How Many Calories in Baked Salmon?

Baked salmon is a delicious and nutritious dish that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Baked salmon is also low in calories, making it an ideal food for people trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. In this article, we will discuss the calorie content of baked salmon and the health benefits of this tasty dish.

One of the main advantages of baked salmon is that it is low in calories. A 3.5-ounce serving of baked salmon contains approximately 140 calories. This is a relatively low number of calories, especially when compared to other types of meat. For example, a similar serving size of grilled chicken breast contains approximately 165 calories, while a serving of grilled beef steak contains approximately 200 calories. This makes baked salmon an excellent option for people who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

In addition to being low in calories, baked salmon is also an excellent source of protein. A 3.5-ounce serving of baked salmon contains approximately 22 grams of protein. This makes baked salmon a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegans who may have difficulty getting enough protein in their diets. The protein in baked salmon is also easily digestible, making it a great choice for people who have trouble digesting other types of protein, such as dairy or soy.

Baked salmon is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own, so we must get them from our diets. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and reducing the risk of certain types of cancer. A 3.5-ounce serving of baked salmon contains approximately 1.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a great source of this important nutrient.

In addition to its low calorie content, high protein content, and omega-3 fatty acid content, baked salmon is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. For example, a 3.5-ounce serving of baked salmon contains approximately 20% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12, which is important for maintaining healthy nerve function. Baked salmon is also a good source of vitamin D, which is important for maintaining healthy bones, and of selenium, which is important for the functioning of the immune system.

There are many different ways to prepare baked salmon, but the most common method is to bake it in the oven. To bake salmon, you will need a few simple ingredients, including salmon fillets, olive oil, salt, and pepper. To prepare the salmon, simply brush the fillets with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Then, place the fillets in a baking dish and bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

In conclusion, baked salmon is a delicious and nutritious dish that is low in calories, high in protein, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you are trying to lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, or simply looking for a delicious and healthy meal, baked salmon is an excellent choice. So, the next time you are looking for a healthy and tasty meal, try baked salmon and enjoy all of its many health benefits!