Mary Berry Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a delicious, quick, and healthy dinner idea, you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s miso salmon with aromatic spinach!

This recipe combines the rich umami of miso with the delicate flavor of perfectly cooked salmon, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. The aromatic spinach adds a beautiful, earthy depth that perfectly complements the salmon, making it a meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly tasty. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress your taste buds and make you feel like a culinary pro in no time!

Mary Berry Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a deliciously flavorful dish that combines the rich, umami-packed taste of miso with the delicate, tender texture of salmon, all while being complemented by fragrant spinach. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to make this exquisite dish:

1. Salmon Fillets – The star of this dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality salmon fillets, preferably skin-on to retain moisture and flavor during cooking. The richness of the salmon complements the salty miso marinade beautifully.

2. Miso Paste – Miso paste is essential for giving the dish its signature depth of flavor. Use white or yellow miso paste for a milder taste or red miso paste if you prefer a more robust, salty flavor.

3. Soy Sauce – Soy sauce enhances the umami qualities of the dish, balancing the flavors of the miso paste and adding an extra layer of savory richness.

4. Ginger – Fresh ginger gives a subtle warmth and brightness to the dish, perfectly complementing the saltiness of the miso and soy sauce.

5. Garlic – Minced garlic is a key ingredient for imparting an aromatic, slightly spicy base note that contrasts with the smoothness of the salmon and spinach.

6. Honey or Maple Syrup – A touch of sweetness from honey or maple syrup helps balance the saltiness of the soy and miso paste, providing harmony to the dish.

7. Sesame Oil – This oil adds a delicate nuttiness and aromatic depth to the dish, especially when sautéing the spinach and other ingredients.

8. Spinach – Fresh spinach is the bed for the salmon and adds a vibrant, earthy contrast to the richness of the fish. It wilts down beautifully, soaking up the flavors of the garlic, ginger, and miso sauce.

9. Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top as a garnish, providing a crunchy texture and an extra layer of flavor to the finished dish.

10. Lime or Lemon – A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice brightens up the dish and provides a zesty contrast to the savory elements.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this miso salmon dish, a few essential pieces of equipment will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything turns out perfectly:

1. Baking Tray – A sturdy, non-stick baking tray is ideal for roasting the salmon fillets. This allows the fish to cook evenly while keeping it moist.

2. Mixing Bowl – A medium mixing bowl will be needed to combine the miso paste, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil into the marinade for the salmon. The bowl should be large enough to coat the salmon fillets completely.

3. Whisk or Spoon – A small whisk or spoon will help you mix the marinade ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring they are well blended before coating the fish.

4. Sauté Pan or Wok – A large sauté pan or wok is necessary for cooking the spinach and aromatics. The high sides of a wok allow for easy stirring and help prevent any splattering as the garlic and ginger are sautéed.

5. Tongs or Fish Spatula – Tongs or a fish spatula will come in handy when flipping or removing the salmon fillets from the baking tray, as they are delicate and can break apart easily.

6. Sharp Knife – A sharp knife is essential for finely chopping the garlic, ginger, and any garnishes, as well as slicing the lime or lemon for finishing touches.

7. Measuring Spoons and Cups – Accurate measurements of the ingredients are important for ensuring the balance of flavors. Having a set of measuring spoons and cups on hand will make the process easier.

8. Grater or Microplane – If you choose to grate the ginger instead of mincing it, a grater or microplane will be necessary to achieve the fine texture required.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach

Making Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is straightforward but requires attention to detail to ensure all the ingredients are properly combined for maximum flavor. Here’s how to create this dish step-by-step:

1. Prepare the Miso Marinade – In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the miso paste, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Mix everything until it forms a smooth paste. This marinade is key to infusing the salmon with a deep, savory flavor. Taste it and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as necessary by adding a little more honey or soy sauce.

2. Marinate the Salmon – Place the salmon fillets in the mixing bowl and coat them evenly with the miso marinade. Make sure the fillets are thoroughly covered on both sides. Let the salmon marinate for at least 20 minutes, though marinating it for 1 hour will enhance the flavors further.

3. Preheat the Oven – While the salmon is marinating, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). A moderate heat will cook the fish gently and evenly without drying it out.

4. Bake the Salmon – Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down. Roast the salmon in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. The fish should flake easily with a fork but still remain moist inside.

5. Cook the Aromatic Spinach – While the salmon is cooking, heat a large sauté pan or wok over medium heat. Add a dash of sesame oil, followed by the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute or two until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic. Add the fresh spinach and sauté until wilted, stirring occasionally. The spinach will quickly shrink down, absorbing the flavors of the garlic and ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the Dish – Once the salmon is cooked and the spinach is aromatic and tender, arrange a generous portion of spinach on each plate. Carefully place the roasted salmon fillet on top of the spinach. Optionally, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for an extra pop of freshness.

