Teriyaki Salmon

Teriyaki salmon is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of sweet and savory. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it an ideal choice for impressing family and friends. With its tender fish and glossy glaze, teriyaki salmon stands out as both a nutritious meal and a visual delight on your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it suitable for any weeknight.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger creates a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate the salmon.
• Versatile: This recipe can be adapted with different proteins like chicken or trout, allowing you to customize your meal.
• Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this dish not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Garnish Options: With simple garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds, you can easily enhance the presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gathering the right tools will ensure a smooth experience. Here are some essential tools you’ll need to make teriyaki salmon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Resealable bag or shallow dish
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the salmon to perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create delicious teriyaki salmon:

For the Salmon

• 4 fresh salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp sesame oil

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Teriyaki Salmon

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
2. 1/4 cup brown sugar
3. 2 garlic cloves, minced
4. 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
5. 1 tsp sesame oil

Stir until well mixed.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

Place your salmon fillets in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) while your salmon marinates. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect bake.

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange your marinated salmon fillets on the sheet without overcrowding them. Bake in your preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

Once baked, drizzle with any remaining marinade from the dish. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving to enhance flavor and presentation.

This simple yet impressive teriyaki salmon recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household!

How to Serve Teriyaki Salmon

Serving Teriyaki salmon is a delightful way to elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides, garnishes, and sauces that complement its rich flavors.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice – Fluffy and fragrant, this rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce well.
• Brown Rice – A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Fried Rice – For a twist, serve with vegetable fried rice for added flavor and crunch.

With Vegetables

• Sautéed Broccoli – Lightly sautéed in garlic, it adds color and nutrition to the plate.
• Roasted Asparagus – Simple yet elegant; roasting brings out the natural sweetness.
• Stir-Fried Bok Choy – A crisp and flavorful green that complements the dish perfectly.

With Salads

• Cucumber Salad – Refreshing and crunchy, this salad provides a cool contrast.
• Asian Slaw – Made with cabbage and carrots, it adds a crunchy texture and vibrant colors.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Salmon

To ensure your Teriyaki salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the salmon to marinate for 1–2 hours intensifies the flavors.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the taste of your marinade significantly.
• Monitor Cooking Time – Keep an eye on the salmon while baking to prevent overcooking; it should flake easily when done.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness – If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the remaining marinade until reduced before drizzling over the salmon.
• Experiment with Fish Variations – Try using trout or even chicken for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Teriyaki salmon can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its sweet and savory profile.

1. Steamed Veggies – A mix of steamed vegetables like carrots and snap peas adds color and nutrients.
2. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup balances the meal with umami richness.
3. Quinoa Salad – Nutty quinoa mixed with cucumbers and bell peppers offers a light, refreshing side.
4. Noodle Stir-Fry – Tossed with veggies in sesame oil, this dish makes for a hearty accompaniment.
5. Pickled Vegetables – The tanginess cuts through the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
6. Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter provides a sweet crunch that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing teriyaki salmon, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using regular soy sauce: Regular soy sauce can overpower the dish with saltiness. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to maintain balance in flavor.

• Skipping the marinating time: Marinating for at least 30 minutes enhances the salmon’s flavor. Skipping this step results in a less tasty dish.

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many salmon fillets on one baking sheet can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there is enough space between each fillet for proper heat circulation.

• Not checking doneness: Salmon should be cooked through but not overdone. Use a fork to check if it flakes easily; this indicates it’s ready.

• Neglecting garnishes: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions add texture and visual appeal. Don’t skip these final touches for a restaurant-quality look.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store teriyaki salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep your salmon fresh and prevent odor absorption.

Freezing Teriyaki Salmon

• Duration: Teriyaki salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap individual fillets tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Teriyaki Salmon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm gently, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fish for teriyaki?

Yes, you can use other fish like trout or even chicken as alternatives. The marinade works well with various proteins.

What sides pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad complement teriyaki salmon nicely, providing balance and flavor variety.

How do I know when my teriyaki salmon is done?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I make teriyaki salmon ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the salmon ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki salmon is not only quick to make but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. This recipe allows room for customization; feel free to add spices or swap proteins based on your preferences. Try making this delicious dish today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Teriyaki Salmon

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of teriyaki salmon, a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms tender salmon fillets into a culinary masterpiece, ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With a glossy marinade made from soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger, this dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Serve it with your choice of rice or vegetables for a wholesome meal that your family and friends will love.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 fresh salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Place salmon fillets in a resealable bag or shallow dish; pour the marinade over them. Seal and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange the marinated salmon on it without overcrowding.
5. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until cooked through and flaky.
6. Drizzle with remaining marinade and top with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 70mg