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 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavors Co.

I absolutely love making this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home. It's one of those dishes that transports me right to my favorite sushi bar with every bite. The rich, sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the flaky salmon, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This recipe is not just easy to follow; it's also a great way to impress friends and family. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a regular on your dinner table!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-27T01:09:35.446Z

I remember the first time I tried teriyaki salmon; the combination of flavors was simply unforgettable. After experimenting in my kitchen, I found that marinating the salmon briefly in the teriyaki sauce elevates the dish exponentially. It not only infuses the fish with bold flavor but also helps keep it moist during cooking.

One of the little tips I swear by is to caramelize the edges of the salmon for a few minutes over high heat. This creates a wonderful texture and enhances the natural sweetness of the teriyaki sauce. Plus, serving it with steamed rice and a sprinkle of sesame seeds makes for a visually stunning plate!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The teriyaki glaze is a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes.
Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with omega-3 fatty acids.
This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The teriyaki sauce is the star in this dish, featuring a perfect balance of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, and tangy rice vinegar. The sauce not only adds flavor but also helps create a beautifully glossy finish on the salmon. An essential tip is to bring the marinade to a simmer after marinating to concentrate the flavors—just a few minutes on the stovetop can enhance the intensity of the sauce, making every bite irresistible.

For those who prefer a thicker glaze, consider simmering the teriyaki sauce longer until it reduces and becomes syrupy. This will not only improve the texture but also amplify the sweetness. If you're looking for a variation, try adding a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist or incorporating miso for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Salmon to Perfection

When cooking the salmon, using a non-stick skillet is crucial to prevent sticking and tearing the delicate flesh. Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the skin, which enhances the flavor and texture. You want to cook the salmon skin-side down first until it’s crisp and the edges look golden, about 4-5 minutes. This step ensures that the skin retains its crunch, providing a pleasing contrast to the tender meat.

When it’s time to flip the salmon, use a flexible spatula to gently lift it, preserving its shape. The key is to only flip once, as flipping too soon can lead to breakage. After cooking, the internal temperature should be around 145°F (63°C) for perfectly flaky salmon. Remove it from heat just as it flakes easily but is still moist—overcooked salmon can quickly become dry.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
2 green onions, chopped
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow to marinate for 10-15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, shaking off excess liquid. Add the salmon to the skillet skin-side down and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, brushing with the leftover marinade.

Garnish and Serve

Once the salmon is cooked through and has a nice glaze, remove it from the skillet. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can add a splash of sake to the marinade. Adjust the time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets to ensure they're cooked just right.

Serving Suggestions

This Japanese Teriyaki Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice, which absorbs the rich teriyaki glaze, making each bite flavorful. You can also serve it alongside sautéed bok choy or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the fish. For an authentic feel, add pickled ginger and wasabi on the side for an extra kick.

To elevate the meal further, consider adding a drizzle of the cooked teriyaki sauce over the rice and vegetables before serving. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall presentation and taste.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. If you prefer, you can add a splash of water or a bit of the marinade when reheating to maintain moisture and flavor.

For meal prep, consider marinating the salmon a few hours in advance. The longer it sits in the marinade (up to a day), the deeper the flavor will penetrate the fish. Just remember to keep the salmon chilled until you are ready to cook it. This is a great option for busy weeknights when you want a quick and wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly alternative. The flavor profile may shift slightly, but it will still maintain that sweet balance crucial for teriyaki.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade can introduce an exciting kick. Alternatively, trying different fish like trout or chicken can also be delightful; just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the proteins you choose.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice and sautéed vegetables pair well with this dish.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

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

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.