Expert Tips

1. Choose the Right Salmon – For the best flavor and texture, choose wild-caught salmon if available. It’s leaner and has a more pronounced taste than farmed salmon, making it a perfect match for the strong flavors of the miso marinade.

2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon – Keep an eye on the salmon while it’s in the oven. Overcooking it will cause it to dry out. Salmon is best cooked until it’s just opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

3. Use Fresh Spinach – Fresh spinach works best for this dish, as it wilts beautifully and maintains its bright color. Avoid frozen spinach, which can release excess moisture and become too soggy.

4. Balance the Flavors – The key to this dish is finding the right balance of sweet, salty, and umami. Don’t be afraid to adjust the marinade to your personal taste preferences, adding a little more honey if you like sweetness or more soy sauce for saltiness.

5. Add a Protein Boost – If you want to make the dish heartier, consider serving it with a side of brown rice or quinoa. These grains absorb the miso sauce wonderfully and add a satisfying texture.

Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is an incredibly flavorful, well-balanced dish that brings together the richness of salmon with the depth of miso and the freshness of spinach. With the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and umami flavors, this dish is both elegant and simple to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The expert tips provided will ensure that your dish is cooked to perfection every time, while the step-by-step guide takes you through the process with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to sit down for a meal with you.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach

Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a wonderfully flavorful dish that offers a perfect balance of savory umami from the miso and the light, earthy freshness of spinach. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can easily tweak it to suit different tastes or available ingredients. Here are some easy variations you can try to keep things exciting in the kitchen:

1. Different Types of Miso

   Miso comes in various forms, and each imparts a unique depth of flavor to the dish. While the classic recipe might call for white or light miso, you can switch it up with red or even black miso for a more robust, umami-packed taste. Red miso, for example, tends to have a stronger, saltier profile, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy bolder flavors.

2. Adding a Sweet Twist with Honey or Maple Syrup

   For a touch of sweetness to balance the salty miso, consider adding a spoonful of honey, maple syrup, or even brown sugar to the miso glaze. The sweetness can round out the sharp flavors, creating a lovely contrast and enhancing the overall experience of the dish.

3. Spicing Things Up with Chili

   If you enjoy a little heat, you can incorporate chili flakes or fresh red chili slices into the glaze. The spicy kick will pair beautifully with the rich umami of the miso and the tender salmon. A bit of ginger in the marinade will also add some zesty warmth to the dish.

4. Incorporating Other Greens

   While the spinach gives the dish a delicate freshness, you can mix it up by incorporating other greens like kale, Swiss chard, or bok choy. These greens offer a slightly more robust flavor and texture, adding variety to the dish while still complementing the salmon and miso.

5. Substitute Salmon with Another Fish or Tofu

   Though salmon is a popular choice for this recipe, you can switch it up by using other types of fish, like cod or halibut. Alternatively, for a plant-based option, try substituting the fish with tofu. Firm tofu marinated in the same miso glaze will absorb all the flavors beautifully, providing a hearty vegetarian alternative.

6. Grilled or Pan-Seared for a Different Texture

   While baking the salmon is the traditional method, you can achieve a smoky and crispy texture by grilling or pan-searing the fish. This method will create a lovely contrast with the tender spinach and allow you to infuse additional flavors from the grill or pan.

7. Adding a Citrus Twist

   For a burst of freshness, consider squeezing some lemon or lime over the dish before serving. The citrusy acidity will brighten the flavors and add a zesty note that cuts through the richness of the salmon and miso.

By incorporating these variations, you can transform Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach into a dish that feels fresh and exciting every time you make it. Whether you’re experimenting with miso varieties, adding a sweet or spicy twist, or switching up the greens, this recipe is a blank canvas ready for personalization.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a dish that can easily yield leftovers, and if you’ve made too much, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its flavors and texture. Here are some best practices to ensure your leftovers stay fresh and delicious:

1. Cool Down Before Storing

   The first and most important step in storing leftovers is to allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Never store hot food directly in the fridge, as this can lead to condensation inside the container and promote bacterial growth. Allow your salmon and spinach to cool for no more than two hours before refrigerating.

2. Use Airtight Containers

   To preserve the flavors and prevent your leftovers from drying out, store them in airtight containers. This will also keep the dish from absorbing unwanted odors from other foods in your fridge. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work particularly well, as they help retain the moisture and prevent the salmon from becoming too rubbery.

3. Store the Fish and Greens Separately (If Possible)

   If you want to maintain the best texture and flavor, it’s a good idea to store the salmon and spinach separately. This way, the spinach won’t get too soggy or wilted, and the salmon will stay more tender. However, if they’re already combined, no worries – just try to store them together in a single airtight container.

4. Refrigeration

   Leftovers should be stored in the fridge, where they can last for up to 2-3 days. If you think you won’t eat the leftovers within this timeframe, consider freezing them instead. Salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months, but note that freezing may alter the texture slightly, so it’s best to consume it sooner rather than later.

