Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening); Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Cuisine Explorer Studio

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home because it brings the vibrant flavors of Japan right into my kitchen. The perfect balance of sweet and savory in the teriyaki sauce complements the richness of the salmon beautifully. With only a handful of ingredients and a quick cooking time, this dish has become one of my favorites for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. Plus, the beautiful caramelization on the salmon is as visually impressive as it is delicious, making it a standout dish any time.

Created by

Noemi Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:51:34.732Z

When I first tried making Teriyaki Salmon, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful it was. The key to a great teriyaki is to use quality soy sauce and fresh ginger, which creates a depth of flavor that truly shines through. I like to marinate the salmon for a bit to enhance the taste even more.

One tip I've discovered is to sear the salmon skin-side down first to get that crispy texture. It not only improves the dish's overall presentation but also adds a delightful contrast to the tender fish. This quick method makes it perfect for those hectic evenings when I still want something homemade and flavorful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Quick and easy recipe suitable for any night of the week
Rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids

      

Mastering the Teriyaki Flavor

The key to a successful teriyaki sauce lies in the balance of its ingredients. The combination of soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar establishes a sweet and tangy base that enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Fresh ginger and garlic add depth, creating an aromatic profile that complements the dish. Make sure to whisk the marinade thoroughly to ensure the honey fully dissolves, preventing any gritty texture that could detract from the glossy sauce.

When marinating the salmon, timing is crucial. A mere 10 minutes may seem short, but it’s enough for the flavors to penetrate the fish without compromising its texture. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidity from the vinegar can start to break down the salmon, leading to a mushy consistency. Keep an eye on your fish; it should look slightly opaque and have absorbed the marinade beautifully before cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, a non-stick skillet is your best friend; it prevents sticking and allows for easy flipping. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat until it is hot enough that a few drops of water sizzle and evaporate immediately. This ensures the salmon skin crisps up nicely, resulting in a delightful texture contrast against the tender flesh. Aim for a golden brown crust on the first side, which generally takes 4-5 minutes.

Flipping the salmon carefully is essential to maintain its juiciness. Use a wide spatula to gently turn the fillet, allowing the reserved marinade to enhance the flavor while it simmers. The addition of the cornstarch mixture will create a luscious, thick glaze; look for it to coat the back of a spoon and cling to the salmon. This technique not only elevates the dish visually but ensures a rich umami experience with every bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious dish:

Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Make sure to have everything prepped before starting!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Teriyaki Salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil until well combined. Reserve a few tablespoons for glazing later.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let sit for about 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove salmon from the marinade and place skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.

Glaze the Salmon

Flip the salmon and add the reserved marinade to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

Serve

Plate the salmon, drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce from the pan, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Enjoy your delicious homemade teriyaki salmon with steamed rice and vegetables!

Pro Tips

For an even more intense flavor, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and let the salmon marinate overnight.

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

If you’re out of rice vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but be mindful of the flavor profile shift; these alternatives will be less sweet. For a gluten-free version, tamari can replace soy sauce, maintaining a similar depth of flavor without the gluten.

For those who prefer a bit of heat, adding a teaspoon of Sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade can elevate the flavor and introduce a pleasant kick. Experimenting with these adjustments can personalize your teriyaki salmon experience while adhering to your dietary preferences.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To preserve the texture, it’s best to avoid reheating in the microwave, which can lead to a rubbery consistency. Instead, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional marinade to maintain moisture.

If you want to prepare ahead, marinate the salmon in the morning and let it sit in the refrigerator throughout the day. This allows the flavors to deepen even more. Alternatively, cooked teriyaki salmon freezes well; wrap it tightly in foil or freezer bags to enjoy at a later date. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use any firm fish, like trout or mahi-mahi, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

You can substitute salmon with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.