It’s snowy here in the Northeast and we tend to be cooped up inside. I love it in the beginning–it gives me time to be in the kitchen to try new recipes. But after awhile, I like to spend time around a table with friends and family.

Last night, in honor of Heart Health Month, I prepared Maple-Glazed Salmon with Pineapple. It is a family favorite and so simple and tasty. It’s even good enough to serve to guests 🙂

In addition to being tasty, here is another reason I like to serve this dish:

Studies show that eating two or more servings of fish a week is associated with a 30% reduction of risk in developing coronary heart disease. Fish like salmon is high in omega-3 fats, which help lower levels of triglycerides in the blood that may contribute to blood clotting. Other good sources of omega-3 include flaxseed oil, chia seeds and walnuts.

 Maple-Glazed Salmon with Pineapple
A delicious way to get a good dose of those heart-healthy omega-3s

Ingredients

• ½ cup maple syrup
• 2 Tbs Dijon mustard
• 4 6-oz salmon fillets
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup pineapple, chunks or slices
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 2 cups cooked brown rice or quinoa

Directions

1. Pre-heat broiler. Whisk together maple syrup and mustard in a small saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Place salmon in a foil lined 9×13 baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Place the pineapple and jalapeno on top of  the salmon. Brush the salmon with the syrup mixture. Broil for 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily. Serve the salmon and pineapple with the rice and drizzle with tablespoon of remaining glaze, if desired.
3. Serve with a mixed green salad topped with walnuts, roasted pineapple, red onion and a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese, dressed with this simple vinaigrette:

Maple Vinaigrette

Ingredients

• 1 Tbs real maple syrup
• 1 tsp of Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbs red wine vinegar
• 1/4 tsp of kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper
• 2 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

Put all ingredients into a small jar, cover it and shake until emulsified (or whisk in a medium bowl).

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To round out my heart-healthy meal, I chose a red wine recommended by Lori Schaefer of Pairings Wine and Food: the Pietra Santa Pinot Noir, a full-bodied Pinot Noir from Cienega Valley, California that runs under $20.  Black cherry and hints of smoke in the bouquet and minerally spices and tones of mocha in the mouth.  Nicely balanced and persistent.

Scientific literature indicates that people who drink moderately are less likely to have heart disease than those who abstain. Alcohol seems to raise HDL levels — the “good cholesterol”. Red wine “thins” the blood (making it less prone to clotting) and also contains powerful antioxidants: flavonoids that prevent arteries from taking up LDL and cholesterol. The trick is to stay within moderation — remember one drink equals 5 oz of wine, 1.5 oz of liquor or 12 oz of beer.

There you have it: another delicious heart-healthy meal, tasty enough to serve to guests! So why not invite some friends to gather around your table and nourish both body and soul. The meal is all planned out — all you have to do is pick up the phone 🙂

Enjoy!

Denise

Come sample delightful recipes and see how easy it is to keep your heart healthy:

Join me at the next Denise’s Table event:

Love Your Heart!

March 5th, 7:30-9:00pm
$65 pp at La Patisserie

Bring a friend & receive 15% off. Sign-up by Feb. 26th!