Calling all seafood lovers and noodle enthusiasts! Prepare to be amazed by a recipe that brings together the richness of salmon and the earthy allure of soba noodles. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles recipe that will leave you craving more with every bite.
Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles
Equipment
- oven
- 1 large pot
- 1 baking dish
- aluminum foil
- 1 small saucepan
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets, skin removed
- 1 pound soba noodles (or thin whole wheat spaghetti)
- ½ pound green beans (sliced in half lengthwise)
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, thinly sliced
- ½ cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari (plus 3 additional tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons rice wine (or sherry, or white wine)
- 3 scallions, chopped
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees, and bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the green beans to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the green beans to a bowl of ice water. Let sit in ice water for 30 - 60 seconds, then drain and set aside. Add the noodles to the boiling pot and cook according to the package directions.
- While the noodles are cooking, combine 3 tablespoons soy sauce, garlic, grated ginger, and 1 tablespoon of the wine in a baking dish. Place the salmon in the baking dish, and turn the fillets to coat. Scatter the sliced ginger and the scallions over top of the salmon. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes (or until salmon is opaque and flakes easily).
- While the salmon cooks, combine the rice vinegar, lemon juice, remaining soy sauce, and remaining wine in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about 3 minutes (until the liquid reduces by about half).
- Remove the pot from the heat and cover with a lid to keep warm. Divide the drained noodles and green beans between 4 serving plates; Top each serving with a salmon fillet and drizzle the glaze over the top of each plate.
Video
Notes
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results for your Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles, I’ve gathered some valuable cooking tips and insights to guide you through the process. From enhancing the flavors to avoiding common mistakes, these tips will take your dish to the next level.
- Marinating Magic: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the salmon in the soy glaze for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the fish to absorb the delicious marinade and infuse it with every bite.
- Perfectly Pan-Seared: Achieving a beautifully caramelized crust on your salmon is all about proper pan-searing. Preheat your pan over medium-high heat, add a touch of oil, and place the salmon skin-side down. Cook for about 4 minutes until the skin is crispy, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is cooked through but still tender.
- Nailing the Noodle Texture: To prevent your soba noodles from clumping together, rinse them under cold water after boiling to remove excess starch. For serving, toss them in a little sesame oil to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Balancing the Sauce: The soy glaze is the star of this dish, but be mindful not to overpower the delicate flavors of the salmon and soba noodles. Taste the glaze before adding it to the salmon and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Remember, it’s always easier to add more sauce later if desired.
- Rest for Perfection: After cooking the salmon, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender fish.
Serving Your Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles
Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles, let’s explore some exciting serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience. From complementary sides and garnishes to creative plating ideas, these suggestions will make your dish truly memorable.
- Side Sensations: Serve your salmon and soba noodles with a side of steamed bok choy, sautéed Asian greens, or roasted sesame asparagus. These vibrant and nutritious sides will add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
- Garnish with Flair: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or chopped cilantro over your dish for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. These simple garnishes will bring a burst of freshness and a delightful contrast to the dish.
- Creative Plating: Consider serving your Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles on a bed of baby spinach or nestled in a vibrant cucumber ribbon salad. You can also serve it in individual bowls, topped with a sprinkle of nori flakes for a sophisticated presentation.
- Sauce on the Side: If you have guests with different preferences, serve the soy glaze on the side. This allows them to control the amount of sauce they desire, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are satisfied.
- Beverage Pairings: Complement the flavors of your dish with a refreshing beverage. Consider serving a chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light and fruity Pinot Noir, or even a ginger-infused iced green tea. These options will perfectly harmonize with the delicate soy-glazed salmon.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Thaw the frozen salmon fillets overnight in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking them as per the recipe instructions. Ensure the salmon is completely thawed and patted dry before marinating for the best results.
Can I substitute soba noodles with another type of noodle?
While soba noodles enhance the dish’s flavor profile, you can substitute them with udon noodles or even thin rice noodles if desired. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the chosen noodles.
How long can I store leftovers of Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon and soba noodles in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.
Can I grill the salmon instead of pan-searing it?
Absolutely! Grilling the salmon adds a smoky flavor and creates beautiful grill marks. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, lightly oil the grates, and grill the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles?
Certainly! You can substitute the salmon with firm tofu or tempeh slices. Marinate them in the soy glaze for at least 30 minutes, then pan-sear or grill them until golden and heated through. Serve with soba noodles and enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.
Experience the mouthwatering symphony of flavors in Light Soy-Glazed Salmon with Soba Noodles. From marinating techniques to tempting garnishes, we’ve got you covered. Share this recipe with your foodie friends and stay updated by subscribing to our blog for more culinary inspirations!