If you’re craving a meal that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table in no time, this Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s packed with rich, savory sauce, delicate salmon cooked to perfection, and a harmony of sweet and tangy notes that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a seafood lover looking to impress, this dish ticks all the boxes for simplicity, taste, and that satisfying glaze that lingers long after the last bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this salmon dish so memorable. From the tender salmon fillets to the punchy garlic and fresh ginger, every component is essential for that signature teriyaki magic.
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each): The heart of the dish, fresh or thawed salmon fillets ensure moist, flaky results.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances natural salmon flavors without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Provides a neutral base for searing the salmon to a golden crisp.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The umami-rich backbone of the teriyaki sauce, offering that classic savory depth.
- 2 tablespoons honey: Sweetness that perfectly balances soy sauce’s saltiness and helps create that sticky glaze.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a subtle tang, brightening the overall flavor and cutting through the richness.
- 1 tablespoon mirin (or additional honey if unavailable): A sweet Japanese rice wine that lends complexity and a gentle sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: A few drops go a long way, introducing a nutty aroma that instantly elevates the dish.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic brings a warm, slightly sharp punch to complement the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Adds a bright, peppery zing that’s essential in authentic teriyaki flavors.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish: These finishers add both a pop of color and crunchy texture.
How to Make Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Salmon and Season Lightly
Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel—this is key for getting that beautiful sear. Season each fillet lightly with salt and black pepper. Keeping the seasoning simple allows the teriyaki sauce to be the star without any competing flavors.
Step 2: Mix the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This sauce will transform the salmon with its rich, glossy, and sticky charm that’s the hallmark of a great teriyaki dish.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon to Golden Perfection
Heat your vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down if your fillets have skin. Cook them gently for 3 to 4 minutes or until the bottom turns a gorgeous golden brown and becomes crispy. This step ensures a luscious texture contrast that’s simply delicious.
Step 4: Flip and Add the Sauce
Carefully flip the fillets and cook the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, spooning the thickening sauce continuously over the fillets to glaze them beautifully. This step is where the magic happens — the sauce caramelizes slightly, clinging lovingly to the fish.
Step 5: Remove and Garnish
Once the salmon is cooked through and has that irresistible, glossy sheen, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy burst that completes the dish visually and flavor-wise.
How to Serve Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe
Garnishes
An elegant sprinkle of sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions not only brightens the plate but adds fresh texture and subtle nutty notes. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and invite everyone to dig in eagerly.
Side Dishes
Pair this salmon with fluffy steamed rice to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. Stir-fried vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, or bok choy provide vibrant colors and an extra dose of nutrition, making your meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salmon atop a bed of soba noodles tossed in a light sesame dressing. Or build a bento-style plate with pickled ginger, steamed edamame, and a wedge of lime—this transforms your meal into a stunning, Instagram-worthy feast that’s as delicious as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extras, place the salmon in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will keep well for up to 2 days without sacrificing too much on texture or taste.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked salmon teriyaki for up to 1 month. Wrap the fillets tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To gently reheat, use a low setting on your stovetop or microwave to avoid drying out the salmon. Spoon some reserved teriyaki sauce or a splash of water over the fillet to retain moisture. Avoid overcooking as salmon is best enjoyed when tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
What can I substitute for mirin if I don’t have any?
You can use an extra tablespoon of honey or a mixture of white grape juice and a splash of rice vinegar to mimic mirin’s sweetness and acidity.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out regular soy sauce with tamari, which is gluten-free, and you’re all set.
How do I know when the salmon is cooked perfectly?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside. Cooking times can vary slightly depending on thickness, so watch for that opaque, firm texture.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Definitely! Just cook the salmon in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which helps maintain that perfect sear and glaze.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe enough for anyone looking to whip up something special without fuss. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that feels lavish yet comes together effortlessly. You’re going to love how simple ingredients transform into something spectacular — so go ahead, try it tonight and watch this become a fast favorite in your meal rotation.
Print
Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Quick and Easy Salmon Teriyaki recipe offers a deliciously glazed salmon fillet cooked to perfection on the stovetop. Featuring a simple homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, it adds an authentic Asian flair that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Teriyaki Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mirin (or additional honey if unavailable)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor and ensure a nice sear.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined to form the flavorful glaze.
- Cook the Salmon: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down if they have skin, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the skin is crispy and the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully flip each fillet and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow the salmon to cook through evenly.
- Glaze with Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the salmon in the skillet, cooking for an additional 1 to 2 minutes while spooning the sauce over the fish. This thickens the sauce and gives a beautiful glaze.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat once the salmon is fully cooked and the sauce is glossy. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving to add texture and a fresh bite.
Notes
- Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables to create a complete and balanced meal.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute tamari sauce for soy sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook salmon to keep it moist and tender.
- Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth; you can replace it with additional honey if it’s unavailable.
