Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: International Kitchen Classics

I absolutely love cooking with salmon, and this Japanese teriyaki salmon recipe has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The sweet and savory glaze beautifully complements the richness of the fish, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and delightful. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and I love serving it with steamed rice and fresh vegetables. This recipe is not only simple to make but also elevates any meal into something extraordinary. It’s a dish that I often crave – you will too once you try it!

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:07:34.751Z

One evening, I decided to experiment with a classic Japanese recipe and was amazed by how simple and rewarding it was to make teriyaki salmon at home. The key is to let the salmon marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes to infuse it with rich flavors. After marinating, I grilled it to achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

This method not only amplifies the flavor but also makes the salmon incredibly easy to cook. I've found that using fresh ginger and garlic in the marinade enhances the overall depth, making it stand out. It’s become a personal favorite for family gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, umami-packed flavors that delight the palate
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights
Healthy omega-3 fatty acids from salmon

The Art of Marinating

Marinating the salmon is a crucial step in developing the rich flavors of this dish. As the salmon sits in the teriyaki marinade, it absorbs the sweet and savory notes, enhancing its natural flavor. A minimum marinating time of 30 minutes is recommended, but if you have more time, letting it marinate for 1-2 hours will yield even deeper flavors. Cover the bowl tightly or use a resealable plastic bag to ensure that the salmon is fully coated in the marinade.

For those looking for a quick flavor boost, consider adding some citrus zest, such as orange or lime, to your marinade. The acidity from the citrus can help to tenderize the fish while adding a brightness that complements the teriyaki. Just remember not to marinate for too long if you add acidic ingredients, as they can break down the proteins in the salmon too much.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, using a skillet is ideal for achieving a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding the vegetable oil, which should shimmer but not smoke. This indicates that it's hot enough to create a nice crust on the skin side of the salmon. Don't rush this step; let it cook undisturbed for about 6 minutes to get that golden edge before flipping.

After flipping the salmon, adding the reserved marinade will not only provide extra flavor but also create a nice glaze. Cook until the marinade reduces slightly and becomes syrupy, which will take an additional 4-5 minutes. The salmon should be firm yet will flake easily with a fork. If you're uncertain, using a food thermometer is a great way to check doneness; the internal temperature should reach around 145°F.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation is key when serving this teriyaki salmon. Plating the fillets with a drizzle of the glossy glaze adds a restaurant-quality touch. To elevate the dish, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions, which add both visual appeal and a subtle crunch. Pairing with steamed rice allows you to enjoy every last drop of the luscious glaze, while fresh sautéed or steamed vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious contrast.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider adding a side of pickled vegetables for an additional layer of flavor; the tang can balance the sweetness of the teriyaki beautifully. Alternatively, you can serve the salmon over a bed of quinoa or farro for a nutritious twist. The nutty flavors of these grains will complement the dish nicely and provide added texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
1 tablespoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Salmon

2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Mix the teriyaki ingredients thoroughly and let them work their magic on the salmon!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. This flavorful marinade is the essence of your dish.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the fish to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Cook the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place in the skillet, skin-side down. Cook for about 6 minutes, then flip and pour the reserved marinade over the salmon.

Finish Cooking

Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. The glaze should be nicely caramelized.

Serve

Plate the salmon, drizzle with extra glaze if desired, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with steamed rice and veggies.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor twist, consider adding a splash of citrus juice like lime or orange to the marinade. It brightens the dish beautifully and adds a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Seal the cooked salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy again, avoid reheating in the microwave as it can dry out the fish. Instead, warm it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or extra marinade to keep it moist. Covering the skillet will help to speed up the reheating process.

For meal prep enthusiasts, you can also marinate the salmon fillets a day ahead and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen as they sit. Just remember to take them out of the fridge about 15 minutes before cooking to allow the salmon to come to room temperature for more even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re unable to find mirin, a good alternative is a mixture of sake and sugar, or you can use a sweet white wine. In a pinch, use apple juice with a splash of vinegar for a sweeter, tangy mix. For those who prefer a low-sodium option, there are several brands of low-sodium soy sauce available that work perfectly in this recipe without compromising flavor.

In terms of salmon varieties, while the recipe suggests using fillets, you can also use salmon steaks or even trout if you prefer. Each option will offer a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose based on your personal preference or what's available at your local market.

Variations to Explore

For a spicy kick, consider adding chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade. This will add a delightful heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the teriyaki. Alternatively, if you enjoy a more smoky flavor, try using a smoked soy sauce or grilling the salmon rather than using a skillet for a different texture and taste experience.

You can also transform this dish by incorporating different vegetables into the mix. Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to steam alongside the salmon, creating a one-pan meal that’s both vibrant and satisfying. Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables to make this dish your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and pat dry before marinating for the best results.

→ What else can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

It pairs well with rice, steamed vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use chicken instead of salmon?

Absolutely! This marinade works well with chicken thighs or breasts as well.