Baked Salmon with Avocado Mango Salsa and Brown Rice

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 1 lime (zested and juiced)

- 1 clove garlic (minced)

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Avocado Mango Salsa:

- 1 ripe avocado (diced)

- 1 ripe mango (diced)

- 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)

- 1 small red bell pepper (diced)

- 1 jalapeño (seeded and finely chopped)

- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped)

- 1 lime (juiced)

- Salt to taste

For the Brown Rice:

- 1 cup brown rice

- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)

- 1 tablespoon olive oil

- Salt to taste

For Garnish:

- Fresh lime wedges

- Fresh cilantro (chopped)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon:

- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

- Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the fillets are well coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.

2. Cook the Brown Rice:

- Rinse the brown rice under cold water.

- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes.

- Add the chicken broth (or water) and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

- Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

3. Prepare the Avocado Mango Salsa:

- In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocado, mango, red onion, red bell pepper, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.

- Add the lime juice and a pinch of salt. Gently toss to combine. Set aside.

4. Bake the Salmon:

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

- Place the marinated salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

5. Assemble the Dish:

- Divide the cooked brown rice between two plates.

- Place a baked salmon fillet on each plate.

- Top the salmon with a generous spoonful of avocado mango salsa.

6. Garnish and Serve:

- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your vibrant and healthy meal for two!