Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that feels special but isn't overly complicated? Then look no further! This Miso-Glazed Salmon with Sesame Asparagus recipe brings the elegance of Asian fine dining right to your kitchen table. It's a quick dinner idea, perfect for a weeknight meal or a sophisticated weekend treat. This easy recipe delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort, showcasing the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
For the Miso Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sake (optional, can substitute with extra mirin or dry sherry)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
For the Salmon:
- 2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets, skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sesame Asparagus:
- 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preparing the Miso Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, mirin, sake (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and grated ginger until smooth. Set aside.
Cooking the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly oil a baking dish.
- Place the salmon fillets in the baking dish.
- Brush the salmon generously with the miso glaze.
Cooking the Asparagus:
- While the oven preheats, snap off the tough ends of the asparagus.
- In a separate bowl, toss the asparagus with sesame oil, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
Baking:
- Place both the salmon and asparagus in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the asparagus is tender-crisp. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
Serving:
Serve the miso-glazed salmon immediately alongside the sesame asparagus. Garnish with extra sesame seeds, if desired. This delicious dish pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the miso glaze.
- Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for a touch of heat.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to substitute the asparagus with other vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or snap peas.
- Leftovers: This dish is just as delicious the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Miso-Glazed Salmon with Sesame Asparagus recipe is a testament to how simple, healthy meals can be incredibly flavorful and impressive. It's a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious dishes that impress without hours spent in the kitchen. Enjoy this taste of Asian fine dining from the comfort of your own home!