Teriyaki Salmon Recipe: Easy and Delicious Weeknight Dinner

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Teriyaki salmon is a favorite for busy weeknights, offering a delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors. With this recipe, you can have a tasty meal on the table in just 20 minutes. Whether you like your salmon pan-fried or broiled, this dish is simple to customize with your favorite sides like rice or veggies.

You’ll love how easy it is to make your own teriyaki sauce using common ingredients like soy sauce, honey, and garlic. No need for lengthy marinating—just a quick cook and you’re ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. This recipe is perfect whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook looking for a quick, healthy dinner option.

So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! Your family and friends will thank you for it.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make a delicious teriyaki salmon, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a list of what you need and some substitutes if you can’t find the exact items:

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  Salmon Filets: Fresh or frozen, make sure they are skinless.

  
  
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  Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth. You can use tamari for a gluten-free option.

  
  
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  Rice Vinegar: Gives a bit of tang. Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar works too.

  
  
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  Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness. Honey or brown sugar are good substitutes.

  
  
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  Garlic: Use fresh minced garlic. If you don’t have fresh, use garlic powder.

  
  
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  Ginger: Fresh grated ginger adds a zing. You can also use ground ginger.

  
  
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  Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor. Olive oil or vegetable oil can be used in a pinch.

  
  
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  Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce. Arrowroot powder or flour can also work.

  
  

Optional Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: For a crunchy texture.
• Green Onions: Adds fresh flavor.

Table of Ingredients and Substitutes

Ingredient	Substitute
Soy Sauce	Tamari
Rice Vinegar	Apple Cider Vinegar
Maple Syrup	Honey/Brown Sugar
Garlic	Garlic Powder
Ginger	Ground Ginger
Sesame Oil	Olive Oil/Vegetable Oil
Cornstarch	Arrowroot Powder/Flour

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on what you have at home. Happy cooking!

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade:

1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add olive oil and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

2. Marinate the Salmon:

1. Place salmon fillets in a large zip-lock bag.
2. Pour the marinade over the salmon.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat the Oven (if baking):

1. Set your oven to 400°F (204°C).

4. Cook the Salmon:

1. For baking, place salmon on a prepared baking sheet and pour the remaining marinade on top.
2. For grilling, set the grill to medium-high heat and cook each side for 4-5 minutes.

5. Optional Step – Thicken the Marinade:

1. Combine cornstarch with a little water.
2. Heat reserved marinade with cornstarch mix in a saucepan until thickened.

6. Serve:

• Enjoy your teriyaki salmon with steamed rice or veggies!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to enjoy teriyaki salmon. Here are a few ideas to try out:

Grilled Teriyaki Salmon

Instead of baking, grill the salmon. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place salmon on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side.

Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowls

Serve your teriyaki salmon over a bowl of steamed rice. Add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a complete meal.

Spicy Teriyaki Salmon

If you like a little heat, add a teaspoon of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to your teriyaki sauce.

Teriyaki Salmon Salad

Flake the cooked salmon and toss it with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce as a dressing.

Teriyaki Salmon Tacos

Use tortillas to make salmon tacos. Add shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a squeeze of lime. Drizzle some extra teriyaki sauce to finish off.

Side Dish Suggestions

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
• Asian Coleslaw: Crisp and refreshing.
• Noodles: Stir-fried noodles with veggies work well.
• Edamame: A light and healthy side.

Feel free to mix and match these variations and suggestions to make your teriyaki salmon meal just the way you like it!