Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame

Name: Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 2 tablespoons miso paste; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame. This dish captures the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and umami flavors that miso brings to the table. Pairing it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful crunch. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or special occasions. I’m sure you’ll enjoy this delectable fusion as much as I do!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:52:05.803Z

When I first experimented with miso, I was amazed at how transformative it is for seafood. The miso glaze is incredibly simple yet packs a punch. After several trials, I found that marinating the salmon for just 15 minutes creates the perfect balance of flavors without overpowering the fish. It’s amazing how such a short time can yield such succulent results!

I also discovered that finishing the dish under the broiler for a couple of minutes gives a marvelous char. This method elevates the overall texture of the salmon, making each bite a delightful experience. Don’t skip this step!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously rich flavor profile from the miso marinade
Perfectly flaky salmon with a crisp finish
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners

      

Why Miso Works Wonders

Miso paste serves as a flavor powerhouse in this recipe. Its fermentation process brings depth, introducing a rich umami profile that complements the natural taste of the salmon exceptionally well. The mixing of sweet honey and salty soy sauce in the marinade balances the inherent richness of the fish, ensuring each bite is both savory and satisfying. The miso caramelizes beautifully during baking, creating an appealing glossy finish that enhances the dish's visual appeal.

When selecting miso, consider the type: white miso offers a milder, sweeter flavor, while red miso provides a more robust taste. This means you can tailor your glaze to suit your preferences. For a more potent umami kick, you might opt for a combination of both types. Also, if you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, coconut aminos can replace soy sauce in the marinade without sacrificing flavor.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Achieving perfectly flaky salmon is all about timing and temperature. Preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the fish cooks evenly from the outside in. While some salmon fillets may require slightly longer, keep a close eye on them—a general rule of thumb is to bake for 4-5 minutes per half-inch of thickness. If your fillets are on the thicker side, checking for doneness using a fork, which should easily flake the fish at the thickest part, is essential.

Broiling at the end is crucial for developing that caramelized crust. This process can happen quickly; thus, staying nearby is essential to avoid burning the glaze. Ideally, the salmon should retain a slightly moist texture inside while developing a golden crust outside. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can rotate the pan for even cooking or even lower the rack in the oven to reduce heat exposure.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make Miso Glazed Salmon:

Ingredients for Miso Glazed Salmon

2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
2 tablespoons miso paste
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Make sure everything is fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare Miso Glazed Salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth. This glaze will balance the flavors beautifully.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the salmon marinate for about 15 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Bake the Salmon

Transfer the salmon to the prepared baking sheet, reserving the marinade. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through.

Broil for Finish

Switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a nice, caramelized finish on top.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from the oven, sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top before serving.

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed chili flakes to the marinade or the finished dish for a subtle heat.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Miso Glazed Salmon is ready, there are plenty of ways to serve it. Pair it with steamed rice for a classic contrast to the flavorful fish. You can also add sautéed greens, like bok choy or spinach, to add color and nutrition. For an Asian twist, consider serving with a side of pickled vegetables, which can balance the richness of the salmon while adding a crunchy texture.

Don’t forget about presentation! A simple garnish of sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds not only looks beautiful but also adds a pop of freshness and crunch. For an extra touch, drizzle with a little sesame oil before serving; it elevates the dish further while enhancing the nutty flavor that sesame brings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is fantastic for meal prepping! The miso marinade can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Additionally, you can marinate the salmon fillets a few hours early, allowing the fish to absorb those stunning flavors. However, it’s best not to exceed a 24-hour marinating timeframe to avoid an overly salty taste.

If you find yourself with leftover salmon, it can be refrigerated for 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture, typically around 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes. You can also enjoy the leftovers cold, flaked into salads or grain bowls for a delightful lunch option that requires minimal effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with trout or halibut, but adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the fish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, and reheat gently to avoid drying out.

→ Is miso paste gluten-free?

Some miso pastes contain barley, which has gluten. Always check the label for gluten-free options.

→ What can I serve with this salmon?

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