There’s something magical about perfectly cooked salmon. that moment when your fork glides through. the tender flesh revealing its rosy interior while. the crispy exterior provides a delightful textural contrast. Today, I’m sharing two of my most cherished salmon recipes. that never fail to impress. whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or elevating your weeknight dinner.
Honey-Miso Glazed Salmon
This preparation marries Japanese culinary traditions with modern techniques. creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on, preferably center-cut
- 3 tablespoons white miso paste (shiro miso)
- 2 tablespoons local honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon premium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil (grapeseed or avocado)
Fresh scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by removing salmon from the refrigerator 15 minutes before cooking. Pat fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. this crucial step ensures a beautiful golden crust.
- While salmon tempers, whisk together. miso paste, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and soy sauce until. the mixture reaches a silky consistency. The glaze should coat the back of a spoon while maintaining a spreadable texture.
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. until it shimmers and moves freely across the pan.
- Season salmon with a light sprinkle of salt (remember, miso is naturally salty). Brush generously with glaze on all sides except the skin.
- Place salmon skin-side up in the hot pan. Listen for a gentle sizzle – too loud means your pan is too hot, too quiet means it needs more heat. Cook for 4-5 minutes until a golden crust develops.
- Gently flip using a fish spatula. The skin should turn delightfully crispy as it cooks for another 3-4 minutes.
Mediterranean Herb-Crusted Salmon
This preparation celebrates the bright. fresh flavors of the Mediterranean while allowing. the salmon's natural richness to shine through.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (equal parts parsley, dill, basil)
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- Zest of 1 organic lemon
- 1/2 cup Japanese panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- On a cutting board, finely chop herbs and garlic together until. they release their aromatic oils. The herbs should be fine enough to incorporate. easily into the crust but not so fine that they lose their texture.
- In a bowl, combine herbs with panko, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. The mixture should hold together. when pressed but still maintain a light, crumbly texture.
- Season salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. then brush with remaining olive oil. Press herb mixture onto the top of each fillet. creating an even layer that completely covers the surface.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown while. the salmon remains moist beneath.