This miso salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. A lightly sweet and savory miso glaze caramelizes under high heat, creating a golden finish and tender, flaky salmon that feels restaurant-worthy while still being easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It comes together quickly with just a short marinade and fast broil time
• The miso glaze adds deep umami flavor without overpowering the salmon
• The recipe uses a small number of pantry-friendly ingredients
• It works beautifully for both casual dinners and special occasions
• The salmon stays moist, flaky, and never tastes overly “fishy”

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 oz (340 g) salmon fillet, or two 6 oz (170 g) fillets
• 2 tablespoons white miso paste
• 1 tablespoon salt-reduced soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon mirin or rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Optional for serving

• Cooked jasmine rice
• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Sliced cucumber
• Pickled ginger

Directions

1. In a deep bowl, whisk together the white miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, honey, and sesame oil until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Place the salmon into the bowl flesh side down and coat evenly with the marinade. Marinate for 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the oven broiler to 480°F (250°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
4. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the excess. Place the salmon skin side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Broil on the middle oven rack for 6 to 9 minutes, depending on thickness and preferred doneness.
6. Remove the tray from the oven and brush the salmon with the reserved marinade.
7. Return the salmon to a higher rack closer to the broiler and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely until the glaze is golden and caramelized.
8. Remove from the oven and allow to rest briefly before serving with your preferred sides.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep time: 7 minutes
• Marinating time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 12 minutes
• Total time: approximately 49 minutes

Variations

• Use individual salmon portions instead of one large fillet for quicker cooking
• Substitute cod or another firm white fish for a lighter result
• Add a small amount of grated fresh ginger to the marinade for extra warmth
• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chili flakes for added texture and heat
• Cube the salmon before marinating and cook as bite-sized pieces for bowls

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover miso salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until just warmed through. The salmon can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month, though the texture is best when enjoyed fresh.

FAQs

Can I marinate the salmon overnight?

It is not recommended, as the miso glaze can become too salty and overpower the fish.

What type of miso works best for this recipe?

White miso is ideal because it has a milder, slightly sweet flavor that complements salmon.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at high heat for about 7 to 10 minutes, checking early as air fryers cook quickly.

Is this dish healthy?

Salmon is rich in protein and omega-3 fats, and miso adds flavor without needing heavy sauces.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in the center.

Can I reduce the sodium in this recipe?

Use salt-reduced soy sauce and avoid brushing on extra marinade at the end.

What can I serve with miso salmon?

It pairs well with rice, quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad.

Will the miso burn under the broiler?

It can if left unattended, so keep a close eye during the final minutes of cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

It is naturally dairy-free, and you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if needed.

Conclusion

Miso salmon is a flavorful, fuss-free dish that proves simple ingredients can create incredible results. With its caramelized glaze, tender texture, and versatile serving options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick dinner or an impressive meal to share.

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