Teriyaki Salmon
Teriyaki Salmon is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. This easy-to-make recipe combines the fresh taste of salmon with a rich, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Teriyaki Salmon offers a delicious way to enjoy healthy fish while impressing your guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This Teriyaki Salmon recipe is easy to prepare and takes just about an hour from start to finish.
- Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal, making it suitable for any occasion.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and good fats, this dish is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools in the kitchen makes preparing Teriyaki Salmon even easier. Here are some essential items you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the salmon while allowing juices to collect for easy serving.
- Aluminum foil: Makes clean-up easier by preventing sticking and catching drips from the salmon.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining ingredients like sauces and seasonings before applying them to the fish.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 1/2 lbs salmon filet (sliced into 2 wide slices)
For the Sauce
- 1 cup water
- 5 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (reduced-sodium)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
For Thickening the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water (cold)
Garnishes (Optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Green onion chopped
How to Make Teriyaki Salmon
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Grease a large rimmed baking sheet. For easier clean-up, cover it with foil before greasing.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your salmon cooks evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Water
2. Brown sugar
3. Soy sauce
4. Honey
5. Minced garlic
6. Ground ginger
7. Rice vinegar
8. Red pepper flakes
Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon
Place the salmon slices on your prepared baking sheet. Pour half of the sauce over the top, ensuring each piece is well coated.
Step 5: Bake in Oven
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 6: Thicken Remaining Sauce
While the salmon bakes, take the remaining half of your sauce mixture:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring it to a simmer.
2. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth.
3. Stir this mixture into your simmering sauce until thickened.
Step 7: Serve Your Dish
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle it with your thickened sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Salmon!
How to Serve Teriyaki Salmon
Serving Teriyaki Salmon can elevate your meal experience. The rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce beautifully complement various sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your plate.
With Steamed Rice
- Steamed white or brown rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the savory teriyaki sauce, making every bite satisfying.
On a Bed of Greens
- A fresh salad with mixed greens adds crunch and color, balancing the richness of the salmon with vibrant veggies.
Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus bring out the umami flavors in teriyaki salmon while adding a smoky touch.
Topped with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions
- Adding sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only improves presentation but also introduces extra texture and flavor.
Served with Noodles
- Pairing teriyaki salmon with soba or udon noodles creates a deliciously filling dish that is easy to prepare.
How to Perfect Teriyaki Salmon
To achieve the best teriyaki salmon, consider these simple tips for perfecting your dish every time.
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Choose fresh salmon: Fresh fish enhances flavor and texture. Look for bright color and firm flesh when selecting your salmon.
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Marinate adequately: Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 30 minutes will help infuse it with rich flavors from the teriyaki sauce.
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Watch cooking time: Overcooking can dry out the salmon. Keep an eye on it; cook until it flakes easily but remains moist.
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Use cornstarch wisely: Mixing cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the sauce creates a smooth glaze. This helps thicken the sauce without clumps.
Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Salmon
Pairing side dishes with your teriyaki salmon can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
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Steamed Broccoli: This classic vegetable adds a healthy crunch and pairs well with the flavors of the salmon.
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Fried Rice: A traditional favorite, fried rice complements teriyaki wonderfully with its savory taste and various textures.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as a comforting addition, enhancing the Asian theme of your meal.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers nutty flavors and is packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the salty goodness of teriyaki salmon.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds brightness and balances out the richness of the fish.
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Edamame Beans: These protein-packed snacks are fun to eat and add an authentic touch to your Asian-inspired meal.
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Garlic Noodles: Simple garlic noodles bring extra flavor to your plate without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Teriyaki Salmon, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid.
- Skipping the marination: Marinating your salmon enriches the flavor. Allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to penetrate.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger make a significant difference in taste. Always opt for fresh over powdered.
- Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it to prevent dryness; aim for a tender, flaky texture.
- Ignoring temperature settings: Preheat your oven properly. Cooking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking and enhances flavor.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds or green onions can reduce visual appeal and flavor complexity. Add them for a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Teriyaki Salmon in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Teriyaki Salmon
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Properly stored, it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Teriyaki Salmon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce, stirring gently until heated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions you might have about Teriyaki Salmon.
How do I make Teriyaki Salmon spicy?
To add spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced fresh chili peppers during cooking.
Can I use frozen salmon for Teriyaki Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it is fully thawed before marinating and cooking for best results.
What sides go well with Teriyaki Salmon?
Teriyaki Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Is Teriyaki Salmon healthy?
Yes! With its high protein content and omega-3 fatty acids, Teriyaki Salmon is a nutritious choice when prepared mindfully.
Final Thoughts
Teriyaki Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the sauce. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Teriyaki Salmon
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves four
Description
Experience the delightful taste of Teriyaki Salmon, a quick and easy recipe that transforms fresh salmon into a savory-sweet masterpiece. This dish features tender salmon fillets glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, Teriyaki Salmon not only impresses guests with its vibrant presentation but also offers a healthy meal option loaded with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Serve it over steamed rice or grilled vegetables for a complete dining experience that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 lbs salmon fillet (cut into 2" wide slices)
- 1 cup water
- 5 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with aluminum foil.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together water, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ground ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Place the salmon slices on the prepared baking sheet and pour half of the sauce over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- While baking, take the remaining sauce mixture and simmer it in a small saucepan over medium heat. In another bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth; stir this into the simmering sauce until thickened.
- Once cooked, drizzle the thickened sauce over the salmon and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
