Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde Recipe

If you’ve been craving a dish that feels both indulgent and vibrant, then you’re in for a real treat with this Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde. The rich, umami-packed miso butter tenderly coats the flaky salmon, basting it in buttery goodness while baking to perfection. Meanwhile, the salsa verde bursts with freshness, heat, and zest thanks to the sizzled scallions, garlic, and a lively splash of citrus. This recipe is an extraordinary dance of savory and bright flavors that will have you hooked from the very first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of the ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in creating the stunning balance of flavors and textures in this dish. From the creamy miso butter that infuses the salmon with deep umami, to the sizzling scallions that give the salsa verde its irresistible aroma, every component shines.

• Salmon filets (2, about 1-1.5 lbs): Choose fresh, skin-on salmon for crispy skin and moist flesh.
• White miso paste (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle, sweet-fermented flavor crucial for that umami kick.
• Butter (2 tbsp, room temp): Ensures creamy, luscious coverage, melding beautifully with the miso.
• Black pepper: A dash for seasoning that enhances, but doesn’t overpower the delicate fish.
• Scallions (2 large, finely chopped): The star of the salsa verde, providing a sharp, fragrant freshness.
• Shallot (1, sliced): Adds a hint of sweetness to balance the punch of garlic and chile.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Brings depth and aromatic warmth to the salsa.
• Aleppo or crushed red pepper (½ tsp): Offers gentle heat to excite your taste buds without overwhelming.
• Olive oil (¼ cup): Heated to sizzle the scallions and infuse them with flavor while softening the sharpness.
• Cilantro (2 tbsp, roughly chopped): A refreshing herbal note that livens up the salsa.
• Red wine vinegar (1 tbsp): Provides acidity that brightens the salsa and cuts through the butteriness.
• Lemon juice (from ½ lemon): Adds a final zesty sparkle to lift the whole dish.

How to Make Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde

Step 1: Prepare the Miso Butter and Bake the Salmon

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a perfectly cooked salmon. In a small bowl, mash together the white miso paste and softened butter until fully combined—this mixture is your flavor-packed coating. Place your salmon filets skin-side down on a baking sheet and generously spread the miso butter on top. A sprinkle of black pepper follows for just a hint of spice. Pop the salmon into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the filet flakes easily with a fork. You’ll be greeted with a gorgeous, golden-topped salmon that’s rich but never heavy.

Step 2: Make the Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde

While the salmon bakes, turn to your salsa verde. Toss finely chopped scallions, sliced shallot, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper into a mixing bowl. Heat the olive oil just until it’s hot but not smoking, then pour it over the scallion mixture. The sizzle and gentle cooking underway will soften pungent edges and coax out layers of flavor, making the salsa irresistible. Let this sit for about 10 minutes, then stir in fresh cilantro, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. The result is a vibrant, aromatic salsa that’s bright and lively with a satisfying kick.

Step 3: Plate and Serve

Once your salmon is perfectly baked and flaky, it’s time to bring it all together. Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy rice or crisp greens and lavish it with generous spoonfuls of the sizzled scallion salsa verde. The interplay of warm, buttery salmon with the chilled, lively salsa creates a dish truly worthy of any dinner table.

How to Serve Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation and add texture with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or thinly sliced radishes. A few extra cilantro leaves scattered on top can elevate the visual appeal while adding fresh herbal notes that complement the salsa perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that soak up its wonderful flavors. Steamed jasmine rice or garlic butter sautéed green beans are classic accompaniments. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside a crisp cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a touch of sesame oil.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde a dinner party highlight by serving it in a bowl layered with grains and seasonal vegetables for a vibrant grain bowl. Alternatively, flake the salmon and toss with the salsa for a flavorful fish taco filling wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salmon and salsa verde should be refrigerated in separate airtight containers to maintain their texture and flavor. They will keep well for up to two days, making for an easy next-day meal.

Freezing

The salmon tastes best fresh, but you can freeze the cooked filets if necessary. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Use within one month for the best quality. It’s best not to freeze the salsa verde, as the fresh herbs and oil won’t keep their vibrant flavor and texture after thawing.

Reheating

Gently reheat the salmon in a low oven (around 275 degrees Fahrenheit) or in a skillet on low heat to prevent drying out. Add fresh salsa verde after reheating to preserve its bright flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Absolutely! While salmon is ideal for its rich texture and flavor, firm fish like cod or halibut can also work well with the miso butter and salsa verde.

Is white miso paste necessary, or can I substitute it?

White miso paste gives a milder, sweeter umami flavor that perfectly complements the salmon. If you can’t find it, yellow miso is a good substitute, but avoid stronger varieties like red miso, as they might overpower the dish.

How spicy is the salsa verde?

The salsa has a gentle warmth from the Aleppo or crushed red pepper, making it lively but not overwhelming. You can adjust the amount of pepper to suit your spice preference.

Can I make the salsa verde ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salsa verde a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld. Just add the fresh herbs and lemon juice right before serving to keep it vibrant.

What can I serve instead of rice?

If you want to skip the rice, try serving the salmon over roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a bed of sautéed greens. All offer great textural contrast and soak up the salsa beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Cooking Miso Butter Salmon with Sizzled Scallion Salsa Verde is like inviting a little bit of magic into your kitchen. With its effortless recipe and unforgettable flavors, it’s sure to become one of your personal favorite go-tos when you’re craving something both comforting and fresh. Give it a try—you might just find this dish turning into your new signature meal.

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