This creamy air fryer miso salmon is super quick to make and has a rich flavor that you’ll love! The miso gives the fish a tasty, umami kick that’s hard to resist.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. If you can’t find salmon, try using trout or even chicken breast for a different protein. Both can handle the miso marinade while still being delicious.
Miso Paste: White miso offers a mild, sweet flavor. If it’s not available, yellow miso can work as a substitute but will give a stronger taste. For a vegan option, look for chickpea miso or omit it entirely.
Soy Sauce: Look for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish healthier. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari is a great alternative, and it still gives that savory depth.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener adds a lovely caramelization. For a vegan choice, stick with maple syrup. Alternatively, agave syrup is also a suitable option if you’re avoiding honey.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Turns Out Moist and Delicious?
Getting perfectly cooked salmon is crucial for this dish. Start by patting the fish dry—this helps achieve that crispy texture. The marinade is essential, so let the salmon sit in it for at least 10 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also helps keep the fish moist during cooking.
- Preheat your air fryer to lock in that heat before cooking.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) and check the salmon after 8 minutes. It should flake easily and be opaque.
- Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; it allows the juices to redistribute for a moist bite!
20 Minutes Only Creamy Air Fryer Miso Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional side: steamed broccoli or rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is super quick! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and marinating, and around 8-10 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the white miso paste, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and mayonnaise (if you want it creamier). Mix until smooth and well combined; this will create a tasty marinade for your salmon.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
Take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them to cook better. Season the fillets lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Marinate the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the creamy marinade over the salmon, making sure they are well coated. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes to soak up all that great flavor.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
While your salmon is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your salmon cooks evenly and turns out perfectly.
5. Cook the Salmon:
Once marinated, carefully transfer the salmon fillets into the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them, so they cook properly. Air fry the salmon for about 8-10 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve it immediately with your choice of sides, such as steamed broccoli or rice. Enjoy your delightful creamy air fryer miso salmon!
Can I Substitute the Miso Paste?
Absolutely! If you don’t have white miso paste, you can use tahini or a different type of miso, like yellow or red. Just keep in mind that yellow miso is slightly sweeter, while red miso has a stronger flavor, so adjust the sweetness of your marinade accordingly.
What If I Don’t Have an Air Fryer?
No problem! You can bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes instead. Just place the marinated salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and it will turn out just as delicious!
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave on medium power, or briefly in a pan over low heat, making sure not to overdo it to keep it moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! For some heat, you can add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the marinade. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top after cooking for an extra kick!
