Asian Salmon with Noodles in XO Sauce
If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious weeknight dinner idea, this Umami-Packed Asian Salmon with Noodles in XO Sauce will not disappoint. Crispy salmon fillets are paired with silky noodles tossed in fragrant garlic oil and finished with a savoury, spicy XO sauce. The result? A dish that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together quickly in your own kitchen.
XO sauce is the star ingredient here. This luxurious Hong Kong–born condiment is made from dried scallops, shrimp, garlic, and chillies, creating a complex, smoky umami flavour. Just a spoonful can instantly elevate salmon and noodles into something bold, warming, and deeply satisfying. If you’ve never cooked with it before, this recipe is the perfect introduction.
What makes this dish extra special is the layering of flavours. First, the garlic oil coats the noodles, adding aroma while keeping them from sticking. Then, a simple XO noodle sauce ties everything together. Half of it is gently absorbed by the noodles, while the rest is drizzled over the crispy salmon, ensuring every bite is rich with taste. Toss in spring onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime for brightness, and you’ll have a complete meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Whether you’re new to XO sauce or already a fan, this recipe is a true keeper. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet refined enough to serve as a special dinner. Once you try this combination of crispy salmon, garlicky noodles, and umami-packed XO flavours, it might just become your new go-to Asian favourite.
Q&As on Asian Salmon with Noodles in XO Sauce
1. What is XO sauce and why is it used in this recipe?
XO sauce is a luxurious condiment that originated in Hong Kong in the 1980s. Despite the name, it doesn’t contain brandy – “XO” refers to “extra old,” a term borrowed from fine cognac to suggest exclusivity and premium quality. The sauce is typically made with dried scallops, dried shrimp, chilli, garlic, shallots, and aromatic spices, all slowly cooked in oil until intensely savoury. It has a unique combination of smoky, spicy, and seafood-rich umami flavours. In this recipe, XO sauce adds incredible depth, tying the crispy salmon and garlicky noodles together. With just a spoonful, it transforms the dish into something truly gourmet, even when made on a busy weeknight.
2. Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute salmon with other proteins depending on your preference. Firm white fishlike cod, halibut, or barramundi are excellent choices and will absorb the XO marinade nicely. If you prefer something lighter, you can even use prawns or shrimp, reducing the cook time since seafood cooks quickly. For non-seafood eaters, chicken breast or thigh fillets also work well and pair beautifully with XO sauce. The key is to choose a protein that can stand up to the bold flavours of the sauce without being overpowered. Remember to adjust cooking times so your chosen protein stays tender and juicy.
3. What kind of noodles are best for this dish?
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to noodles. Dried egg noodles are a classic choice, since they’re firm, cook quickly, and soak up the garlic oil and XO sauce very well. Rice noodles are another light option that works beautifully, especially if you want a gluten-free version. You could also experiment with Japanese ramen noodles for a chewier bite, or thick udon for extra heartiness. Even Italian spaghetti can step in as a substitute if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to use noodles that cook fast and have enough texture to carry the flavour-rich sauce without clumping together.
4. What are some good garnishes to serve with this dish?
Garnishes are key to adding freshness, texture, and visual appeal to this dish. Finely sliced green onions (scallions) are a must for their mild oniony bite and vibrant colour. Toasted sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch and aroma. Fresh cilantro (coriander) leaves provide a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich sauce. For an extra zing, a wedge of lime or lemon squeezed over the top just before eating can really brighten all the flavours. You could also add a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots for another layer of texture and savoury depth.
5. Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! This recipe lends itself well to some make-ahead prep, which makes cooking even faster when you’re short on time. The salmon marinade can be prepared a few hours in advance, or even in the morning before work – just cover and refrigerate the fillets until ready to cook. The garlic oil can be made ahead and stored in a small jar or airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, preserving its fragrance. Even the noodle sauce can be whisked ahead of time and kept chilled. When it’s dinner time, all you’ll need to do is boil the noodles, pan-sear the salmon, toss everything together, and garnish – dinner ready in minutes.