Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon Recipe

Transform your weeknight dinners with this quick and flavorful Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon recipe! Packed with savory-sweet umami flavors, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy schedules. With the magic of the air fryer, you can achieve perfectly cooked salmon that’s tender and flaky on the inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside. Plus, this recipe uses minimal oil, making it a healthy choice without compromising on taste.

Not only is this salmon a nutritional powerhouse—rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein—but the miso glaze elevates it to restaurant-quality status. Serve it with steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal. If you’re a fan of quick and easy air fryer dishes, check out this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones recipe for another weeknight favorite.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon Recipe

A Perfect Combination of Flavor and Ease

The miso glaze strikes the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy, giving your salmon an irresistible umami-packed flavor. Miso, a fermented soybean paste, is a versatile ingredient that enhances any dish with its depth of flavor. In this recipe, the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, creating a perfect golden-brown crust on the salmon. Plus, the air fryer ensures evenly cooked salmon with minimal effort.

Health Benefits of Salmon

Salmon is a nutrient-dense superfood, loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health. Combined with the low-calorie miso glaze, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Looking for another salmon recipe? Try this Grilled Salmon Salad here for a fresh and healthy twist.

Fast, Easy, and Minimal Cleanup

With the air fryer, you can achieve perfect results without preheating an oven or using a messy stovetop pan. This recipe is fast, easy, and requires minimal cleanup—ideal for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time.

Ingredients for Miso-Glazed Salmon

• Salmon Fillets (4, about 6 oz each): Fresh or frozen and thawed fillets work well. Wild-caught salmon is often preferred for its rich flavor, but farm-raised salmon is also a great option.
• White or Yellow Miso Paste (2 tbsp): Adds that signature umami flavor. Miso paste can be found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores or Asian markets.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari (2 tbsp): Provides a salty, savory kick. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce.
• Mirin or Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp): Balances the flavors with a touch of acidity. Mirin adds a hint of sweetness, while rice vinegar brings a tangier note.
• Honey or Maple Syrup (1 tbsp): Adds sweetness to complement the miso and helps the glaze caramelize during cooking.
• Sesame Seeds (1 tsp, optional): For garnish and added texture. Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor.
• Green Onions (2 tbsp, sliced, optional): For a fresh, vibrant topping that enhances the dish’s presentation.

If you’re a fan of innovative air fryer recipes, don’t miss this Air Fryer Turkey Burgers recipe for a healthier spin on a classic burger.

Step-by-Step Instructions Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon

1: Prepare the Miso Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, mirin, and honey until smooth. This glaze will coat the salmon beautifully and caramelize during cooking. For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of grated ginger or minced garlic to the glaze. These aromatics enhance the savory profile of the dish and complement the richness of the salmon.

2: Marinate the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and place them on a plate or shallow dish. Brush the miso glaze generously over each fillet, ensuring even coverage. Let the salmon marinate for 10-15 minutes while you preheat the air fryer. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the salmon, enhancing its taste and creating a more flavorful dish.

3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a caramelized finish. Preheating the air fryer also helps the glaze set quickly, preventing it from dripping excessively.

4: Cook the Salmon

Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If your air fryer has a “broil” function, you can use it for the last 2 minutes to achieve an even deeper caramelization on the glaze.

5: Garnish and Serve

Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish. Serve immediately with your choice of sides. For added flavor, drizzle a little extra glaze over the salmon before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon Recipe

• Choose Fresh, High-Quality Salmon: Look for bright, firm fillets with no fishy smell. Fresh salmon will yield the best flavor and texture.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the salmon during the last few minutes to prevent it from drying out. Overcooked salmon can lose its tenderness and become tough.
• Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. It also helps keep the glaze intact on the salmon.
• Customize the Glaze: Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the glaze to suit your personal preference. For example, add a bit more honey for a sweeter glaze or extra soy sauce for a saltier flavor profile.

Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon Variations

• Miso Types: Experiment with red miso for a bolder flavor or white miso for a milder taste. Each type of miso will give the glaze a unique character.
• Add Aromatics: Incorporate minced ginger or garlic into the glaze for extra depth. These ingredients add complexity to the dish and enhance the overall flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with tofu or eggplant slices for a plant-based version. Tofu absorbs the miso glaze beautifully, creating a flavorful alternative.
• Spicy Glaze: Add chili paste, red pepper flakes, or sriracha to the glaze for a kick of heat. This variation is perfect for spice lovers who enjoy bold flavors.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon

Steamed Rice or Quinoa

A neutral grain like rice or quinoa perfectly complements the bold flavors of the miso glaze. Jasmine rice or sushi rice are especially good choices for an authentic pairing. For a fun side dish, try this Mashed Potato Puffs Recipe here.

Stir-Fried or Roasted Vegetables

Pair the salmon with bok choy, asparagus, or bell peppers for a healthy, vibrant side. Roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes also work wonderfully.

Fresh Salad

A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the salmon. Try a mix of arugula, spinach, and orange segments for a refreshing side.

Miso Soup

Complement the meal with a warm bowl of Miso Soup for a cohesive, Japanese-inspired dinner. Add seaweed, tofu, and green onions to the soup for extra flavor.

FAQ

This Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and incredibly convenient recipe that will elevate your weekly meals. The savory-sweet umami glaze combined with the tender, flaky salmon creates a dish that’s perfect for weeknights, special dinners, or meal prep. With minimal effort and cleanup required, this recipe makes it easier than ever to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

For more air fryer inspiration, you can explore recipes like the Air Fryer Turkey Burgers here for a healthy take on a classic, or try the Grilled Salmon Salad here for a fresh and nutritious pairing. Pair this salmon with sides like Mashed Potato Puffs here or a warm bowl of miso soup for the ultimate experience.

What are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try today and share your creations with us!