Y’hello, Beastie! Some meals just hit different. You take that first bite, and boom—instant restaurant-quality vibes, but without the overpriced bill. This is one of those meals. It’s fancy enough to impress, easy enough to make on a weeknight, and packed with flavors that make your taste buds do a happy dance.
We’re talking perfectly baked salmon glazed in a sweet-savory hoisin-honey magic, paired with crisp, refreshing zucchini noodles. This meal isn’t just delicious—it’s high in protein, gut-friendly, and great for keeping blood sugar balanced.
Alright, Beasties, let’s beast it!
YOU WILL NEED
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon filets (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized or julienned
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Garnish:
- 4 green scallions, chopped
INSTRUCTIONS
For the Salmon:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Glaze It: Place salmon filets on the baking sheet and generously spread the glaze over each one.
- Bake: Pop them in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salmon before serving.
For the Zucchini Noodles:
- Salt & Rest: Place the zucchini noodles in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them sit for 5 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Pat Dry & Toss: Gently pat the noodles dry with a paper towel, then toss with black pepper.
Assembly:
- Plate the salmon next to the zucchini noodles.
- Sprinkle with chopped green scallions for that fresh, peppery bite.
- Grab your fork, take a bite, and remind yourself—you made this masterpiece.
NUTRITION FACTS
This recipe serves 4, and the nutrition facts per serving are as follows:
Calories: 212 | Protein: 18g | Fat: 11g | Carbs: 10g.
WAYS TO CUSTOMIZE
- For Vegetarians: Swap the salmon for roasted tofu or tempeh. Glaze it the same way and bake until caramelized.
- For Vegans: Use firm tofu instead of salmon, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave.
- For a Lower-Carb Version: Use a sugar-free honey substitute and reduce the hoisin sauce slightly.
HEALTH BENEFITS
For Diabetics & Prediabetics:
This meal is protein-packed, which helps regulate blood sugar. Zucchini adds fiber to slow glucose absorption, and the natural sweetness of honey keeps sugar spikes in check when eaten in moderation.
For Gut Health:
Salmon’s omega-3s fight inflammation, while zucchini provides fiber that keeps digestion smooth and supports a happy gut microbiome.
And just like that, you’ve got a meal that’s equal parts delicious, nutritious, and impressively simple. Your turn, Beastie. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram. And check the Beasts shop for more recipes. Bon appétit!