Baked Salmon with Garlic, Lemon, and Parsley, on a Bed of Beet Greens

 

My favorite recipe for a stunning piece of Atlantic Salmon - it really can't get any simpler. 

 
Drizzle the salmon with a garlicky lemon-herb dressing, wrap in foil, bake in the oven for under 15 mins and serve on a bed of greens - and the result is a deliciously moist salmon dish packed with flavor where each ingredient speaks for itself.

The upside? Healthy, delicious; most importantly, there is little to prepare, nearly nothing to wash, and it all can be done in under 20 minutes. 

Mix together olive oil, a couple cloves of minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, several squeezes of lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Pour the dressing liberally over the salmon, then wrap into a parcel with aluminium foil, and bake till cooked and moist in a preheated oven at 180 degree Celcius for 13-15 mins, depending on the thickness of your salmon.  

As for the vegetables, I came across a rarity in Hong Kong's supermarkets - organic Beet Greens. Deeply magenta in the stalks with crunchy, forest green leaves, these beautiful greens are unfortunately often misunderstood and all too often destined for the bin. Vegetables come in all colors of the rainbow spectrum, carrying with them not only a multitude of flavors, but also a wide array of nutrients. Different colors indicate different nutrient profiles, so getting a little of each color in our diet every day maximizes the nutritional benefits.

Beet greens are packed with vitamins and minerals (A, C, K and fiber, iron and potassium), and they are as versatile for cooking as they are aesthetically pleasing. They are great for stir-fry, stews, and add a nice touch to quiches and fritatas. 

Here I choose to steam the greens for a simple, low-calorie side, highlighting its earthy flavor while preserving its vibrant colors. Wash and prepare while the salmon is in the oven, then arrange on plate like a bed. Serve along with Baked Salmon with Garlic, Lemon, and Parsley; finish off with more lemon zest - and you are set for a fuss-free, quick, and nutrition-packed meal.

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