Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Introduction

Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a delectable combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, perfect for a wholesome and satisfying meal. With tender, flaky salmon fillets glazed with a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce, every bite delivers the perfect balance of flavors that’ll have you craving more. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress, offering a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy fish.

One of the things I love most about this dish is how simple yet flavorful it is. As the salmon bakes, the teriyaki glaze caramelizes, creating a mouthwatering sheen on the fish while infusing it with sweet and salty goodness. I remember making this for the first time for a family gathering, and it was such a hit that it’s now a go-to recipe for occasions both big and small.

What makes it even better is how customizable the glaze can be. You can tweak the sauce with a bit of extra ginger or garlic to suit your taste, or adjust the sweetness with honey or maple syrup. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for serving alongside steamed rice or roasted vegetables. I can almost guarantee that once you try Baked Teriyaki Salmon, it’ll become one of your favorites too—it’s that good!

Perfect For

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or a healthy dinner that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor. It’s ideal for anyone who loves salmon or is looking for a wholesome seafood recipe to add variety to their meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Sweet and Savory Glaze
  • The homemade teriyaki sauce provides a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that infuse the salmon with depth and umami. The sauce coats the fish perfectly, creating a caramelized exterior while allowing the natural richness of the salmon to shine through. With its slightly sweet notes from honey or brown sugar and a savory kick from soy sauce, it elevates the flavor profile in a way that’s both satisfying and delicious.
• Healthy Option
  • This recipe is a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthily without compromising on flavor. Salmon is loaded with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support brain health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. With minimal sugar and salt in the glaze, the dish is nutrient-packed and heart-friendly, making it a perfect option for those looking to make mindful meal choices.
• Easy to Make
  • If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal, this baked salmon recipe is for you. It’s quick and simple to prepare, requiring just 20 minutes to bake. The ease of brushing on the teriyaki glaze and placing the salmon in the oven means you don’t need to fuss with complicated steps or ingredients. The result is a tender, flaky salmon with an irresistible flavor.
• Flavorful
  • The teriyaki sauce beautifully absorbs into the salmon as it bakes, resulting in a perfectly seasoned piece of fish. Every bite is bursting with a delicious combination of umami, sweetness, and a savory finish, ensuring a delightful eating experience with each forkful. It’s a dish that impresses with its well-rounded, satisfying taste, making it the ideal go-to for a flavorful meal that doesn’t require much effort.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 300 calories.
• Key Nutrients Per Serving:
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Vitamin D: 25% of the recommended daily intake

Ingredients

Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, to thicken)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 tbsp green onions, sliced (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Salmon: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamin D, salmon is a nutritious and flavorful choice.
• Teriyaki Sauce: Made with soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, this homemade teriyaki sauce provides a balance of savory and sweet.
• Sesame Seeds: Adds a crunchy texture and a slightly nutty flavor to garnish the salmon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Teriyaki Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic, black pepper, and cornstarch (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for a couple more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Preparing the Salmon:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle them with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Brush the salmon generously with the cooled teriyaki sauce, ensuring the fillets are evenly coated.

Baking the Salmon:

1. Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
2. Halfway through baking, you can brush the salmon with more teriyaki sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve

Serve the baked teriyaki salmon on its own or over a bed of steamed rice, quinoa, or vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce if desired. It also pairs well with a fresh cucumber salad or steamed broccoli.

Additional Tips

• For a more intense flavor, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before baking.
• If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use olive oil, but sesame oil adds a unique, nutty flavor to the dish.
• For a slightly spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce or top the salmon with Sriracha sauce before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Ginger-Sesame Teriyaki
  • Elevate the flavor of your salmon patties with an aromatic twist by adding more grated ginger to the teriyaki sauce. This variation creates a spicy, warm, and fragrant note that complements the natural sweetness of the soy sauce. A dash of sesame oil can further enhance the sesame flavor, making the dish even more vibrant and full-bodied. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat and a deeper flavor profile.
• Low-Sodium Version
  • For a heart-healthier option, opt for low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos to cut down on the sodium content of this recipe. These alternatives deliver the same savory depth that soy sauce offers but with significantly less salt, making it a great choice for those monitoring their sodium intake or following a low-sodium diet. It’s a small swap that still yields a rich and flavorful result.
• Spicy Teriyaki Salmon
  • Spice things up by adding a tablespoon of Sriracha sauce to your homemade teriyaki sauce. The sweet and savory base of teriyaki will balance out the heat from the Sriracha, creating a perfect combination of flavors. For an even spicier kick, feel free to adjust the amount of Sriracha to your liking or add some red pepper flakes to the mix. This version is ideal for those who enjoy a little heat in their dishes.

Freezing and Storage

• Salmon: If you have leftover baked teriyaki salmon, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked salmon for up to 2 months. Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Special Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small saucepan
• Basting brush or spoon

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use pre-made teriyaki sauce?
A: While homemade is always best, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce as a shortcut if you’re short on time. Just be mindful of the sugar and sodium content in some store-bought varieties.

Conclusion

Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the richness of salmon with the savory-sweet notes of homemade teriyaki sauce. The fish’s natural oils absorb the sauce, creating a moist and tender meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. With its glossy, caramelized finish, Baked Teriyaki Salmon is an impressive main course that’s sure to impress at dinner time.

Not only is this dish incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile. Pair it with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced and delightful meal. The savory teriyaki flavor elevates the salmon, making it a family favorite for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Bake a fillet today, and let the delicious aromas fill your kitchen! Be sure to capture your dish on camera and share it on Instagram—don’t forget to tag me so I can share in the celebration of your cooking triumph. Happy cooking!