Balsamic-glazed Salmon and Asparagus

Credit: Courtesy Breast Friends

This marinated salmon is not only tasty, it’s also full of cancer-fighting vitamins

Rich in healthy fats, this balsamic salmon dish will become your new favourite

Substantial research shows that omega-3 fats have anti-cancer effects and are vital for mood and mental function. Coldwater fatty fish such as wild sustainable salmon, halibut and sardines are high in omega-3 fats called EPA and DHA.

A 4-ounce serving of salmon provides 3,600 milligrams of omega-3. Eat salmon 1-2 times per week; cook it below 350 F to protect its fragile fat. Salmon is also a dietary source of vitamin D (350 IU per 3.5 ounces), a vitamin proven vital for cancer prevention, in addition to B vitamins and selenium. InspireHealth physicians also recommend taking a daily fish oil supplement, especially if you have cancer.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus
• 1 tablespoon cold-pressed (extra virgin) olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unrefined/raw sugar or unpasteurized honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
• 2 wild salmon fillets

Instructions

1. Place asparagus in baking dish and sprinkle with oil. Toss to coat. Cover with foil and bake approximately 10 minutes at 350° F.
2. Mix honey, vinegar and mustard in separate bowl. Pour over salmon to marinate.
3. Remove asparagus from oven and move to one side of pan.
4. Place salmon on free side. Bake an additional 15-20 minutes until tender and cooked through, not dry.

*Cooking time depends on size/thickness of salmon fillets.

For this book’s healthy recipes, Breast Friends teamed up with InspireHealth, a not-for-profit organization and leader in integrative cancer care, with three centres in BC and an online program. InspireHealth promotes healthy lifestyle including nutrition, exercise, support groups and stress management while supporting standard cancer treatments.