Perfect Roasted Salmon

Being healthy is hard sometimes. You have to say no to foods you really want. You have to learn to like all those green veggies you hated as a kid. Then you have to learn to cook healthy foods in a way your family will like. Exhausting. Well, good thing for recipes like this that make cooking healthy a breeze. If you haven't noticed, I've been really into easy recipes lately. I dunno. Maybe it's the 6 month old baby and 3 year old at home? Just a thought.

This recipe has been making it's way around pinterest for I don't know how long. I've had it on my "to try" list for a while, and boy I should have done it earlier. It's is so easy, you don't even have to think in advance to pre-heat your oven. 

Here we go.

Start with salmon. I used 4 fillets about 5 oz each. Salmon is loaded with healthy fats and is a great source of protein. I try to have some at least once per week.

Then, sprinkle with salt and pepper and drizzle with olive oil. I used the salt sparingly - you know - to help maintain healthy blood pressure.

 I used about 1 tsp of oil per fillet, which adds about 5grams of fat for each serving. That's enough to add good flavor without making it too heavy.

Put the salmon in the oven, then turn on the oven to 400F. Let bake for 25 minutes and you'll have moist, delicious, perfectly cooked salmon. Yum!

I paired mine with brown rice and steamed broccoli. I love it when healthy things are easy.

Healthy Ideas for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is around the corner, and you know what that means: candy, chocolate, more candy, flowers, more chocolate, etc. With all those treats on sale, making healthy choices can be difficult, right?

For me, Valentine's Day is a nice way to set aside some time for my husband and I. Now that we have a bigger family, spending quality time together is even more important. So here are some healthy ways to show that special someone you care.

1. If you're going with chocolate, buy dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa). It has phytochemicals and when eaten in moderation, may help prevent heart disease. Hint: make sure cocoa is the first on the ingredient list.
2.  Go for a walk with your love.
3. Make a healthy meal together and enjoy by candlelight.
4. If you do go out to eat, share an entree. It will cut costs and control portions!
5. Celebrate Valentines Day with your kids with healthy treats like mini-boxes of raisins or pretzels, pencils or stickers.
6. Be creative: make a Valentines Day craft! Here are some cute ideas from Martha Stewart.
7. Fore more fun tips, visit the American Heart Association.

What are you doing to celebrate Valentine's Day this year?