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: 2 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Comfort Plates

I love whipping up this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon when I'm craving something delicious yet simple. The savory-sweet teriyaki glaze elevates the salmon perfectly, and it all comes together in less than 30 minutes! This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or steamed vegetables, making it a complete meal that's as satisfying as it is flavorful. Once you try this recipe, you'll realize that preparing authentic Asian flavors at home doesn’t have to be a complicated affair.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:07:34.578Z

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon at home, I was amazed at how easy it was to achieve restaurant-quality flavors right in my own kitchen. The key to the dish is allowing the salmon to soak up the delicious marinade, which brings out the natural richness of the fish while adding that delightful teriyaki sweetness.

I discovered that using fresh ginger and garlic in the marinade created a depth of flavor that really makes this dish stand out. Trust me; it's worth the additional minute to grate them fresh rather than using jarred versions.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Perfect balance of sweet and savory that tantalizes the taste buds
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights
Healthy and nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids

Understanding the Teriyaki Glaze

The teriyaki glaze is the star of this dish, providing both sweetness and depth to the salmon. To achieve the perfect consistency, ensure your sauce is simmered briefly after marinating, allowing some of the moisture to evaporate. This concentrates the flavors while creating a lovely glossy finish that clings beautifully to the fish. If you prefer a thicker glaze, consider adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) while heating the marinade until it bubbles and thickens.

Soy sauce is a key ingredient, providing the umami flavor that balances the sweetness of brown sugar. When choosing soy sauce, opt for a low-sodium version if you're watching your salt intake, as this will help control the overall seasoning without compromising the teriyaki flavor. Alternatively, tamari can be used for a gluten-free option, ensuring the dish is accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

The cooking method here is crucial for achieving a tender, flaky texture in your salmon. Start cooking skin-side down in a preheated non-stick skillet set to medium heat. This allows the skin to crisp while providing a barrier against the heat. If using a cast-iron skillet, ensure it’s well seasoned to prevent sticking. The key is to avoid flipping the fish too soon; the salmon should release easily from the pan when it’s ready, indicating it has formed a nice crust.

If you’re concerned about overcooking, an instant-read thermometer can be your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare, and remove the salmon from the heat as it will continue to cook slightly after being taken off. For those who enjoy crispy edges, broil the salmon for the last minute of cooking, brushing with more marinade for a charred flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Make sure everything is ready before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, 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 about 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon, skin side down. Cook for about 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes, brushing with the marinade as it cooks.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the skillet and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!

Don’t forget to serve your teriyaki salmon with some steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a teaspoon of chili paste to the marinade. It really enhances the flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which can absorb the flavorful glaze and complete your meal. You may also serve it alongside sautéed bok choy or a bright cucumber salad to add a refreshing crunch. For a more substantial meal, consider adding stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas for added color and nutrition.

To elevate the dining experience, drizzle additional teriyaki sauce over the finished dish or serve it in a bento box style with various sides. This not only adds visual appeal but also introduces different textures and flavors, creating a well-rounded presentation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re looking to prep this dish in advance, marinate the salmon fillets up to 24 hours ahead of cooking. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the fish. Just make sure to keep the salmon in the refrigerator while marinating to avoid any food safety issues. After cooking, leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, maintaining its flavor and texture when reheated gently on low heat.

While freezing is an option, be aware that it may alter the texture of the salmon upon thawing. If you decide to freeze, wrap the cooked salmon tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with other firm fish like trout or even chicken.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to a week ahead and keep it in the fridge.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce.