Teriyaki Salmon Recipe: Easy Dinner for the Whole Family
If you’re a fan of salmon, you’re going to love this Teriyaki Salmon recipe! It’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all wrapped around a tender and flaky salmon fillet. The best part? You don’t need hours of marinating time, and it’s super easy to make. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your dinner table, even for those who aren’t big on salmon—trust me, it’ll change their minds.
Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
Quick and Simple: No need for lengthy preparation or marinating. Just 20 minutes, and you’re good to go.
Healthy & Flavorful: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, and the homemade teriyaki sauce enhances its taste without overpowering the natural flavors of the fish.
Customizable: You can use any type of salmon—wild-caught or farm-raised—and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love this dish, thanks to its sweet teriyaki glaze and rich flavor.
Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon
For this recipe, you’ll need a 2 to 3 lb salmon fillet. We recommend using wild-caught Sockeye Salmon for a healthier, leaner option. If you’re using farm-raised salmon, it’ll be fattier and may take a bit longer to cook (more on that below). Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients for a flavorful teriyaki glaze:
Soy Sauce (or Tamari for a gluten-free option)
Honey or brown sugar
Rice Vinegar
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (grated)
Sesame Oil
Green Onions (for garnish)
Sesame Seeds (optional for topping)
How to Make Teriyaki Salmon
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 402˚F.
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil (this makes clean-up easier) and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger. and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Stir the mixture until the honey or sugar is completely dissolved, creating a smooth, flavorful sauce.
Step 3: Marinate the Salmon
Cut the salmon fillet into individual portions and place them in a shallow dish or mixing bowl.
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let it marinate for 20 minutes. You can leave it at room temperature or refrigerate it.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
Transfer the marinated salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet, keeping the marinade aside for later.
Bake the salmon at 402˚F for 12-16 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
Step 5: Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce
While the salmon is baking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the salmon is baked, brush the thickened teriyaki sauce over the top of each piece.
Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor and presentation.
How Long to Bake Salmon?
Cooking time depends on the type of salmon you’re using:
Farmed Salmon (like Atlantic Salmon) is generally fattier and thicker, so it can be baked for 14-16 minutes without drying out.
Wild-Caught Salmon (like Sockeye or Coho) is leaner and cooks faster. Aim for 12-14 minutes, as it tends to dry out more quickly if overcooked.
Always check for doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the salmon. If it flakes easily, it’s ready to serve!
What to Serve with Teriyaki Salmon
Teriyaki Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice: The neutral flavor of rice perfectly complements the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots to add a healthy, crunchy contrast.
Stir-Fried Noodles: Asian-style noodles tossed with vegetables and soy sauce can elevate this meal into a restaurant-style dinner.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are essential for heart health and reducing inflammation.
High Protein: Salmon is an excellent source of lean protein, making it great for muscle repair and growth.
Vitamins: It’s packed with vitamin D and B12, both crucial for energy production and bone health.
How to Perfect Teriyaki Salmon
-Don’t Over-Marinate: While salmon can soak up flavors quickly, leaving it in the marinade for too long can make it too salty or break down the texture. Stick to around 20 minutes.
-Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger, garlic, and quality soy sauce or Tamari make a noticeable difference in the flavor of the sauce.
-Don’t Overcook: Check your salmon at the lower end of the cooking range to avoid overcooking. Salmon continues to cook after it’s removed from the oven, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.
FAQ:
For teriyaki salmon do you need salt and pepper
for teriyaki salmon do you need salt and pepper :No, you typically don’t need to add extra salt and pepper when making Teriyaki Salmon. The soy sauce used in the teriyaki marinade already provides enough saltiness, while the other ingredients like garlic, ginger, and sesame oil add plenty of flavor. If you prefer a slightly spicier kick, you can add pepper, but it’s optional and based on personal taste. The teriyaki sauce is flavorful enough on its own!
Teriyaki marinade for salmon where to buy
teriyaki marinade for salmon where to buy: You can easily find teriyaki marinade at most grocery stores or online. Look for it in the Asian foods aisle of your local supermarket. Popular brands like Kikkoman, Soy Vay, and Primal Kitchen offer good quality bottled teriyaki marinades. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, brands like Tamari or Coconut Aminos are excellent choices. Alternatively, you can make your own homemade teriyaki sauce, which is quick, fresh, and allows you to control the ingredients!
Conclusion: A Must-Try Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
This Teriyaki Salmon recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something healthy and flavorful. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re new to cooking salmon or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, this recipe will not disappoint.
Try it today and bring restaurant-quality Asian flavors to your home!