Fight Fatigue With This Salmon and Avocado Recipe for Cancer Patients and Survivors

Sylvia Crowder, PhD

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting cancer patients and survivors, providing essential energy for recovery. Eating nutrient-rich meals can help support energy levels, recovery, and overall well-being during and after cancer treatment. 

Moffitt Cancer Center nutrition researcher Sylvia Crowder, PhD, developed the “Cancer Cookbook” featuring recipes from top organizations and researchers that emphasize nutrient-rich foods with cancer-fighting properties. 

This collection highlights a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, fruits and whole grains — packed with nutrients and antioxidants to aid recovery and promote overall health. 

How This Salmon and Avocado Recipe Can Help Fight Fatigue 

Give this recipe a try on those days when you find yourself low on energy. The star of this dish is the nutritious, creamy avocado sauce that not only adds delightful flavor but also can be a saving grace if you’re experiencing difficulties with swallowing or discomfort while eating. 

Salmon provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while avocado contributes heart-healthy fats that can help provide lasting energy. Paired with Greek yogurt, the creamy sauce may also be easier to eat for people experiencing sore mouths or throat discomfort during treatment. 

Salmon Fillet With Yogurt Avocado Sauce

(Excerpt from the “Cancer Cookbook”) 

Prep: 15 minutes  

Cooking: 10 minutes  

Servings: 4 

Why You'll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy Fats in Avocado: Avocados offer a nourishing boost to sustain your energy throughout the day. 

• Lean Protein from Salmon: This supports muscle health and provides essential omega-3 fatty acids. 

• Cooling Yogurt Sauce: This is perfect to soothe throat discomfort. 

• Ingredients
  • 1 avocado 
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 
  • 3 tablespoons cilantro leaves 
  • 1 clove garlic 
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice 
  • 1 tablespoon water, plus more as needed 
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for seasoning 
  • 1 teaspoon ground pepper, plus more for seasoning 
  • 4 salmon fillets
  • Olive oil, for brushing
     
• Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. 
  2. Combine avocado, yogurt, cilantro, garlic, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon water and 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a food processor and blend until smooth. If necessary, add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until sauce reaches desired consistency. 
  3. Place fish skin side down on prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper and brush with olive oil. Bake fish until just cooked through, 8 to 10 minutes. Fish should register 145 degrees using an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part of the fillet, usually the middle. 
  4. Serve fish topped with sauce. 
• Nutrition Tip for Extra Calories and Healthy Fats

  If you need additional calories during treatment or recovery, add olive oil to the sauce for additional healthy fats and calories. 

   

Looking for More Healthy Recipes During Cancer Treatment? 

Ready to enjoy the benefits of a balanced meal? Give this recipe a try and share your experience! 

For more meal ideas that support nutrition during and after cancer treatment, explore the full “Cancer Cookbook,” which features breakfast, entrée, and side dish recipes designed to help patients and survivors incorporate nourishing ingredients into everyday meals.