Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 green onions, chopped for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: World Taste Studio

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. The savory and slightly sweet teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, creating a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for any occasion. I find it incredibly rewarding to whip up this dish alongside a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables, as the vibrant flavors all meld together so well. This recipe has become a staple in my household, not only for its flavor but also for how quickly it comes together. I guarantee that this dish will impress anyone sitting at your dinner table.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:16:04.650Z

When I first tried making teriyaki salmon, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it turned out. The perfect balance of soy sauce, honey, and ginger coats the salmon, providing a flavor that is both satisfying and exciting. I learned that marinating the fish for even just a short time enhances the overall taste, and I like to make extra sauce to drizzle over my rice.

One of the most delightful aspects of this dish is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak the sweetness or add a kick of spice depending on what you're in the mood for. When served with crispy vegetables and fluffy rice, it becomes a complete meal that's not only healthy but also a joy to prepare.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich umami flavor with a sweet and tangy glaze
Quick to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile: pair with rice or fresh veggies for balance

Mastering the Teriyaki Sauce

The key to a delicious teriyaki sauce lies in balancing the flavors of sweetness and umami. Using a combination of soy sauce and honey provides not only a rich flavor but also a beautiful glaze when cooked. Be sure to bring your sauce to a simmer and watch for it to thicken; this process usually takes only about 2 minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry. Cook it just long enough to achieve a glossy texture, as overcooking can result in a gummy sauce.

Ginger and garlic play crucial roles in elevating the taste of your teriyaki sauce. Freshly grated ginger gives a zingy freshness that pairs well with the richness of the salmon. When you add minced garlic, aim for a powerful but not overpowering aroma—roughly one tablespoon should suffice. If you’re out of rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy effect. However, adjust the quantity slightly to ensure the right acidity.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

For the best results, start cooking your salmon skin-side down in a preheated non-stick skillet. Medium-high heat works wonders here, typically around 375°F (190°C). Cooking the salmon for 4-5 minutes on the skin side allows it to crisp up nicely. Be careful when flipping the fillets; a gentle spatula can prevent the salmon from breaking apart. If you notice the edges appearing golden, it’s time to turn them over.

After flipping the salmon, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the fillets and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes. This technique helps the sauce to coat the salmon evenly and intensify its flavor. Look for the salmon to turn opaque and flaky; this visual cue indicates that it’s cooked through. If you’re unsure, use a fork to gently test the fish in the thickest part, ensuring it flakes easily without falling apart.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 green onions, chopped for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Salmon

Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip and pour the teriyaki sauce over the fillets. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Pro Tips

For added richness, you can broil the salmon for a minute or two after cooking it in the skillet. This will enhance the caramelization of the teriyaki glaze, giving you that restaurant-style finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your teriyaki salmon with steamed rice creates a comforting foundation. Consider using jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant touch. A simple sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions elevates the visual appeal and adds a crunch that complements the tender salmon. If you prefer a lighter meal, a fresh garden salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the richness of the dish.

For a meal that’s bursting with color and flavor, stir-fried vegetables are a fantastic side. Choose bright, vibrant veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Not only do they provide a satisfying crunch, but their natural sweetness pairs harmoniously with the teriyaki glaze. Sauté these vegetables quickly over high heat for about 3-4 minutes—this method retains their crispness and nutrients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re looking to save time, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply reheat it gently over low heat before serving. This will not only enhance its flavors but also make weeknight dinners a breeze. Remember to give it a good stir before use, as it may thicken when chilled.

Leftover teriyaki salmon can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) until warmed through to avoid drying it out. You could also flake the salmon and toss it in a salad or serve it over a grain bowl, adding a refreshing twist to the leftovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, you can use other types of fish like trout or chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make teriyaki sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make the recipe gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.