Delicious Teriyaki Salmon Recipe: A Sweet & Savory Masterpiece for Weeknights

Few dishes marry convenience and bold flavor like this Delicious Teriyaki Salmon Recipe. Imagine tender, flaky salmon coated in a sweet and savory glaze with hints of garlic and ginger—a meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish but takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to impress dinner guests, this easy teriyaki salmon recipe delivers.

Growing up, this dish was my mom’s secret weapon for weeknight dinners. That unmistakable aroma of soy, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil would drift through the house, promising something comforting and satisfying. Today, I’ve refined that nostalgic favorite into a Flavor-Packed Teriyaki Salmon that’s as nutritious as it is indulgent.

Let’s dive into the sweet simplicity of this Teriyaki-Glazed Salmon Fillet—you’re just one recipe away from your new weeknight staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🕒 Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• 🍣 Nutritious – Rich in omega-3s, high-quality protein, and heart-healthy fats.
• 🌿 Naturally Gluten-Free Option – Just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• 💰 Budget-Friendly – Salmon fillets + pantry staples = a gourmet meal on a dime.
• 🔥 Versatile – Grill it, bake it, or air-fry for your preferred cooking method.
• 🍽️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Makes delicious teriyaki salmon bowls with brown rice and veggies.
• 🧒 Kid-Approved – The sweet and sticky glaze wins over even picky eaters.
• 🌎 Globally Inspired – Combines Japanese teriyaki flavors with a Western-style ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into the homemade teriyaki salmon magic:

For the Salmon:

• 2 ½ lbs salmon fillet, cut into 2-inch-wide portions
  🧠 Tip: Choose wild-caught salmon for deeper flavor and nutritional density.

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 3 Tbsp teriyaki sauce
  Adds the signature sweet-savory base.
• 3 Tbsp hoisin sauce
  Boosts depth and stickiness.
• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
  Provides umami and saltiness (use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free).
• 1 Tbsp white vinegar
  Adds a tangy brightness to balance the sweetness.
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil
  Infuses the glaze with rich, nutty flavor.
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
  Creates that gorgeous caramelized glaze.
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  Enhances savoriness and aroma.
• 2 tsp fresh grated ginger (or ½ tsp ground)
  Delivers heat and complexity.

Substitution Tip: Out of hoisin? Use a mix of BBQ sauce and a splash of soy for a similar thickness.

How to Make the Delicious Teriyaki Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet

Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly grease. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients until the sugar dissolves completely. This creates your teriyaki marinade and future glaze.

Step 3: Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon pieces in a bowl and pour the marinade over them. Cover with plastic wrap and let marinate for 20 minutes at room temp (or refrigerate).

Step 4: Bake the Salmon

Transfer salmon pieces to the prepared baking sheet. Reserve the leftover marinade. Bake for 12–16 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Step 5: Reduce the Sauce

While the salmon bakes, pour remaining marinade into a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until it thickens into a glaze.

Step 6: Glaze & Garnish

Brush or drizzle the thickened teriyaki glaze over the baked salmon. Sprinkle with chopped scallions and sesame seeds for crunch and color.

Featured Image

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Pro Tips from the Experts

How do I keep salmon from drying out?

Don’t overbake! Salmon continues cooking even after it’s out of the oven. Aim for an internal temperature of 125–130°F for medium.

What pairs well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, or a crunchy cabbage slaw make perfect companions. Try it with pineapple fried rice for a tropical twist.

Can I make this low-sodium or sugar-free?

Yes! Use coconut aminos and a sugar-free brown sweetener like Swerve or monk fruit.

Best Ways to Serve This Dish

Pair this Asian-Style Teriyaki Salmon with:

• Brown rice + broccoli for meal-prep bowls
• Quinoa and edamame for a protein-packed lunch
• Lettuce wraps with pickled carrots and avocado
• Soba noodles and grilled zucchini for a noodle bowl

✨ For more easy weeknight wins, try our Sweet Chili Chicken Bowl

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 21g (4g saturated)
• Carbs: 18g
• Sugar: 13g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 610mg
  Based on a 6 oz salmon fillet with glaze.

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked portions (without glaze) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grill this instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side and baste with sauce.

How long can I marinate teriyaki salmon?

20–30 minutes is ideal. Any longer and the acidity may start to break down the salmon.

Is teriyaki salmon healthy?

Yes. Salmon is rich in omega-3s and protein. Opt for low-sodium sauces and natural sweeteners for an even healthier version.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon – Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes for crispy edges.
• Spicy Sriracha Glaze – Add 1 tsp sriracha to the sauce for a kick.
• Pineapple Teriyaki – Stir in crushed pineapple for tropical sweetness.
• Teriyaki Salmon Skewers – Cube salmon and grill on skewers for BBQs.
• Vegan Option – Use tofu or tempeh with the same marinade.

Conclusion & Call to Action

There’s a reason this Delicious Teriyaki Salmon Recipe is a favorite worldwide. It combines bold flavor, simplicity, and nutrition in one irresistible dish. Whether you bake it on a busy Tuesday night or serve it with flair at your next dinner party, this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

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