Citrus-Glazed Salmon with Zucchini Noodles (DASH Diet-Friendly)
This heart-healthy salmon dish features a vibrant citrus glaze and is served over nutrient-packed zucchini noodles, making it a perfect choice for the DASH diet. The light yet flavorful meal is easy to prepare and provides a balanced combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
Prepare the oven: Preheat to 350°F. Season the salmon fillets with salt and black pepper.
Sear the salmon: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 5 minutes, until the skin becomes golden and crisp. Flip the fillets and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 5 minutes for medium-rare, 7 minutes for medium, or 9 minutes for well-done. Once cooked, move the salmon to a cutting board and let it rest.
Make the citrus glaze: Using the same skillet, place it back on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Pour in the orange juice and low-sodium soy sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it reduces to a thick, syrup-like consistency.
Assemble the dish: Divide the spiralized zucchini noodles onto 4 plates. Top each portion with a piece of salmon, then drizzle the citrus glaze over both the salmon and noodles. Garnish with fresh chives and parsley before serving.
Notes
Substitutions & Variations:Alternative Fish Option: Arctic char can be used in place of salmon.Zucchini Noodle Prep: For a crunchier texture, serve raw zucchini noodles under the warm salmon, allowing the heat to soften them slightly. Alternatively, lightly sauté them for 2-3 minutes in olive oil before serving.Notes:
This dish is designed to align with the DASH diet, which focuses on reducing sodium while incorporating lean proteins, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich vegetables.
If using store-bought pre-spiralized zucchini, ensure they are fresh and crisp for the best texture.
The glaze can also be made with grapefruit or lemon juice for a tangier variation.