If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful, and healthy dinner option, Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli is the perfect dish! The rich, umami flavor of the miso glaze beautifully complements the tender, flaky salmon, while the steamed broccoli adds a nutritious, light, and crispy element to the plate. This dish is packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, making it a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this meal will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
1. Why You’ll Love Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
Here’s why this dish is a winner:
- Packed with Flavor: The miso glaze is rich, savory, and slightly sweet, infusing the salmon with incredible flavor.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, while broccoli adds fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
- Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Gluten-Free and Low-Carb: Perfect for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet.
- Light Yet Filling: This meal is satisfying without being heavy, offering a perfect balance of protein and vegetables.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
This simple recipe uses a few key ingredients to create a flavorful, well-balanced dish:
For the Miso Glazed Salmon:
- Salmon Fillets: 4 pieces (6 oz each)
- Miso Paste: 2 tablespoons (white miso paste works best, but you can use red miso for a stronger flavor)
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (low-sodium if preferred)
- Honey: 1 tablespoon (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- Rice Vinegar: 1 teaspoon (for acidity)
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (adds depth of flavor)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly grated (optional, for added spice)
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped Green Onions: For garnish (optional)
For the Steamed Broccoli:
- Broccoli: 1 large head, cut into florets (or 4 cups of florets)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (optional, for drizzling after steaming)
- Lemon: 1/2, for squeezing over the broccoli
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
1. Prepare the Miso Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth. The mixture should be thick but pourable.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down.
- Brush the miso glaze generously over each fillet, making sure to coat the salmon evenly.
3. Bake the Salmon:
- Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
4. Steam the Broccoli:
- While the salmon is baking, bring a pot of water to a boil and set a steamer basket over the pot. Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe bowl with a lid.
- Add the broccoli florets to the steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl. Steam for 5–7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant and slightly crisp.
- If using a steamer basket, check the water level occasionally and add more water if needed.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Once the salmon is done, remove it from the oven. Drizzle any remaining miso glaze over the fillets.
- Serve each salmon fillet with a side of steamed broccoli. Drizzle a little olive oil over the broccoli and squeeze fresh lemon juice on top to enhance the flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the salmon for extra flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful, healthy meal!
4. Tips for the Best Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
- Choose Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon will yield the best texture and flavor, but frozen salmon works well too. Just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooking can result in dry fish. Bake it until it’s just cooked through and flakes easily.
- Adjust the Glaze: If you like your glaze sweeter, add more honey. For more umami, add an extra tablespoon of miso paste or a splash of soy sauce.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the steamed broccoli, such as carrots or green beans, for a more colorful, well-rounded meal.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some sriracha to the miso glaze.
5. Serving Ideas for Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli
This dish is delicious on its own, but here are some ideas to complement it:
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: Serve the salmon and broccoli with a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the salmon with cauliflower rice for extra veggies without the carbs.
- Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the salmon.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with the umami flavor of the salmon, adding a hearty, healthy element to the meal.
6. Nutritional Benefits
Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3s, which are beneficial for heart health and inflammation reduction.
- Rich in Protein: Both salmon and broccoli provide a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Salmon is rich in vitamin D and B vitamins, while broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.
- Low in Carbs: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for keto, low-carb, or paleo diets.
FAQs
- Can I use another type of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can use other types of fish like cod, halibut, or trout, though the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets. - Can I make the miso glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the miso glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a stir before using. - How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check the thickest part of the fish — it should be opaque and tender. - Can I grill the salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, grilling salmon is a great option! Preheat the grill, brush the salmon with the miso glaze, and grill each side for about 3–4 minutes until cooked through. - Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well too. Just steam it until tender. Keep in mind that frozen broccoli may release more water during cooking. - Can I use a different vegetable instead of broccoli?
Absolutely! You can substitute with asparagus, green beans, or spinach for a different flavor and texture. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the salmon is best served fresh, you can prepare the miso glaze and steam the broccoli ahead of time. Just reheat the broccoli and quickly bake the salmon when you’re ready to serve. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. - Can I make the miso glaze spicier?
Yes! Add a little sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a spicy kick. - Can I use a different type of miso paste?
Yes, you can use red miso for a richer flavor or yellow miso for a milder taste. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
Miso Glazed Salmon with Steamed Broccoli is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a balanced dinner. With its rich umami flavor and fresh, vibrant vegetables, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal offers the perfect combination of taste and nutrition!