Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely adore making teriyaki salmon at home because it brings a burst of umami flavors right onto my dinner plate. The combination of sweet and savory is incredibly satisfying, and the glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up a meal that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. It's become my go-to recipe for impressing guests and treating my family to something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:37:34.890Z

When I first tried cooking teriyaki salmon, I was amazed at how simple it was to achieve that authentic flavor profile. The secret lies in the perfect balance of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, which creates a glaze that clings to the fish. I remember pairing it with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed broccoli, and it was a meal that everyone raved about.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can adapt the glaze to your taste by adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) taste just as good chilled in a salad the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory glaze that perfectly complements the salmon
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
Healthful dish packed with omega-3 fatty acids

      

The Art of Marinating

Marinating the salmon is a crucial step in this recipe that enhances the overall flavor profile. The combination of soy sauce and mirin not only adds depth but also helps to tenderize the fish, making each bite succulent. Be sure to let the salmon soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate the fish thoroughly. If you're short on time, a 10-minute marinade can work, but aim for longer if you can.

For a twist on the traditional marinade, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity sweetness or a dash of sesame oil for added richness. These variations can create an exciting depth of flavor while still keeping the essence of teriyaki intact. Keep in mind that the brown sugar balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, so it’s best not to reduce the sugar unless you are replacing it with something equally sweet.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking the salmon at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving that perfectly flaky texture. If your fillets are thicker than an inch, you may need to extend the baking time by a few additional minutes. It's vital to check the doneness by gently flaking the salmon with a fork; if it separates easily, it's ready. You might also want to broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes in the oven to get a beautifully caramelized glaze on top, adding not only flavor but also visual appeal.

When using parchment paper, make sure to lightly grease it to prevent sticking. If you find that the bottom of the salmon is not browning enough, consider flipping the fillets halfway through the baking time, to provide an even cook and color on both sides. Remember, the salmon continues to cook slightly even after it’s removed from the oven due to residual heat, so remove it just before it reaches your desired doneness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This teriyaki salmon shines when served alongside steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the excess glaze. You might also consider pairing it with roasted vegetables like asparagus or bok choy for a colorful, nutritious plate. Drizzling a bit of extra marinade on top of the vegetables before roasting enhances the dish's cohesion and flavor. I often enjoy adding a side of pickled radishes to bring a zesty contrast to the sweetness of the salmon.

For those looking to keep things fresh and exciting, you can experiment with different types of fish as a substitute. Miso-marinated cod could also work well in place of salmon or even chicken if your family prefers poultry. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and type of protein you choose. Additionally, if you're preparing this for meal prep, the cooked salmon can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to three days.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your teriyaki salmon:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger until the sugar dissolves completely.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the salmon. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Bake the Salmon

Transfer the marinated salmon to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving. Enjoy with rice or your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious Japanese-style teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a drizzle of sesame oil before serving. Additionally, try adding steamed vegetables in the last few minutes of baking for a complete meal.

Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the salmon. It not only brings a rich flavor to the plate but is also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. When selecting salmon, opt for wild-caught if available for the best flavor and environmental impact. Farmed salmon is often fattier but can be delicious when marinated well, so choose based on your preference.

Soy sauce, a key ingredient in the marinade, contains natural umami that enhances the salmon's flavor, making it more savory and satisfying. If you're looking for a lower-sodium alternative, consider using tamari, which is gluten-free and has a similar taste. Mirin adds sweetness and acidity, but if you are unable to find it, a mixture of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar can mimic its qualities.

Make-Ahead Tips

This teriyaki salmon is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can marinate and pack the salmon fillets in advance, allowing flavors to infuse deeply before you're ready to cook. Storing the marinated salmon in a zip-lock bag will save space and make for easy cleanup. Just be sure to cook it within 24 hours for the best results as the acidity from the marinade can eventually break down the fish.

Another make-ahead option is preparing the glaze. You can make a larger batch of teriyaki sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, not only can you use it for salmon, but also drizzled over stir-fries or grilled vegetables later in the week, making it a versatile addition to your pantry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skinless salmon fillets?

Yes, skinless salmon fillets will work just fine. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as skinless fillets may cook quicker.

→ What can I substitute for mirin?

If you don't have mirin, a mixture of water, sugar, and a little sake can be used as a substitute.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the salmon ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What are some good side dishes to serve with it?

Steamed vegetables, jasmine rice, or a simple salad pair well with teriyaki salmon.