Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon

Name: Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I always look forward to making this Global Flavors Japanese Teriyaki Salmon because it captures the essence of Japanese cuisine in every bite. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the rich flavor of the salmon, making it a family favorite. Preparing this dish is simple and requires just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this teriyaki salmon is always a hit on our dinner table.

Created by

Felicity Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:05:38.990Z

I remember the first time I tried making teriyaki salmon. The aroma filled my kitchen, and I was instantly transported to Japan. After some experimentation, I discovered that marinating the salmon for at least 30 minutes elevates the flavor tenfold, allowing the teriyaki sauce to seep in. It’s a simple technique that makes a world of difference!

Serving the salmon over warm jasmine rice, drizzled with extra sauce and garnished with sesame seeds, creates an inviting dish that looks as good as it tastes. My secret? A touch of fresh ginger in the marinade gives it an unexpected kick that we love!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation complete with minimal cleanup
Deliciously sticky teriyaki glaze that enhances the salmon's flavor
Perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive dinner party

      

Understanding the Marinade

The teriyaki marinade is what sets this salmon dish apart. The combination of soy sauce and honey not only provides a perfect balance of sweet and savory but also aids in tenderizing the salmon. Soy sauce offers depth and umami, while honey adds a caramelized sweetness when cooked. I always recommend using a high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor; the difference is noticeable. If you're looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar-free alternative, but remember this may affect the glazing result.

Garlic and ginger are essential aromatics in this recipe, enhancing the overall taste profile with their distinctive flavors. Fresh garlic should be minced finely, while fresh ginger enhances the marinade with a zesty bite that balances the sweetness. If fresh ingredients are unavailable, an alternative could be pre-minced garlic in a jar and ground ginger, but fresh is always my favorite for maximum flavor.

Perfecting the Grilling Technique

Grilling the salmon requires the right temperature and timing for the best results. Medium-high heat, roughly 375°F to 400°F, is ideal for cooking salmon fillets. This temperature ensures that the exterior develops a nice char without overcooking the interior. If using a grill pan, make sure it's preheated as well to achieve a good sear, and consider lightly oiling the pan to prevent sticking.

When grilling, it's important to watch for visual cues. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has a slightly opaque center. Allowing the salmon to marinate for the full 30 minutes (or longer) not only infuses the flavors but also helps prevent the fish from drying out during grilling. If you're grilling multiple fillets, ensure they are spaced apart on the grill to allow even cooking.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until combined.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on the stove.

Grill the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade and grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy with steamed jasmine rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce to the marinade, or include a splash of orange juice for a citrusy twist.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with a side of steamed jasmine rice, which absorbs the delicious glaze and complements the rich flavor of the fish. For added nutrition and color, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables such as bok choy or broccoli. Just toss them lightly in sesame oil or a splash of soy sauce for consistency with the main dish.

For a more vibrant presentation, I love garnishing with additional sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions. This not only adds a pop of color but also a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender fish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to two days. Be mindful that reheating can sometimes dry out the fish; I recommend gently reheating it in a skillet over low heat, covered to keep moisture in, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on a low setting in short intervals, checking frequently.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this teriyaki marinade can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week, ready to marinate fresh salmon fillets whenever you're set to cook. Freezing the marinated salmon is another good option; just ensure it’s sealed tightly in a freezer-friendly bag to prevent freezer burn, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

It pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a light salad.