Miso and honey glazed salmon is a beautiful fusion of umami and sweetness, enhanced with a touch of nuttiness from toasted sesame seeds. This dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors—savory, slightly sweet, and rich with a depth that makes every bite irresistible. The caramelization from the honey and miso glaze creates a glossy, slightly sticky coating on the salmon, giving it an almost lacquered finish.
✔ Small mixing bowl – To whisk the miso-honey glaze.
✔ Whisk or fork – Ensures the glaze is smooth and well-mixed.
✔ Oven-safe skillet or baking sheet – For roasting or broiling.
✔ Brush or spoon – To coat the salmon evenly.
✔ Small pan – For toasting the sesame seeds.
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Ingredients
For the Salmon:
4salmon filletsabout 6 oz each, skin-on or skinless
1tbspneutral oilavocado, grapeseed, or sesame oil
2tbspsesame seedswhite or black, toasted
1green onionthinly sliced (for garnish)
For the Miso-Honey Glaze:
3tbspwhite miso paste
2tbsphoney
1tbspsoy sauceor tamari for gluten-free
1tbsprice vinegar
1tspgrated ginger
1tspsesame oil
1garlic cloveminced
1tbspwaterto thin, if needed
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds
In a dry pan over medium heat, add the sesame seeds and stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Miso-Honey Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, sesame oil, and garlic until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add 1 tbsp of water to loosen it.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Brush the miso-honey glaze generously over each fillet, coating them evenly. Let the salmon marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature (or up to 1 hour in the fridge for deeper flavor).
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
There are two ways to cook the salmon, depending on your preference:
🔥 Option 1: Broil for a Caramelized Finish
Preheat the broiler to high (500°F / 260°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and broil for 6-8 minutes, until the top is caramelized and slightly charred.
🔥 Option 2: Pan-Sear for a Crispier Texture
Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Place the salmon skin-side down and sear for 3-4 minutes until crisp.
Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes, brushing on additional glaze in the final minute.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the cooked salmon to a plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
Serving SuggestionsSteamed jasmine rice or quinoa – A neutral base to soak up the miso-honey glaze.
Sautéed bok choy or spinach – Adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast.
Pickled cucumbers or kimchi – Cuts through the richness with acidity.
Miso soup or edamame – Complements the Japanese-inspired flavors.
Storage & Reheating TipsTo Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.