This recipe combines savory, crispy salmon with caramelized sweet potatoes and a refreshing avocado-cilantro salsa for a meal that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients, this dish is perfect for supporting your health while delivering vibrant flavors. Let’s break down the benefits of each ingredient and guide you through the preparation process.
Ingredient Analysis: Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
- Navel Orange (1, sliced):
Oranges are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and reduces oxidative stress. Broiling the slices caramelizes their natural sugars, adding depth and sweetness to the dish.
Pro Tip: Use fresh, ripe oranges for the best flavor and nutritional content.
- Olive Oil (4 tablespoons):
Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, which reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for maximum health benefits and flavor.
- Smoked Paprika (1 1/2 tablespoons):
Smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky flavor while offering antioxidant properties that combat inflammation.
Pro Tip: Adjust the amount to taste for a more subtle or intense smoky flavor.
- Fresh Oregano (1 tablespoon, chopped):
Oregano contains compounds like carvacrol, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. It also adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Pro Tip: Chop fresh oregano finely to release its essential oils.
- Baby Sweet Potatoes (24 ounces, halved):
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that reduces inflammation and supports skin health. Their natural sweetness complements the savory salmon and salsa.
Pro Tip: Roast sweet potatoes until caramelized for the best flavor.
- Smoked Sea Salt (1 1/2 teaspoons, divided):
Smoked sea salt enhances the dish’s flavor with a subtle smoky note. It also contains trace minerals that support overall health.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle the salt evenly to ensure balanced seasoning.
- Salmon Fillets (4, 6-ounce pieces, skin-on):
Salmon is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and support brain and heart health. The crispy skin adds texture and flavor.
Pro Tip: Pat the fillets dry before cooking to achieve a crispy skin.
- Avocado (2, chopped):
Avocados are packed with healthy fats, vitamin E, and potassium, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Pro Tip: Use ripe avocados for the creamiest salsa texture.
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves (¾ cup, chopped):
Cilantro is rich in antioxidants and helps detoxify the body by binding to heavy metals. It adds a vibrant, zesty flavor to the salsa.
Pro Tip: Save some chopped cilantro for garnish.
- Fresh Lime Juice (¼ cup):
Lime juice provides a tangy brightness while delivering vitamin C and supporting digestive health.
Pro Tip: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Coconut Aminos (1 tablespoon):
Coconut aminos add a touch of sweetness and umami, making them a great soy-free alternative to soy sauce. They’re also lower in sodium, supporting heart health.
Pro Tip: Stir well before using, as sediment may settle at the bottom.
Smoked Salmon with Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 navel oranges
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano chopped
- 24 ounces baby sweet potatoes halved
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked sea salt divided
- 4 6- oz. skin-on salmon fillets patted dry
- 2 avocados chopped
- ¾ cup fresh cilantro leaves chopped
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved baby sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon smoked sea salt. Place them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, until tender and caramelized.
- While the sweet potatoes roast, prepare the salmon. Rub the salmon fillets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ tablespoon smoked paprika, fresh oregano, and ½ teaspoon smoked sea salt. Set aside to absorb the flavors.
- Slice the navel orange and arrange it on a separate baking sheet. Broil the orange slices for 5-7 minutes to caramelize them slightly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sear the salmon, skin side down, for about 4-5 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- In a medium bowl, mix the chopped avocado, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and coconut aminos. Toss to combine.
- Serve the salmon alongside the roasted sweet potatoes, caramelized oranges, and avocado-cilantro mixture.
Nutritional Overview
This dish provides a well-rounded combination of healthy fats, protein, and complex carbohydrates, supporting energy levels and reducing inflammation.
Key Nutritional Highlights:
Omega-3s: Salmon supports heart and brain health.
Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes, avocado, and cilantro combat oxidative stress.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocado promote satiety and reduce inflammation.
Final Thoughts: A Balanced, Anti-Inflammatory Meal
This crispy salmon with roasted sweet potatoes and avocado-cilantro salsa is a delicious example of how nutrient-dense ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, health-supporting meal. Every component complements the others, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this anti-inflammatory dish, knowing you’re nourishing your body with every bite.