Name: Oven Baked Teriyaki Salmon
Prep time: PT-483762H2M44S
Cook time: PT-483763H52M44S
Total time: PT-483763H52M44S
Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tsp sesame oil; 1 tsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; 1/4 tsp black pepper

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Short Description

Oven Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a delicious, healthy, and flavorful dish that combines the rich, tender texture of salmon with a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki glaze. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a special occasion, delivering a perfect balance of umami and freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick – This recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Healthy – Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and essential vitamins, making it a nutritious meal choice.
Flavorful – The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a perfect blend of sweetness, saltiness, and umami, complementing the natural richness of the salmon.
Versatile – You can serve this dish with rice, vegetables, or even a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Perfectly Baked – Cooking the salmon in the oven ensures a tender, flaky texture while locking in moisture.

Ingredients

Salmon fillets
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Honey
Garlic
Ginger
Rice vinegar
Sesame oil
Cornstarch
Water
Green onions
Sesame seeds
Black pepper

Directions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a ziplock bag. Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the salmon, ensuring each fillet is coated evenly. Let it marinate for 15-30 minutes for deeper flavor.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Transfer the marinated salmon fillets to the prepared baking sheet, skin-side down. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
Bake the Salmon: Place the salmon in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Baste for Extra Flavor: Halfway through baking, brush additional teriyaki sauce over the fillets to enhance the flavor.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the salmon from the oven, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce for some heat.
Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange or lime juice to the sauce for a tangy contrast.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Sugar-Free Alternative: Swap brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or use extra honey.
Grilled Version: Instead of baking, grill the marinated salmon over medium heat for a smoky flavor.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marination Time: 15-30 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap the cooked salmon in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but thaw it completely before marinating and baking for the best texture and flavor.

What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the flavors well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the salmon a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

You can substitute with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch to thicken the sauce.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but making your own allows you to control the flavor and avoid unnecessary additives.

Can I cook this salmon in an air fryer?

Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, depending on thickness.

How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?

Avoid overcooking, and baste with extra sauce during baking to retain moisture.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, try using trout, cod, or halibut as alternatives.

How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?

Reduce the amount of ginger and garlic in the sauce and serve with a mild side dish like mashed potatoes or plain rice.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a simple yet elegant dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. With its rich, caramelized teriyaki glaze and tender, flaky texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether served with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad, it offers a delicious and nutritious meal for any occasion. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors!

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