Tender, flaky, and packed with savory-sweet teriyaki flavor, this easy baked teriyaki salmon is a foolproof recipe for a healthy and delicious dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as an impressive meal for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Healthy and flavorful: Packed with omega-3s and coated in a delicious homemade teriyaki glaze.
- Versatile: Pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Salmon fillets
- Soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
- Honey or brown sugar
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, grated or minced
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Optional garnishes: Sesame seeds, green onions, or lemon wedges
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare the teriyaki sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Heat over medium heat until simmering.
- Thicken the sauce: Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly stir the slurry into the simmering sauce, cooking until thickened (about 1-2 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the salmon: Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Brush generously with the teriyaki sauce, reserving some for serving.
- Bake the salmon: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Serve: Drizzle the reserved teriyaki sauce over the salmon and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for some heat.
- Citrus twist: Add a splash of orange or pineapple juice to the sauce for a fruity flavor.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Grilled option: Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky, charred flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain the salmon’s texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, thaw the salmon completely before cooking for even results.
2. What’s the best type of salmon for this recipe?
Atlantic, sockeye, or coho salmon are all great choices. Choose fillets with even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce offers fresher flavor and allows you to control the sweetness and saltiness.
4. How do I know when the salmon is done?
Salmon is fully cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the teriyaki sauce and marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes in advance, then bake when ready.
6. What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?
Serve with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, sautéed greens, or a fresh salad.
7. Can I cook this salmon in foil?
Yes, baking the salmon in foil helps lock in moisture and makes cleanup easier.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking sheet or cook in batches if necessary.
9. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute with olive oil or skip it entirely for a lighter flavor.
10. How can I make the sauce sweeter?
Add more honey or brown sugar to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
Conclusion
Easy baked teriyaki salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this salmon recipe delivers every time. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal!
Print
Easy Baked Teriyaki Salmon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Easy Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and quick-to-make dish. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully as it bakes, creating a delicious coating for tender, flaky salmon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz/170g each)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1 tbsp sesame oil or olive oil
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Teriyaki Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, honey (if using), garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Marinate the Salmon:
- Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Brush or spoon the teriyaki glaze generously over the fillets, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Optional: For a caramelized finish, broil the salmon for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the baked salmon with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Notes
- For a homemade teriyaki sauce, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 tsp grated ginger. Heat until slightly thickened.
- This recipe works well with other fish like cod or trout. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.