Winter is upon us and especially as a college student struggling with a heavy course load, that means time for comfort food. During this time of year, I always crave hearty meals that aren’t the healthiest choice. The lack of fresh produce available also makes it difficult to eat well and stay healthy during these cold months.

Eating well plays a big part in staying healthy, so, on top of an endless rotation of DayQuil/NyQuil this winter, I’m trying to fit more vitamin rich foods into my diet. I wanted to find some more interesting recipes, with easily accessible ingredients, that would inspire me stay healthy.

This easy meal includes fresh oranges, which are high in vitamins A and C as well as calcium, and salmon which contains vitamins B-12 and D. These vitamins are important to strengthen your immune system and keep you feeling good all winter long. The salmon and citrus salad can be made on their own or together to pack a punch of health and help defend you against the dreaded cold and flu season.

Sesame Citrus Salmon with Caramelized Orange Salad

  • Prep Time:5 minutes
  • Cook Time:20 minutes
  • Total Time:25 minutes
  • Servings:1
  • Medium

    Ingredients

  • 6 oz salmon
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 orange
  • 1 lemon
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • 1.5 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 cup salad greens
  • Olive oil
  • teaspoon Pine nuts
Photo by Helena Lin
  • Step 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F.

  • Step 2

    Place the salmon on a greased tray or parchment paper and drizzle with sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper. Thinly slice a few pieces of orange and lemon and place on the fish as well.

    Photo by Helena Lin
  • Step 3

    Bake for 15 – 20 minutes, or until the salmon is firm and cooked through.

  • Step 4

    Meanwhile, slice what’s left of your orange and remove the peel.

    Photo by Helena Lin
  • Step 5

    Melt the butter and brown sugar in a pan over medium high heat.

    Photo by Helena Lin
  • Step 6

    Add the orange slices and cook, about 3 minutes per side, until they begin to brown and soften.

    Photo by Helena Lin
  • Step 7

    Place the cooked salmon on a plate with the salad greens. Drizzle greens with olive oil and top with the oranges and pine nuts.

    Photo by Helena Lin