Elevate your dinner with this Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon, a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. Served alongside nutty quinoa and vibrant asparagus, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a healthy and well-balanced meal.

Ingredients:

For the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Sliced green onions for garnish

For the Quinoa and Asparagus:

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Zest of one lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season Salmon Fillets:
   • Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Create Honey Garlic Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice.
4. Glaze Salmon:
   • Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the honey garlic glaze over each fillet, ensuring an even coating.
5. Bake the Salmon:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Broil for Caramelization:
   • For a caramelized finish, broil the salmon for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Garnish:
   • Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the glazed salmon for a visually appealing garnish.

Step 2: Cooking Quinoa and Asparagus

1. Cook Quinoa:
   • In a saucepan, combine quinoa and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
2. Prepare Asparagus:
   • While the quinoa cooks, toss the trimmed asparagus in olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Roast Asparagus:
   • Roast the asparagus in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan for 8-10 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Combine Quinoa, Asparagus, and Lemon Zest:
   • Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Mix in the roasted asparagus and lemon zest. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Serving

1. Plate and Serve:
   • Serve the Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon fillets over a bed of quinoa and asparagus.
2. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Garnish with fresh parsley and additional lemon wedges. Enjoy this flavorful and wholesome meal!

Serving Suggestions:

• Avocado Salsa:
  • Top the salmon with a refreshing avocado salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
• Mixed Greens Salad:
  • Serve with a side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette for a fresh and crisp accompaniment.

Conclusion:

This Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon with Quinoa and Asparagus is a celebration of vibrant flavors and nutritional goodness. The succulent salmon, glazed to perfection, pairs harmoniously with the nutty quinoa and tender-crisp asparagus. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings a touch of gourmet to your table while keeping things delightfully healthy. Bon appétit!