Teriyaki Salmon

Teriyaki Salmon is a delicious and flavorful dish featuring tender, flaky salmon glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It’s a quick, healthy meal that combines rich umami notes with just the right hint of sweetness. Whether pan-seared, baked, or grilled, this salmon recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This teriyaki salmon recipe is simple yet packed with flavor. The homemade sauce caramelizes beautifully, coating the fish in a glossy, sticky glaze. It’s high in protein, heart-healthy, and pairs well with rice, noodles, or veggies. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes using pantry staples—no takeout required.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar or honey
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (fresh or ground)
• Rice vinegar or mirin
• Sesame oil
• Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• Water
• Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Optional: In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry. Stir into the sauce and cook until thickened.
3. Remove the sauce from heat and set aside.
4. Season salmon lightly with salt and pepper.
5. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and sear salmon fillets, skin-side down first, for 3–4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
6. Reduce heat to low, pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to glaze.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Baked Teriyaki Salmon: Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, brushing with sauce halfway through.
• Grilled Teriyaki Salmon: Marinate the salmon and grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
• Spicy Teriyaki: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
• Pineapple Teriyaki: Add pineapple juice to the sauce for a tropical twist.
• Maple Teriyaki: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a deep, earthy sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover teriyaki salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
To freeze, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw it fully and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.

Is the teriyaki sauce sweet?

Yes, it has a balanced sweet-savory flavor. Adjust the sugar to your taste.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store it in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade tastes fresher and lets you control the flavor.

Is teriyaki salmon healthy?

Yes, especially when served with steamed vegetables or brown rice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it gluten-free.

Can I cook this in the oven?

Yes, baking is an easy alternative. Baste with sauce before and during baking.

Should I marinate the salmon?

Optional. Marinating for 15–30 minutes enhances flavor but isn’t necessary if glazing.

What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, soba noodles, or an Asian-style slaw work perfectly.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Salmon is a quick, satisfying dish full of rich flavor and simple ingredients. Whether pan-seared, baked, or grilled, it’s a reliable go-to for healthy, delicious dinners. With a glossy homemade glaze and tender flaky fish, this meal is sure to become a staple in your weekly recipe rotation.

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