There’s something incredibly satisfying about cooking a restaurant-quality meal at home without turning your kitchen into a sauna. That’s why this air fryer miso-glazed salmon has become one of my weeknight go-to recipes. It’s fast, flavorful, and feels a little fancy—even though it’s ridiculously simple. The air fryer locks in the salmon’s natural juices while giving it that slightly crisp edge, and the miso glaze? It’s pure umami magic.
I first tried a version of this dish at a Japanese bistro and knew I had to recreate it at home. After a bit of tinkering, I found the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy to complement the richness of the salmon. Whether you’re new to cooking fish or just looking for an effortless way to elevate your dinner routine, this is one recipe you’ll want to bookmark.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Salmon fillets: Fresh, skin-on salmon works best here. I recommend center-cut fillets, about 6 oz each, for even cooking. The skin helps protect the fish from drying out and adds a nice crispness when cooked in the air fryer.
White miso paste: This is the base of our glaze. White miso is milder and slightly sweet, making it the perfect complement to the richness of the salmon. You’ll find it in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores or Asian markets.
Soy sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness of the glaze. Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt content.
Rice vinegar: Just a touch of rice vinegar brings brightness and acidity, cutting through the fat of the salmon beautifully.
Honey: For a hint of sweetness and a glossy finish, honey ties everything together. You can substitute maple syrup if you prefer a different kind of sweetness.
Sesame oil: A few drops of toasted sesame oil add a rich, nutty aroma that really elevates the miso glaze.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a sharp punch and blends beautifully into the glaze for added flavor complexity.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger brings a subtle spice and warmth that works harmoniously with the miso and honey.
Cooking spray or oil: A light spritz in the air fryer basket ensures the salmon doesn’t stick and helps the skin crisp up perfectly.
Ingredients List
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on)
- 2 tablespoons white miso paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- Cooking spray or oil (for the air fryer basket)
How to Make Air Fryer Miso-Glazed Salmon
Step 1: Make the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and well combined. This is your delicious miso glaze—don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to taste it right off the spoon!
Step 2: Marinate the salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Place them skin-side down in a shallow dish or on a plate and brush the miso glaze generously over the top and sides. Let them marinate for at least 15–20 minutes at room temperature. If you have more time, you can refrigerate them for up to an hour to deepen the flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes. This ensures the salmon cooks evenly and the skin gets nicely crisp.
Step 4: Cook the salmon
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil. Place the salmon fillets in the basket, skin-side down, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for 7–9 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once done, carefully remove the salmon from the air fryer. Serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice, with some sautéed greens or pickled veggies on the side. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped scallions is a lovely finishing touch.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcook: Air fryers vary, so check the salmon at the 7-minute mark. The fish should flake easily but still look moist in the center.
- Use skin-on salmon: The skin helps hold the fish together and crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.
- Make extra glaze: This miso glaze is versatile—try it on roasted veggies, tofu, or chicken.
- Line the basket if needed: If you’re worried about sticking, place parchment paper made for air fryers under the fillets.
- Balance flavors: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a touch more honey. Like it saltier? Add a splash more soy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before applying the glaze and cooking.
What can I use instead of white miso?
You can try yellow miso, which is slightly stronger but still mild. Avoid red miso as it may overpower the dish.
How do I know when salmon is cooked through?
The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 125–130°F (for medium) and flake easily with a fork.
Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave.