Salmon Teriyaki

This Salmon Teriyaki recipe features tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner served over rice or alongside steamed vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 25 minutes.
• Rich, sweet, and savory – The perfect balance of flavors in every bite.
• Healthy and nutritious – High in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Customizable – Adjust the sweetness and spice to your preference.
• Better than takeout – Enjoy restaurant-quality teriyaki salmon at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salmon

• 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp mirin (optional for authentic flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• ½ tsp cornstarch (mixed with 1 tbsp water)

For Garnish (Optional)

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, mirin, garlic, and ginger.
• In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry.

2. Cook the Salmon

• Pat the salmon fillets dry and season with salt and black pepper.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Place salmon skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and flaky. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

• In the same pan, pour in the teriyaki sauce mixture.
• Simmer for 1-2 minutes, then stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken.

4. Glaze the Salmon

• Return the cooked salmon to the pan and spoon the sauce over the fillets.
• Let cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the salmon to absorb the sauce.

5. Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• Serve over rice or with steamed vegetables.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki – Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha.
• Baked Teriyaki Salmon – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, then brush with teriyaki sauce.
• Grilled Teriyaki Salmon – Grill on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, basting with sauce.
• Low-Sugar Option – Replace honey with monk fruit sweetener or coconut aminos.
• Extra Citrus Flavor – Add 1 tsp orange zest for a hint of citrus.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon without the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 30-45 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw completely before cooking for even results.

What side dishes go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad pair well.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce has a fresher taste and no preservatives.

How do I keep the salmon from sticking to the pan?

Use a nonstick pan and heat the oil before adding the salmon.

Can I make this in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, then brush with teriyaki sauce.

Can I marinate the salmon in teriyaki sauce?

Yes, marinate for 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, cook the salmon and store it separately from the sauce. Reheat and glaze before serving.

What’s the best way to thicken teriyaki sauce?

Cornstarch mixed with water helps create a thicker, glossy sauce.

Can I double the sauce recipe?

Yes! It’s great for drizzling over rice or vegetables.

Conclusion

Salmon Teriyaki is a delicious, quick, and healthy meal that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. Whether served with rice, veggies, or noodles, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Try it tonight for an easy, restaurant-quality meal at home!