Irresistible Teriyaki Salmon: A Flavorful Delight

Imagine plopping a piece of teriyaki salmon on your plate, the sweet and savory aroma wafting through the air like a warm hug. The glossy glaze glimmers under the lights, promising a flavor explosion with every bite. This dish doesn’t just taste good; it transports you to a bustling Japanese market, where the sound of sizzling fish dances in harmony with laughter and chatter.

I remember the first time I made teriyaki salmon for my family. The looks on their faces—part surprise, part pure joy—were priceless. They devoured every bite as if it were the last supper. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive gathering, this recipe shines like a star.

I once served this at a dinner party where I got unsolicited compliments from my aunt who usually critiques everything.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Salmon Fillets: Fresh or frozen works fine; just ensure they’re thick enough for grilling.

• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while maximizing flavor.

• Brown Sugar: This adds that irresistible sweetness; dark brown sugar gives more depth.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic brings an aromatic kick that pairs beautifully with salmon.

• Ginger Root: Fresh ginger enhances the flavor profile; grate it for even distribution.

• Sesame Oil: A drizzle of sesame oil gives a nutty aroma and richness to the dish.

• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness as a garnish; don’t skip this!

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and visual appeal; sprinkle generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make teriyaki salmon

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until well combined and sugar dissolves completely.

Marinate the Salmon: Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let them soak up those flavors for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in the fridge.

Preheat Your Grill or Oven: Set your grill to medium-high heat or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon will cook evenly without drying out.

Cook the Salmon: If grilling, place fillets skin-side down on the grill for about 6-8 minutes per side. If baking, put them on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.

Add Final Touches: Drizzle some reserved marinade over the salmon during cooking and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving to elevate both flavor and presentation.

Garnish Before Serving: Serve your teriyaki salmon hot off the grill or out of the oven garnished with chopped green onions for that fresh touch and extra burst of color.

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the salmon for 30 minutes, then grill it on medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. This ensures juicy, flavorful results that will make your taste buds dance.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the salmon for chicken or tofu for a vegetarian twist. Adding sesame seeds or green onions can elevate the presentation and flavor profile as well.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain its moisture and flavor without drying it out.

Cooking teriyaki salmon always reminds me of my first dinner party where everyone raved about this dish. It was such a hit that I still use their compliments as my personal chef motivation!

FAQ

What is teriyaki salmon?

Teriyaki salmon is salmon fillet glazed with a sweet soy-based sauce, usually grilled or baked.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking for best results.

What should I serve with teriyaki salmon?

Serve teriyaki salmon with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for balance.

Print

Teriyaki Salmon

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in the mouthwatering experience of teriyaki salmon, where sweet and savory meld perfectly in every bite. This vibrant dish features succulent salmon fillets glazed with a rich soy-based sauce, delivering an explosion of flavors reminiscent of bustling Japanese markets. Ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe will impress your family and friends alike.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Baking
• Cuisine: Japanese

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade by whisking soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until fully combined.
2. Marinate salmon fillets in a shallow dish for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high or oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Grill salmon skin-side down for about 6-8 minutes per side or bake on a lined sheet for 12-15 minutes until cooked through.
5. Drizzle reserved marinade over the salmon during cooking and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh green onions and serve immediately.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian option, substitute salmon with tofu or chicken. Customize your garnishes by adding extra sesame seeds or fresh herbs. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently to maintain moisture.