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: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: International Culinary Magic

I love savoring a good meal, and this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon recipe has become one of my absolute favorites. The flavor combination of the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce paired with the tender salmon creates an unforgettable dining experience. It's incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, the beautiful presentation with a sprinkle of sesame seeds truly elevates the dish. I’m excited to share this amazing recipe that brings a touch of Japan to my kitchen!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:49:35.099Z

Trying out new flavors is something I always look forward to, and this teriyaki salmon truly surprised me. My first attempt was met with cheers at the dinner table. The marinade creates a perfect balance of umami and sweetness, and I found that letting the salmon marinate even just for 30 minutes can significantly enhance the flavor. A tip I learned: be sure to use low-sodium soy sauce to keep it balanced without overwhelming saltiness.

I've made this dish multiple times, experimenting with different sides, but it pairs exceptionally well with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. The key to perfecting this dish lies in not overcooking the salmon. If you pull it from the heat just as it's flaky, you'll achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave. I can't wait for you to try this!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Sweet and savory flavors in every bite
Quick preparation for busy weeknights
Mouth-watering presentation with minimal effort

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

The key to authentic teriyaki sauce lies in the balance of sweet and savory flavors. In this recipe, the soy sauce provides a deep umami base, while the brown sugar and mirin contribute sweetness and a hint of complexity. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, not only enhances the flavor but also adds a glossy sheen to the sauce, helping it cling beautifully to the salmon. Ensure you use a good-quality soy sauce and mirin to achieve the best flavor profile.

Incorporating fresh garlic and ginger elevates the dish further, offering aromatic layers that make every bite pop. You can adjust the amount of garlic and ginger to your liking, but be cautious not to overpower the delicate salmon. The marinade needs only 30 minutes in the refrigerator to penetrate the fish, allowing it to absorb those essential savory notes while still retaining its tender texture.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking salmon, achieving the ideal texture is vital. Overcooking can dry it out, resulting in a less enjoyable meal. A good rule of thumb is to cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side over medium-high heat until the fish has a slightly caramelized exterior, is opaque throughout, and flakes easily with a fork. Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the salmon from sticking and losing its beautiful presentation.

If you're uncertain whether the salmon is done, you can use a food thermometer; it should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Additionally, if you'd prefer a more pronounced teriyaki flavor, consider briefly basting the salmon with the marinade during the last minute of cooking. Just make sure to avoid any raw marinade for safety.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious teriyaki salmon experience:

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to have everything on hand before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your teriyaki salmon:

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Salmon

Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove salmon from marinade and place in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Drizzle with any leftover marinade if desired.

Enjoy your delicious teriyaki salmon with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of sriracha to the marinade. Also, consider using fresh herbs like cilantro to brighten the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This teriyaki salmon can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, making it an excellent option for meal prep. The longer the salmon sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it becomes. Just remember to cover the salmon tightly with cling film or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the salmon in a skillet with a splash of water to help maintain moisture, or gently microwave in short intervals until warmed through. This keeps the fish tender and prevents it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your teriyaki salmon over a bed of jasmine or brown rice, which will soak up the delicious flavors of the sauce. You can also add a side of sautéed vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only adds a nice visual touch but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Feeling adventurous? Experiment with topping the teriyaki salmon with a drizzle of spicy mayo or serve it inside a sushi roll. This dish is versatile enough to be served as a traditional main or reimagined in bite-sized portions for parties, allowing you to share a touch of Japan with your guests in a fun way.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ What sides pair well with teriyaki salmon?

Serve with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ How long can I keep leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of salmon?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time as chicken will take longer to cook.