Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish); Cooked rice (for serving)

Highlighted under: World Food Classics

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon, and it has quickly become a favorite in our household. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze pairs perfectly with tender, flaky salmon, creating a dish that's not only delicious but also quick to prepare. I enjoy serving it alongside a bed of fluffy rice and steamed vegetables, allowing all the flavors to shine through. This recipe provides a taste of Japan that is easy to enjoy any day of the week, making it perfect for busy evenings or special occasions.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:45:54.156Z

When I first tried making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a rich and flavorful dish. I experimented with different store-bought teriyaki sauces until I found one that balanced sweetness and umami perfectly. This made a world of difference in enhancing the overall taste of the salmon.

One tip I learned along the way is to marinate the salmon for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This not only infuses the fish with flavor but also helps to keep it moist and tender during the cooking process. Trust me, the results are absolutely worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Perfectly balanced flavors with a sweet and savory glaze
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights
A healthy dish packed with omega-3 fatty acids
Versatile—great with rice, salads, or stir-fried vegetables

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is the heart of this recipe, providing both sweetness and umami. The combination of soy sauce and honey not only tenderizes the salmon but also caramelizes beautifully during cooking, forming a glossy glaze. When selecting teriyaki sauce, look for one that has a balance of sweet and salty. If you prefer a homemade version, you can mix equal parts soy sauce and mirin with a bit of brown sugar, which will give you a fresh take on the classic flavor profile.

In this recipe, the sesame oil adds a fragrant nutty note. It’s crucial to use high-quality sesame oil, as it enhances the flavor of the dish significantly. Be mindful while cooking; too much heat can cause the glaze to burn rather than caramelize, so keep an eye on the skillet as the sauce thickens.

Perfecting Your Cooking Technique

When cooking salmon, the key is to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture. Start with medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear on the skin side, letting it cook for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the edges are golden and crispy. If it sticks to the pan, give it a little longer; the fish will naturally release once it's seared properly.

After flipping, reduce the heat to medium to gently cook the other side. Pouring the reserved marinade over the salmon not only adds flavor but also keeps the fish moist. Aim for a cook time of 3-4 minutes on this side, ensuring the salmon is just cooked through and still flakes easily. The internal temperature should reach about 145°F (63°C), where it still maintains a delicate, buttery texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooked rice (for serving)

These simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Teriyaki Salmon:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, and let them sit for at least 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes.

Add the Marinade

Carefully flip the salmon, and reduce the heat to medium. Pour the reserved marinade over the salmon and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Transfer the salmon to a plate, drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce if desired, and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with cooked rice and enjoy your meal!

This delicious salmon dish is ready to be savored!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding some vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the pan while cooking the salmon. They'll absorb some of the teriyaki glaze and make for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Japanese Teriyaki Salmon is incredibly versatile in its serving options. While it pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice, consider offering a side of quinoa for a nutty flavor. Stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas can complement the dish well; they add a nice crunch and vibrant colors that brighten up your plate. Don't forget to drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce on the rice for an added layer of flavor.

For a lighter option, serve the salmon atop a fresh salad featuring mixed greens, avocado, and cucumber. The crispness of the vegetables and the acid from a light salad dressing will balance the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce perfectly, creating a refreshing meal.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, store any unused salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently to prevent drying out; a quick reheat in a non-stick skillet over low heat with a splash of water can help maintain moisture.

For meal prep, consider marinating multiple salmon fillets at once. They can be stored in the marinade for up to 24 hours in the fridge, which allows the flavors to penetrate deeper. This makes for an even quicker meal solution during the week—simply cook from the refrigerator to skillet when you’re ready to enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of salmon?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?

Some brands offer gluten-free teriyaki sauces; just check the label or make your own using gluten-free soy sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

While it's best to enjoy teriyaki salmon fresh, you can marinate the salmon and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.

→ What side dishes pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad make excellent side dishes to complement teriyaki salmon.