5. Reheating Gently

   When reheating the leftovers, it’s important to be gentle to avoid overcooking the salmon. You can reheat the salmon and spinach in the microwave or on the stove.

   If using the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. On the stove, reheat the salmon on low heat, and add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Be sure to check the dish often to avoid overcooking the salmon.

6. Freezing for Longer Storage

   If you decide to freeze the dish, portion it into smaller servings, as this makes it easier to defrost only what you need. When reheating frozen leftovers, it’s best to let the dish thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat gently.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy the leftovers of this dish for a few days without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What Goes Well With Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach

Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a wonderfully well-balanced dish, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the meal even further. Here are some ideas to complement the rich, umami-packed salmon and the freshness of the spinach:

1. Steamed Rice or Quinoa

   A simple bed of steamed jasmine rice or brown rice is the perfect base for this dish. The subtle nuttiness of brown rice, or the fragrant, fluffy nature of jasmine rice, will absorb the flavors of the miso glaze and make for a satisfying and hearty pairing. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, quinoa is an excellent choice, adding a bit of texture and nuttiness.

2. Roasted Vegetables

   Roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers make a great addition to the meal. The caramelized sweetness of roasted vegetables provides a beautiful contrast to the savory miso and tender salmon. Plus, the roasting process brings out their natural sweetness, which balances the umami flavor of the fish.

3. Pickled Vegetables

   To cut through the richness of the salmon and provide some acidity, serve the dish with pickled vegetables like cucumber, radish, or carrots. These vibrant, tangy pickles will add a refreshing contrast to the miso salmon, enhancing the overall flavor profile and providing a textural variety.

4. Sautéed Mushrooms

   If you’re craving more umami flavor, sautéed mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, would complement the salmon beautifully. Their earthy, meaty texture pairs well with the fish, and they can absorb some of the miso glaze for an added depth of flavor.

5. Asian-Inspired Salad

   A light, crisp Asian-style salad with ingredients like napa cabbage, shredded carrots, and a sesame dressing would provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich miso salmon. Toss in some cilantro, mint, and toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.

6. Crispy Seaweed

   For a crunchy, salty element, consider adding crispy seaweed snacks or nori strips. They’ll add a delightful textural contrast to the soft salmon and spinach, and the saltiness of the seaweed will enhance the umami flavor of the dish.

7. Sake or White Wine

   To complete the meal, pair your dish with a glass of sake, which enhances the umami flavor of the salmon, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Both beverages will complement the rich and savory qualities of the miso salmon while offering a refreshing balance.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a dish that captures the essence of savory, rich flavors balanced by delicate greens. Its versatility in preparation, from tweaking the miso or experimenting with different fish and greens, makes it a perfect canvas for creative customization. The best practices for storing leftovers ensure that you can enjoy this dish well beyond its initial preparation, and pairing it with rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad only enhances the meal.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or as a meal prep option, the simplicity and depth of this dish will satisfy both your culinary cravings and your guests. With its myriad of possible variations and thoughtful accompaniments, Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon with Aromatic Spinach is a recipe that will continue to delight the taste buds and offer endless possibilities for future meals.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach?

The main ingredients for this recipe include salmon fillets, miso paste, soy sauce, honey, garlic, fresh spinach, ginger, and sesame oil. These ingredients combine to create a flavorful and healthy dish.

Can I Substitute The Salmon In Mary Berry’s Recipe With Another Fish?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fatty fish like trout or mackerel. If you prefer a leaner fish, try cod or haddock, though the flavor and texture might differ slightly.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach?

Preparation for this dish takes around 10 minutes, while cooking time is about 15 minutes. Overall, it should take roughly 25 minutes to make this recipe from start to finish.

Is Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Recipe Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free alternative. Make sure all other ingredients are free from gluten as well.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Ahead Of Time?

While the salmon is best served fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time. The miso marinade can be prepared the night before, and the spinach can be washed and ready for sautéing. However, the salmon should be cooked just before serving for optimal texture.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables like carrots or broccoli. You could also serve it with a light Asian-style salad to complement the flavors.

What Is The Purpose Of The Honey In The Miso Marinade?

The honey balances out the salty and umami flavors of the miso paste and soy sauce, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Can I Use Pre-packaged Spinach For Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-packaged spinach, but fresh spinach is preferred for its flavor and texture. If using packaged spinach, make sure to check for any added preservatives or washing instructions.

Is It Necessary To Marinate The Salmon Before Cooking In Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon Recipe?

While marinating the salmon for 15-30 minutes allows the flavors to absorb better, you can skip the marination step and directly apply the miso sauce if you’re short on time. The dish will still be delicious.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Miso Salmon With Aromatic Spinach Spicier?

To add heat, you can incorporate chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies into the miso marinade or sprinkle them over the finished dish. Alternatively, a dash of sriracha sauce can be added to the spinach while cooking.