When it comes to seafood, Alaska is king! Salmon reigns supreme at the top of a very long list of Alaskan Seafood. Alaska boasts five different varieties of salmon: King (or Chinook), Sockeye, Pink, Keta, and Coho. No matter what your flavor palette is or your preferred method of cooking, Alaskan Salmon is a healthy, nutrient-packed seafood option; there’s something for everyone!

Known for its flesh that spans from deep red to pink, Alaskan salmon is unparalleled in flavor and versatile as well. All varieties of Alaskan Salmon are an excellent choice for smoking, grilling, roasting, sautéing, or poaching.

If you’re looking for a nutrient-dense protein option, look no further than Alaskan Salmon! Rich in many essential nutrients, such as vitamins E, C, D, and A, some varieties even contain high levels of antioxidant E which will give your immune system a shot in the arm while also reducing the buildup of plaque in arteries which will lower your risk of heart disease. Don’t just take our word for it, check out this video for other health benefits of incorporating Alaskan Salmon into your diet!

You may be thinking, “Alaskan Salmon is the same as commercially farmed fish.” Simply stated, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Marine conservation is nothing new to Alaskan Seafood workers. From catch quotas to using 100% of every fish that is caught, sustainable practices are not only good for the Alaskan economy, but they ensure that the environment is protected as well. For more on how Alaskan Seafood adheres to sustainable fishing practices, check out this short video!

Versatile, flavorful, nutrient dense, healthy, and sustainable; salmon really is deserving of the term “superfood.” Next time you’re looking for a high-powered protein option, think of Alaskan Salmon. Try this simple recipe out for starters!

One Pan Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon + Asparagus
Makes 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 4 - 6 (6 oz or 170 g) salmon fillets, skin removed
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
• 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (or sea salt flakes)
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 4 bunches asparagus (24 spears), woody ends removed
• 1 lemon, sliced to garnish
• 1/3 cup beans/peas or any other greens

Directions:

1. Preheat oven broiler (or grill) to high heat. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange oven shelf to the second top shelf (about 8-inches from the heat element).
2. Place the salmon on a large baking tray. Rub each fillet evenly with the garlic and parsley to evenly coat; pour over the lemon juice. Spray with a light coating of olive oil spray and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the asparagus and greens around the salmon in a single layer, and place the lemon slices over the top.
3. Broil (or grill) for 8-10 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through to your liking (we find 8 minutes is perfect if the oven is hot).
4. Serve with the asparagus and beans/peas

About the Author
Graham Parker - Marketing Specialist, SpartanNash Company

The newest member to join the SpartanNash Marketing Team, Graham is a fitness and nutrition enthusiast with a passion for preparing healthy meals to fuel his active lifestyle.