Air Fryer Miso Glazed Salmon With Brussels Sprouts

The first time I tasted salmon prepared with a miso glaze, I was at a tiny sushi bar tucked away in Kyoto. The chef, a wizened man with hands that moved with the grace of a seasoned calligrapher, presented me with a glistening piece of fish. The umami-rich miso, subtly sweet and deeply savory, had transformed the salmon into something truly sublime. Back home, I experimented tirelessly to recreate that magic, and this air fryer version, with its perfectly crisp Brussels sprouts, is as close as I’ve gotten. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that brings a touch of Japanese elegance to my own kitchen, and I hope it does the same for yours.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 11-15 minutes
• Total Time: 16-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free (check miso label)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon white miso
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon minced ginger
• 1 lb raw salmon (4 salmon steaks or one large piece)
• 4 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Equipment Needed

• Air Fryer
• Small Bowl
• Whisk
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the white miso, honey, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk well until the glaze is smooth and homogenous. Set aside.
2. Preheat the air fryer: Set the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Spray the inner basket of the air fryer with nonstick cooking spray. This will help prevent the salmon and Brussels sprouts from sticking.
3. First salmon cook: Place the raw salmon in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon.
4. Glaze and add sprouts: Pause the air fryer. Carefully spread the prepared miso glaze evenly over the salmon. Add the trimmed and quartered Brussels sprouts to the basket, spreading them around the salmon in a single layer. Season the Brussels sprouts with kosher salt.
5. Final cook: Continue to cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the Brussels sprouts are slightly tender and lightly browned. The internal temperature of the salmon should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Serve immediately: Remove the salmon and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Ensure the salmon and Brussels sprouts are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steaming instead of browning. If needed, cook in batches.
• Check for doneness: The cooking time for salmon can vary based on its thickness. Use a fork to gently flake the salmon to check for doneness. It should be opaque and moist throughout. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
• Miso variations: While white miso is recommended for its mild sweetness, you can experiment with other types of miso, such as red miso, for a bolder, saltier flavor. Just adjust the amount of honey accordingly.
• Ginger and garlic: Freshly minced garlic and ginger offer the best flavor, but you can substitute with garlic powder and ground ginger if needed. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of each.
• Crispier Brussels sprouts: For extra crispy Brussels sprouts, toss them with a teaspoon of olive oil before adding them to the air fryer.
• Broiling for extra color: If you want even more color on the salmon and Brussels sprouts, you can broil them in the air fryer for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Air Fryer Miso Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts immediately after cooking for the best flavor and texture. It pairs well with a side of steamed rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. For a more complete meal, consider adding a side of edamame or a light seaweed salad.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes, or until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook the salmon, as it can become dry. Microwaving is also an option, but may affect the texture. Due to the nature of cooked salmon and sprouts, freezing is not recommended.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	230 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	7 g	N/A
Saturated Fat	2 g	N/A
Total Carbohydrate	14 g	N/A
Sugars	7 g	N/A
Protein	28 g	N/A
Sodium	305 mg	N/A
Cholesterol	51 mg	N/A
Fiber	4 g	N/A

*Percentage Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: Replace the salmon with firm tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in the miso glaze for at least 30 minutes before air frying.
• Vegetables: Substitute Brussels sprouts with other vegetables like broccoli florets, asparagus, or green beans. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Glaze variations: Experiment with different flavors in the glaze. Add a dash of sesame oil for a nutty flavor, a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Salmon type: While this recipe works well with Atlantic salmon, you can use other types of salmon, such as Coho or Sockeye. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the fillet.
• Maple syrup: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Soy sauce alternative: For a soy-free alternative to miso, try using coconut aminos in the glaze.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Q: How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

A: The salmon is cooked through when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the miso glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts?

A: Yes, you can use pre-shredded Brussels sprouts, but keep a close watch as they will cook quicker. You may want to add them to the air fryer a few minutes after the salmon.

Q: My Brussels sprouts are burning, but the salmon isn’t cooked yet. What should I do?

A: If the Brussels sprouts are browning too quickly, you can remove them from the air fryer and set them aside. Continue cooking the salmon until it’s cooked through, then add the Brussels sprouts back in for the last minute or two to warm them up.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Miso Glazed Salmon with Brussels Sprouts is more than just a quick and easy weeknight meal; it’s a delightful journey of flavors and textures. The savory miso glaze perfectly complements the richness of the salmon, while the crisp Brussels sprouts add a satisfying crunch. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the harmonious blend of flavors for yourself. Feel free to experiment with variations and substitutions to create your own unique version. And please, share your feedback – I’m always eager to hear how my recipes turn out in your kitchens! Consider pairing it with a chilled glass of sake or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for an elevated dining experience. Happy cooking!