Miso Roasted Salmon

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this Miso Roasted Salmon—a recipe that pairs simplicity with sophistication. The rich umami of miso meets the tangy brightness of lemon, creating a dish that’s equal parts comforting and refreshing.

Marinated to perfection, the salmon absorbs a symphony of flavors, from the subtle sweetness of mirin to the savory depth of soy sauce. The marinade not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the fish, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavors, this dish is ideal for both casual family meals and impressive dinner gatherings. Serve it straight from the oven, beautifully charred at the edges, for an unforgettable culinary experience.

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Miso Roasted Salmon: Key Ingredients

• Shiro or Awase Miso: The heart of the marinade, miso brings a rich, savory umami depth, balancing mild sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
• Mirin: This sweet Japanese rice wine adds a delicate caramel-like note that enhances the marinade’s complexity.
• Soy Sauce: A classic staple that deepens the flavor profile with its robust, salty richness.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Bright and zesty, the lemon elements cut through the richness, offering a floral tang and refreshing acidity.
• Salmon Fillets: Tender and flavorful, the salmon serves as the perfect canvas for this harmonious blend of ingredients.

Recipe Tips

1. Marination Time is Key
   Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 12 hours and up to 48 hours for maximum flavor infusion. The extended marination lets the umami-rich miso and tangy lemon seep deep into the fish, ensuring tender, flavorful bites every time.
2. Achieving Perfect Doneness
   For best results, aim for medium-rare salmon by baking for 7 minutes at 450°F. The edges should be slightly charred for added texture while the inside remains moist. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fillets for even cooking.
3. Choose the Right Miso
   Shiro (white) miso is ideal for its mild, sweet flavor, complementing the salmon’s natural richness. Awase (mixed) miso works equally well, offering a balanced blend of sweetness and saltiness. Avoid darker varieties like red miso as they may overpower the dish.

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What to Serve with Miso Roasted Salmon

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice
   The light, fluffy texture of jasmine rice is the perfect neutral base to soak up the savory marinade, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
2. Sautéed Asian Greens
   Baby bok choy or spinach sautéed with garlic and sesame oil adds a fresh, earthy contrast to the richness of the salmon. Their slight bitterness balances the dish’s umami notes.
3. Pickled Vegetables
   Serve with quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes for a crisp, tangy side that cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate.

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FAQ

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
   Yes, frozen salmon works well. Thaw it thoroughly before marinating to ensure the flavors penetrate the fish evenly.
2. What can I substitute for mirin?
   If mirin is unavailable, you can use a mix of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar for a similar sweetness and acidity.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently to maintain its texture and flavor.
4. Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
   Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky depth to the dish. Cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side until slightly charred and cooked to your desired doneness.

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Miso Roasted Salmon

With this dish, simplicity meets sophistication. A delicate miso marinade, enriched with the savory complexity of soy sauce and the sweet balance of mirin, is brightened by zesty lemon for a vibrant, well-rounded flavor profile.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course fishe recipe, Side Dish

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• 4 salmon fillets 4 ounces each, preferably with skin
• 3 tablespoons miso ideally shiro (white) or awase (mixed)
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon avocado or canola oil plus additional for greasing

Instructions

 

• Marinate the Salmon
• In a shallow dish, combine miso, mirin, soy sauce, oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing until smooth. Place the salmon in the marinade, ensuring even coating on all sides. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours or up to 48 hours for optimal flavor infusion.
• Prepare for Cooking
• Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it with oil. Arrange the salmon fillets on the foil, skin side down if applicable, or on their cut sides.
• Cook the Salmon
• Roast in the oven until the edges of the fillets begin to char, approximately 7 minutes for medium-rare or 9 minutes for a medium finish. Serve immediately to enjoy at its peak freshness.

Notes

For thinner, elongated pieces reminiscent of Japanese breakfast preparations, slice the fillets into 1-inch-wide strips after scaling.
Shiro miso offers a milder, sweeter flavor profile, while awase miso provides a balanced blend of sweetness and saltiness. Both work well in this dish.
Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the thickness of your salmon to achieve the desired doneness.

Keyword Miso Roasted Salmon