Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame

Name: Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; ¼ cup miso paste; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted); 2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

When I first experimented with the flavors of miso and sesame, I was astounded by how beautifully they complemented each other. This Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame is now a staple in my kitchen, showcasing the umami richness of miso while the toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. I love how simple it is to prepare a dish that feels both gourmet and comforting. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, this recipe has become my go-to for impressing family and friends with a sophisticated yet easy meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:46:12.848Z

One night, craving something flavorful and satisfying, I opted to use miso paste for glaze on salmon. The results were incredible! The richness of the salmon paired beautifully with the slightly sweet and salty miso, creating a depth of flavor that was irresistible. What I learned is that marinating the salmon for even a short period can significantly enhance its taste.

While experimenting with toppings, I decided sesame seeds were the perfect addition. They not only added a lovely crunch but also brought an earthy note that complemented the dish. I recommend toasting the seeds lightly to enhance their nutty flavor before sprinkling!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory miso flavor enhances the salmon's natural richness
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
Nutty sesame seeds provide delightful texture and crunch

      

Understanding Miso and Its Role

Miso is a fermented soybean paste that brings a distinctive umami flavor to dishes. In this recipe, the miso paste serves as the base of the marinade, infusing the salmon with depth and richness. The fermentation process enhances its savory qualities, making it a perfect match for the natural flavors of salmon. Using a white or yellow miso will yield a milder taste, while red miso offers a bolder flavor profile. Experimenting with different types of miso can elevate this dish to new heights.

The combination of miso and honey in the marinade not only balances the salty flavor but also helps in caramelizing the salmon as it cooks. As the salmon grills, the sugars in the honey contribute to a glossy, appealing glaze that enhances visual appeal and flavor. To prevent burning, keep an eye on the salmon and adjust your heat as necessary, ensuring you achieve a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Perfect Cooking Techniques

Cooking salmon can be tricky, as overcooking leads to dryness. For optimal results, use a medium heat and aim for about 4-5 minutes per side. When the salmon is cooked, the flesh should appear opaque and easily flake with a fork. If you're using a skillet, a non-stick surface can be a big help in avoiding sticking and ensuring even cooking. By carefully monitoring the cooking time, you’ll achieve a tender, juicy fillet with a flavorful crust.

If you prefer an even smokier flavor, consider grilling the salmon on a cedar plank. This method adds a gentle woodiness that pairs beautifully with the miso. Just soak the plank in water for at least an hour before grilling to prevent it from burning. Remember to preheat your grill before placing the salmon on the plank for best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a flavorful dish.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
¼ cup miso paste
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)
2 green onions (sliced, for garnish)

Make sure to have everything on hand to enjoy this delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps for perfect Miso Glazed Salmon.

Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine miso paste, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk until smooth and well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors infuse.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the heat, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds, and garnish with sliced green onions. Enjoy immediately!

This dish is fantastic served with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding ginger or garlic to the marinade. You can also substitute the salmon with chicken thighs for a different protein.

Creative Serving Suggestions

This Miso Glazed Salmon pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it atop a bed of jasmine rice or alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fish. The bright flavors can be further enhanced with a sprinkle of lime juice or zest for a citrusy lift. A light drizzle of extra sesame oil right before serving adds an additional dimension of flavor.

For a complete meal, try pairing this salmon with steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy. The slight bitterness of these greens complements the sweet and savory miso glaze beautifully. Moreover, offering a dipping sauce made from the leftover marinade (simmered for food safety) provides an additional burst of flavor that your guests will appreciate.

Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can easily be prepared in advance, making it ideal for meal prep. The marinade will keep well in the refrigerator for about a week, allowing you to marinate the salmon fillets in advance. For best flavor absorption, marinate for at least an hour, but overnight is preferred for deeper flavor penetration.

If you're looking to store the cooked salmon, keep in mind that it can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture, adding a splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil to the dish before covering it with foil. This will help preserve the texture, ensuring it doesn't dry out during reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, this marinade works well with white fish like cod or tilapia.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

For best results, marinate the salmon for at least 15 minutes, but you can leave it for up to 1 hour in the fridge.

→ Is miso paste gluten-free?

It depends on the brand; check the packaging to ensure it's labeled gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the marinade in advance and marinate the salmon the day before cooking for enhanced flavor.