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

Highlighted under: World Kitchen

I absolutely love making Japanese Teriyaki Salmon at home because it brings the vibrant flavors of the Far East right to my kitchen. With just a few ingredients, I can create a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce perfectly glazes the salmon, resulting in a delightful meal that’s slow-cooked to tenderness. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe makes every bite a celebration. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll be a regular part of your dining repertoire.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:49:34.507Z

When I first tasted teriyaki salmon at a local Japanese restaurant, I knew I had to recreate that umami-packed flavor at home. After several attempts, I discovered that letting the salmon marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor dramatically. It’s a simple step, but it truly transforms the dish into a restaurant-quality meal. I also like to grill it instead of pan-searing for that extra smoky char.

One of the best tips I can share is to use high-quality soy sauce, as it makes a significant difference in flavor depth. Balancing the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce can be adjusted to your taste, so feel free to experiment until it’s just right. I love serving this over jasmine rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a slice of lime!

You'll Love This Recipe Because
The savory-sweet teriyaki sauce is a flavor explosion
Glazed to perfection, the salmon stays moist and tender
It’s quick and easy for any weeknight meal or special occasion

Marinade Magic

The teriyaki marinade is not just a flavor enhancer; it also tenderizes the salmon. The combination of soy sauce and rice vinegar creates the perfect balance of acidity and umami that penetrates the fish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Allowing the salmon to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes is crucial, but if time permits, refrigerate it overnight for deeper flavor infusion. Just be cautious not to over-marinate, as the salmon can become too salty.

In this recipe, brown sugar plays a vital role beyond sweetness; it adds a caramelized depth when cooked. When grilling or searing the salmon, the sugars will caramelize, creating a beautiful glaze that's not only visually appealing but enhances the overall flavor profile. If you find yourself out of brown sugar, you can use honey or maple syrup as substitutes, but keep an eye on the cooking time as they caramelize faster.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the salmon skin-side down initially helps to lock in moisture, preventing the fish from drying out while also allowing the skin to crisp up nicely. If you prefer a skillet, make sure it’s well-heated before adding the salmon, as this helps to seal in the juices. A medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F, is ideal for achieving that perfect golden exterior while maintaining a moist interior.

As you brush the reserved marinade onto the salmon during cooking, be mindful of flare-ups if using a grill due to the sugars in the sauce. To prevent burning, move the salmon to a cooler part of the grill if flames arise, or reduce the heat slightly. The salmon is done once it flakes easily with a fork and has reached an internal temperature of 145°F. Letting it rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your teriyaki salmon.

Ingredients

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

Make sure to check all your ingredients before starting!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious teriyaki salmon.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and honey until the sugar dissolves.

Marinate the Salmon

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

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Grill the salmon skin-side down for 5 minutes.

Add Sauce and Finish Cooking

Brush the reserved marinade over the salmon. Flip the fillets and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flaky.

Serve

Remove the salmon from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.

Enjoy your homemade teriyaki salmon!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcook the salmon, as it can dry out quickly. A meat thermometer can help you achieve the perfect doneness.

Serving Suggestions

This teriyaki salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional Japanese-inspired meal, serve it with steamed jasmine rice or sushi rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add sautéed bok choy or stir-fried vegetables for a complete, colorful plate. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a side of quinoa salad with edamame and sesame for an added nutritional boost.

For an even more authentic experience, try serving the salmon with pickled vegetables or a side of miso soup. These light, refreshing flavors will enhance the richness of the salmon, creating an inviting balance on your dinner table that pays homage to Japanese cuisine.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers, store the salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, aim for a low heat to avoid drying it out; consider using a microwave with a cover to retain moisture, or reheating gently in the oven at 275°F until warmed through. You can also flake the salmon and use it in salads, wraps, or grain bowls for quick meals during the week.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this teriyaki salmon can be marinated ahead of time. Simply prepare the marinade on a Sunday, add the salmon, and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When you're ready to eat, just grill or pan-sear it for a fast, flavorful dinner that feels freshly made without the last-minute rush.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of fish?

Yes, you can use any firm white fish like cod or halibut, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can use tofu or tempeh marinated in the same teriyaki sauce.

→ Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, the teriyaki marinade can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

→ What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad.