Are you worried about developing heart disease? Maybe you had a serious talk with your doctor at your last appointment and you want to make some meaningful health changes. Or maybe you have a long family history of heart disease and you want to be proactive. No matter the reason, if you’re worried about developing heart disease, incorporating fish into your meal rotations a couple of times each week can reduce your risk.

Fatty fish (like salmon) are full of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3’s can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease by decreasing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides. Omega-3s can also reduce inflammation throughout the body. This is particularly beneficial to your heart health because inflammation can do a number on your blood vessels.

Lemon & Herb Baked Salmon

In celebration of Valentine’s day (and heart health), I wanted to share my tried-and-true baked salmon recipe. Serves 4.

Ingredients

• (4) 6 oz salmon, skin left on
• ¼ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Leave the fish on the counter for 15-30 minutes to allow it to come to room temperature.
2. In the meantime, chop your herbs, zest your lemon, and set aside in a small bowl with the minced garlic cloves, lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Prepare a baking sheet by covering it with tin foil and rubbing a little bit of olive oil on the bottom. Place the salmon on the baking sheet with the skin size on the rack.
4. Coat the salmon with the herbs/lemon/olive oil mixture. Spread out a thick layer of the mixture on top of the salmon filets.
5. Place the salmon in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until flaky. If you want to remove the skin, now is the time to do it. Otherwise, season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.