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Salt-Koji Marinated Salmon Salad Recipe | Gut-Healthy Japanese Cooking

  • Writer: Hitomi
    Hitomi
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read

A gut-health boosting meal featuring omega-3 rich salmon + Japanese fermentation


Steamed pork belly with onions in a bamboo steamer, set beside a bowl of mixed grains on a wooden table. Text overlays describe the dish.

CONTENTS



ABOUT THIS RECIPE |

This Japanese-style salmon salad is marinated in salt-koji, a fermented seasoning that enhances flavor while supporting better digestion. With fresh vegetables, quinoa, and a vibrant dressing — it’s a delicious, satisfying meal that nourishes your microbiome and your mood!


Perfect for lunch prep or an easy weeknight dinner.



RECIPE OVERVIEW |

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)

  • Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

  • Total Time: ~30 minutes + marinating

  • Servings: 1–2 servings

  • Equipment Needed: Oven, baking tray

  • Difficulty Level: Easy

  • Suitable For: Gluten-free, dairy-free option



NUTRITION & GUT HEALTH BENEFITS |

  • Fermented salt-koji brings probiotics & digestion-supporting enzymes

  • Salmon delivers anti-inflammatory omega-3s + protein for repair

  • Quinoa & veggies provide prebiotic fiber that feeds good bacteria

  • A perfect cho-katsu bowl: anti-inflammatory + microbiome-friendly



INGREDIENTS (2 Servings) |

Salad

  • Fresh salmon fillet

  • 2 tsp salt-koji (per fillet)

  • Salad mix

  • 1/2 cup cooked quinoa

  • 1/4 cucumber, sliced

  • 1/4 avocado, diced

  • 1/4 cup tomatoes, diced

  • 4–5 Muscat grapes

  • A few Kalamata olives

  • Lemon wedge


Dressing

  • 1 tsp salt-koji

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1/8 cup balsamic vinegar

  • 1 dried fig, finely chopped

  • Dash of black pepper


INSTRUCTIONS |

  1. Rub salt-koji onto both sides of the salmon. Cover and refrigerate 12–24 hours.

  2. Roast salmon at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes.

  3. Assemble salad in a bowl with quinoa and veggies.

  4. Top with roasted salmon, squeeze fresh lemon, and drizzle dressing.

  5. Serve warm & enjoy the fresh umami boost!




FINAL THOUGHTS |

Salt-koji brings flavor and function to your meals — and this recipe is the perfect example! It tenderizes the salmon, enhances umami, and supports gentle digestion thanks to enzyme activity. Once you try making salmon this way, you’ll wonder how you ever cooked it without koji. 💛


Enjoy a gut-nourishing dish that feels as good as it tastes!

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