Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and can be introduced as a regular part of a child's diet very early. I love this recipe because it is mildly sweet and introduces a familiar flavor of orange and lemon which kids generally love. This can be made with a large family-sized fillet (great for company!) or smaller, single sized fillets (which can be split between young children). We recently had a Pirate Party at the Dr. Yum Project Kitchen, where we made healthy pirate foods for preschool-aged kids.
For reluctant eaters or those new to salmon, introduce salmon with a “Salmon Roll-up.” Shred up some of the fish first. Then spread some cream cheese on a whole wheat flour or corn tortilla, and sprinkle the salmon on top. Roll up the mixture tightly and slice into little bite-sized slices. This worked great at our Pirate party and parents were amazed to see their kids eating fish! Great idea for school lunch.
Ingredients
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4
salmon fillets, (6 oz. fillet)
(or a single large fillet to serve 6-8)
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place fish on a baking sheet skin side down and lightly salt. Mix grated lemon rind, fresh lemon juice, honey, chili powder, ground cumin, red pepper flakes and juice concentrate in a saucepan and before heating, brush the fish with the orange mixture. Place orange and lemon slices on top and bake until flaky (about 15 minutes for small fillets and 20-25 for larger, thicker piece). While the fish is baking, place the saucepan with orange mixture on high heat until boiling. Reduce heat to medium and cook about 2 minutes until reduced by almost half. When salmon is done (should be cooked but still moist on the inside), drizzle with this sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.
Babyfood Option:
If there is a family history of food allergies then talk to your child's doctor about when it is safe to start fish. For most babies however, soft flaky fish is a great first food for babies. Mash or cut fish into bite size pieces for new eaters to spoon feed or self-feed. Smoosh or blend into other soft foods for a smoother texture.