Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame

Name: Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 3 tablespoons white miso paste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame because it combines rich umami flavors with a hint of sweetness that elevates the humble salmon to something extraordinary. The marinade is simple yet incredibly effective, allowing the salmon to soak in all those delicious notes. It becomes a go-to dish for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike, and the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender fish. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your house too!

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:31:15.461Z

When I first tried Miso Glazed Salmon, I was blown away by how simple yet impactful the flavors were. The marinade of miso, soy sauce, and mirin transforms the salmon into a piece of art on a plate. I started with fresh salmon fillets and let them soak in this incredible mix for about 30 minutes. The result? A perfect balance of savory and sweet that just melts in your mouth.

One of my favorite tips I've discovered is to broil the salmon for the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the glaze to caramelize beautifully, developing a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist. It's a little trick that takes this dish from great to absolutely spectacular!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich umami flavor from the miso paired with the delicate salmon
Quick and easy preparation that makes it perfect for any occasion
A beautiful presentation that impresses guests and family alike

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Miso Paste

The star of this Miso Glazed Salmon is undoubtedly the white miso paste. Its unique blend of fermented soybeans, rice, and salt gives the salmon a deep umami flavor that is both savory and slightly sweet. This ingredient not only enhances the dish's complexity but also adds nutritional benefits such as probiotics. When selecting miso, aim for high-quality varieties that are not overly salty to maintain balance in the dish.

If you find yourself without white miso, a combination of tahini and a splash of soy sauce can serve as a good substitute, though the flavor will differ slightly. Keep in mind that different types of miso—such as red or yellow—have varying intensities, so adjust the quantity to your taste preference.

Technique Tips for Perfectly Baked Salmon

To achieve the best results, ensure your salmon is at room temperature before marinating. This step helps the marinade penetrate better, allowing for maximum flavor infusion. While marinating, a glass or ceramic dish is ideal, as it won’t react with the acids in the marinade. Aim for a marinade time of at least 30 minutes; however, if you have more time, letting it sit for up to two hours can enhance the richness even further.

When baking, place the salmon with the skin side down on the lined baking sheet. This serves two purposes: first, it prevents sticking, and second, it retains moisture. Bake until the edges of the salmon look firm and opaque, typically around 15 minutes. Remember that salmon can quickly change from perfectly cooked to dry, so keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Miso Glazed Salmon pairs excellently with a side of steamed rice or quinoa, allowing the flavors to shine through without overpowering the palate. For added vibrancy, consider serving alongside sautéed bok choy or a light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar. Alternatively, if you want to serve it cold, flake the cooked salmon over a fresh green salad for a delightful lunch option.

For those looking to experiment, try adding orange zest to the marinade for a citrus twist or incorporating a teaspoon of ginger for an extra flavor layer. You could also play with the seeds; replacing sesame seeds with poppy seeds or chopped nuts can provide a different taste and texture, making the recipe your own.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your flavorful miso glazed salmon:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
3 tablespoons white miso paste
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results in flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the white miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, and honey until smooth. This will be your marinade.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure to coat each fillet well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Broil for Extra Flavor

For a caramelized finish, switch the oven to broil and cook the salmon for an additional 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove from oven, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Miso Glazed Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, gently heat it in the oven at a low temperature, about 275°F (135°C), to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, covering it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat until just warmed through; this usually takes about 1-2 minutes depending on the microwave's power.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can marinate the salmon up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure that it stays refrigerated and covered. If you’d like to freeze the marinated salmon, do so before cooking. Place the fillets in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before following the baking instructions.

Troubleshooting and Common Failures

One common issue when making Miso Glazed Salmon is ending up with dry fish. This often occurs due to overcooking. Salmon is best when it reaches an internal temperature of 125°F (52°C) for medium doneness; use a meat thermometer to check. If you prefer it cooked through, aim for 145°F (63°C), but be cautious of cooking it too long, which can result in a loss of moisture.

Another concern can be uneven marination, leading to inconsistent flavors. To avoid this, consider gently flipping the fillets halfway through the marinating time. If you notice any burning while broiling, reduce the distance to the upper heating element or lower the broiler setting; your oven's broiler might run hotter than others, causing the potential for overcooking.

Adapting for Dietary Needs

If you're looking to make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari. This alternative maintains the umami profile without the gluten, ensuring everyone can enjoy this savory dish. Additionally, for a low-sugar option, consider using a low-calorie sweetener in place of honey; just adjust the quantity to taste, as some sweeteners are much sweeter than honey.

Vegetarian or vegan households can adapt this recipe by replacing salmon with thick slices of tofu or eggplant. The miso glaze will enhance the base, providing a robust flavor profile similar to that of salmon. Baking or grilling these alternatives with the same marinade can create a satisfying plant-based meal that still captures the essence of Miso Glazed Salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or cod, but be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 2 hours; just avoid marinating too long as the acidity can change the texture.

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.