Quick & Tasty Teriyaki Salmon Recipe!
Salmon is a perfect weeknight meal when you want something quick but still delicious. When it’s dressed in the most amazing teriyaki sauce, you will have an out-of-this-world delicious dinner! This Easy Teriyaki Salmon is savory, slightly sweet, and flavorful in every bite. Such an easy and wonderful meal to come home to after a busy day. Our family, including my picky eaters, couldn’t seem to get enough of this delicious Teriyaki Salmon! It is the perfect weeknight meal but also fancy enough for special occasions. This is going to be a recipe that you make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
Quick and Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and less than 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a lifesaver when you’re short on time. Picky-Eater-Approved: Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist the savory-sweet flavor of this teriyaki salmon. It’s a winner for the whole family. Delicious and So Satisfying: The salmon turns out perfectly tender and flaky, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Ready in Less Than 30 Minutes: Need dinner in a hurry? No problem! This recipe is ready to serve in less time than it takes to decide on a takeout order. Perfect to Make Ahead of Time for Busy Weeknights: You can prep the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just marinate the salmon and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Skinless Salmon Fillets: For the best results, look for fresh salmon fillets with no skin. You can also use frozen fillets; just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Green Onion: Adds a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color to the dish. You can substitute with chives if you prefer. Sesame Seeds: These tiny seeds add a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch. If you don’t have sesame seeds, you can omit them.
For the teriyaki sauce:
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: The base of the teriyaki sauce, providing that classic umami flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. Rice Vinegar: Adds a tangy acidity to balance out the sweetness of the sauce. Garlic: Adds depth of flavor and a subtle kick. Freshly Grated Ginger: Gives the sauce a warm, spicy note. You can use ground ginger if you don’t have fresh ginger, but fresh is best. Canola Oil: Helps to emulsify the sauce and adds richness. Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to thicken the sauce as it cooks. Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the other flavors in the sauce.
Process Overview: How To Make Teriyaki Salmon Step-by-Step
Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).
Step 1 – Make The Teriyaki Sauce
Combine all the sauce ingredients in a medium bowl and stir until brown sugar is dissolved.
Step 2 – Marinate The Salmon
Place salmon fillets in a deep baking dish or a big bowl. Pour the sauce over the salmon, cover with plastic wrap, and let marinate in the refrigerator for 15 – 30 minutes.
Step 3 – Bake
Transfer the salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet. Reserve the marinade. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is flaky and cooked. Bake times may vary depending on the thickness of the salmon. You’ll know when the salmon is done when it is easily flaked: check the doneness of your salmon with a fork. When the salmon flakes easily with a fork, it’s ready, or when it reaches 145º F internally.
Step 3 – Reduce The Sauce
While the salmon is baking, add the remaining marinade to a small saucepan and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5-8 minutes. NOTE: If you want to thicken the sauce even more, add 1 -2 teaspoons of cornstarch to the sauce. Remove from heat and reserve to serve with the salmon.
Step 3 – Serve
When the salmon is done, remove it from the oven and brush each fillet with more sauce. If desired, sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice and steamed veggies.
Food Allergy Swaps
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free. Sesame-Free: Skip the sesame seeds altogether. They’re used mainly for garnish and a little extra crunch, so leaving them out won’t affect the overall flavor of the dish.
Variations & Additions
Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free alternative, substitute tofu for the salmon. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then marinate and cook as directed. Add Veggies: Toss some veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas with the salmon and roast them together for a complete meal in one pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the teriyaki salmon over a bed of fluffy white rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Add a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 – 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish and adds depth to the dish. Watch the Cooking Time: Salmon cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will give your teriyaki sauce the best flavor. Don’t skimp on these aromatic ingredients!
Storing and Freezing Instructions
Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the cooled salmon tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
More Recipes You’ll Love!
Cranberry Honey Glazed Salmon Easy Eggless Tuna Patties Sheet Pan Mustard Salmon Dinner Easy Eggless Salmon Patties Salmon with Roasted Tomatoes and Corn Skinny Glazed Salmon Browse more recipes…
Recipe Card 📖
