Salmon Teriyaki is a delicious and vibrant dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the delicate taste of fish combined with a sticky, caramelized glaze. The balance of umami, sweetness, and a hint of tang makes this dish not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, salmon teriyaki is sure to impress!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this salmon teriyaki recipe for its mouthwatering flavor and simplicity in preparation. The teriyaki sauce, made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, infuses the salmon with a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with its natural richness. It’s quick to cook, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy lifestyles. Plus, it fits well within a healthy eating plan, providing a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious dinner option.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your salmon teriyaki, consider the following tips:
- Marinate: For maximum flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to prevent it from becoming too salty.
- High Heat: Cooking the salmon on high heat will help achieve that beautiful caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside tender and flaky.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—fresh ginger and garlic will elevate the teriyaki sauce significantly.
- Cook Skin-On: If you can, use skin-on salmon fillets; the skin crisps up beautifully and adds an additional layer of texture to the dish.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal preppers, this salmon teriyaki recipe can be made ahead in several ways:
- Marinate Ahead: You can marinate the salmon up to 2 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
- Prepare the Sauce: Make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick reheat before using.
- Cooked Salmon Storage: Leftover cooked salmon can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it easy to enjoy in salads or wraps later in the week.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your salmon teriyaki:
- Different Proteins: Substitute the salmon with chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a different take on teriyaki.
- Flavor Twists: Add a splash of sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick or incorporate sesame oil for a nutty flavor.
- Cooking Methods: Instead of pan-searing, try grilling or baking your salmon. Each method will impart a unique flavor and texture.
How to Serve
To serve your salmon teriyaki, place the glazed fillets on a bed of steamed rice or quinoa. Garnish with finely chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added crunch and color. Pair it with steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy for a complete meal. The vibrant colors of the dish will surely make it a centerpiece on your dining table.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these pairing suggestions:
- Drink Pairings: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the dish beautifully. Alternatively, a refreshing green tea can also enhance the umami flavors.
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables, edamame, or miso soup for a well-rounded Japanese-inspired meal.
- Desserts: For dessert, consider a light fruit sorbet or mochi to cleanse the palate after the savory salmon.
How to Store
To store any leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Place the salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked salmon teriyaki for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave for a quick option, but be careful not to overcook it.
Equipment Needed
You will need:
- A non-stick skillet or frying pan for cooking the salmon.
- A small saucepan for preparing the teriyaki sauce.
- A whisk or spoon for mixing the sauce.
- A cutting board and knife for prepping your ingredients.
If you don’t have a non-stick skillet, a regular cast iron or stainless-steel pan will work as long as you properly oil it to prevent sticking.
Dietary Adaptations
For those with dietary restrictions:
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
- Vegan: Substitute the salmon with tofu or tempeh and use a vegan-friendly soy sauce.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is inherently nut-free, but ensure that any additional sauces or garnishes are also nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
Seasonal ingredients can enhance your teriyaki:
- Spring/Summer: Add fresh asparagus or snap peas to the vegetable side for a seasonal touch.
- Fall/Winter: Incorporate roasted root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes as a hearty side dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon; just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
What can I substitute for mirin?
If you don’t have mirin, you can use a mixture of sake and sugar or white wine and a little sugar.
How long do I cook the salmon?
Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your fillet.
Can I double the sauce recipe?
Absolutely! Doubling the sauce is great if you want extra for drizzling over rice or veggies.
How To Make salmon teriyaki recipe
Salmon Teriyaki
Salmon Teriyaki is a delicious and vibrant dish that brings together the rich flavors of salmon with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until the sugar is dissolved.
- Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce: While the salmon is cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Glaze the Salmon: Brush the thickened sauce over the salmon fillets in the skillet during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Transfer the salmon to a plate, drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 608Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 143mgSodium 1017mgCarbohydrates 16gFiber 1gSugar 12gProtein 53g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Salmon teriyaki is a fantastic dish that is easy to make, delicious, and satisfying. With its sweet and savory glaze, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Japanese classic in the comfort of your own home!
