucepan, combine pomegranate juice, orange juice, and raw honey.
- Simmer over low heat until the mixture thickens. This glaze is where the magic happens – a concoction of flavors that does wonders for your health.
2. Cooking the Salmon:
- Season the salmon fillet with sea salt and black pepper.
- Brush the glaze generously over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is coated in this nutrient-rich elixir.
3. Embrace the Heat:
- Grill the salmon to perfection. The marriage of the glaze and the smoky char from the grill creates a harmonious flavor profile that dances on your taste buds.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle pomegranate seeds and freshly chopped parsley over the glazed salmon. This not only adds a burst of freshness but also additional layers of health benefits.
