Miso Salmon Skewers

Savory and sweet, Miso Salmon Skewers are a delightful dish that combines tender salmon with vibrant zucchini and scallions. Perfect for grilling, these skewers make an excellent choice for casual weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Their rich flavor profile and quick preparation time set them apart, making them a favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these skewers ready for the grill in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of miso, mirin, and sesame oil creates a savory-sweet marinade that elevates the salmon to new heights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to fit your taste preferences.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, these skewers are both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Season: Whether it’s summer barbecues or cozy winter dinners, these skewers shine year-round.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure your Miso Salmon Skewers turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Metal skewers
• Grill or broiler
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor or blender: This tool ensures your marinade is smooth and well-combined for maximum flavor.
• Metal skewers: Durable and reusable, metal skewers make grilling easier and allow you to cook multiple pieces at once.
• Grill or broiler: Using either method provides high heat necessary to create that perfect char on your salmon.

Ingredients

Savory-sweet miso salmon skewers with zucchini and scallions—perfect for grilling and easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:
– 3 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons mirin
– 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce (use tamari, coconut aminos or liquid aminos for gluten-free)
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic (roughly chopped)
– 2 teaspoons roughly chopped ginger
– 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
– 1 pound salmon (skinless, peeled and cut into 1 ½-inch cubes)
– 1 small zucchini (halved lengthwise then cut into ¾-inch thick half moons)
– 4 green onions (white and light green parts cut into 1-inch pieces)
– nonstick cooking spray
– lemon wedges (for serving)
– scallions (sliced optional for garnish)

How to Make Miso Salmon Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Add the miso, mirin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to a small food processor or blender. Blend until completely smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Ingredients

Transfer ¼ cup of the marinade to a mixing bowl. Add the salmon, zucchini, and green onions. Stir to combine. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to an hour. Reserve the remaining marinade.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the pieces of salmon, zucchini, and green onion onto four metal skewers. Spray the kabobs with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

When ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates so they don’t stick. Grill the kebabs for a few minutes per side until the salmon easily releases from the grill grates. To turn the kabobs, use a metal spatula to loosen them from the grill before rotating. Baste with the reserved marinade while cooking. Remove from the grill once fully cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes.

No Grill? No Problem!

If you prefer not to grill, you can broil on high about five inches from the heating element for approximately three minutes on each side until cooked through.

How to Serve Miso Salmon Skewers

Miso salmon skewers are not only delicious but also versatile, making them a great addition to your dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the savory skewers.
• Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots tossed in sesame dressing enhances the umami flavors of the salmon.

Complement with Rice Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice pairs perfectly with miso salmon skewers, soaking up the marinade.
• Fried Rice: Stir-fried rice with vegetables adds a hearty touch that complements the skewers well.

Add Some Grilled Veggies

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the miso glaze.
• Corn on the Cob: Charred corn on the cob brushed with butter creates a sweet balance alongside your skewers.

How to Perfect Miso Salmon Skewers

Perfecting miso salmon skewers is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Bold Marinade: Ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes; this allows flavors to penetrate deeply into the salmon.
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh scallions and zucchini for better texture and flavor in every bite.
• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat for even cooking and beautiful grill marks.
• Oil the Grates: Applying oil to grill grates prevents sticking and helps achieve perfect char on your skewers.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked salmon can become dry. Aim for 8-10 minutes of grilling.
• Baste Often: Basting with leftover marinade during cooking keeps the skewers moist and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for Miso Salmon Skewers

When it comes to serving miso salmon skewers, choosing the right side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies adds protein and fiber while pairing nicely with the salmon’s flavors.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that balances the seasoning of the skewers.
3. Sautéed Bok Choy: Quick sautéed bok choy in garlic offers a vibrant green side that complements Asian dishes wonderfully.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory miso flavors.
5. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt serves as a healthy snack or side dish packed with protein.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled vegetables add a sharp bite that refreshes the palate between bites of rich salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Miso Salmon Skewers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Over-marinating the salmon: Leaving the salmon in the marinade for too long can make it overly salty. Aim for 30 minutes to one hour for the best flavor without overpowering the fish.
• Skipping the seasoning on the grill: Not oiling your grill grates can lead to sticking. Always preheat your grill and apply oil to ensure an easy cooking experience.
• Using unevenly cut ingredients: If your salmon or vegetables are cut into different sizes, they will cook at different rates. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Use a fork to check if the salmon flakes easily; this is the best indicator that it’s fully cooked.
• Ignoring the reserved marinade: Discarding all of your marinade before grilling can mean missing out on flavor. Reserve some marinade to baste during cooking for extra taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last 2-3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Miso Salmon Skewers

• Place skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Miso Salmon Skewers

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm skewers for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of salmon is best for Miso Salmon Skewers?

Wild-caught salmon is often preferred due to its flavor and texture, but farmed salmon works well too.

Can I use other vegetables with Miso Salmon Skewers?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are great alternatives that complement salmon well.

How do I know when my Miso Salmon Skewers are done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make Miso Salmon Skewers ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the ingredients a few hours beforehand or assemble the skewers and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Miso Salmon Skewers are not just tasty; they offer great versatility for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, these skewers fit perfectly into any plan. Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonal vegetables or adjust the marinade ingredients according to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting!

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Miso Salmon Skewers

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Miso Salmon Skewers offer a delectable combination of savory and sweet flavors, making them an ideal choice for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. These skewers feature tender, marinated salmon paired with vibrant zucchini and scallions, all grilled to perfection for a delightful char. The rich miso-based marinade infuses the salmon with a unique umami flavor while also being quick and easy to prepare. In just 20 minutes, you can have these skewers ready for grilling, ensuring they remain a favorite at your dinner table year-round.

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Ingredients

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• 3 tablespoons white miso paste
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
• 2 teaspoons roughly chopped ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 1 pound salmon, skinless, peeled and cut into 1 ½-inch cubes
• 1 small zucchini, halved lengthwise then cut into ¾-inch thick half moons
• 4 green onions, white and light green parts cut into 1-inch pieces
• nonstick cooking spray
• lemon wedges for serving
• scallions sliced, optional for garnish

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Instructions

1. Blend together the miso paste, mirin, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until smooth.
2. Reserve some marinade and combine the rest with salmon cubes, zucchini, and green onions in a bowl. Marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Thread the marinated ingredients onto metal skewers.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 8-10 minutes or until salmon is flaky.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg