Easy Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Easy Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a flavorful, fuss-free dinner that delivers restaurant-quality results in under 30 minutes. Tender, flaky salmon fillets are coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki glaze and baked to perfection — all with minimal prep and ingredients. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a healthy, protein-packed meal, this recipe is a keeper.

This dish is the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors. The teriyaki glaze, made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar, caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky glaze that clings to the salmon. Serve it over rice with steamed veggies or tucked into a rice bowl for a satisfying meal that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Sweet, savory glaze complements the salmon beautifully.
3. Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
4. Healthy, protein-rich, and omega-3 packed.
5. Great for meal prep and easy to reheat.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
• Soy sauce
• Honey or brown sugar
• Garlic (minced)
• Fresh ginger (grated)
• Rice vinegar or lemon juice
• Cornstarch (for thickening)
• Water
• Green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Low-sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the honey.
• Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Add veggies: Bake with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers.
• Teriyaki bowl: Serve over rice with edamame, avocado, and cucumber.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Stir into the sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until thickened. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon

Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon or brush teriyaki sauce over each fillet, reserving some for serving.

Step 5: Bake

Bake salmon for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

Brush with additional teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use center-cut salmon for even cooking.
• Don’t overbake — salmon is done when it flakes easily.
• Line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Fresh garlic and ginger make a big difference in flavor.
• Double the sauce for extra drizzle over rice or veggies.

How to Serve

Serve baked teriyaki salmon with steamed jasmine or brown rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad. It also works great in rice bowls, lettuce wraps, or on top of soba noodles for a complete, balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

Freeze cooled salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 300°F until warmed through. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

2. What type of soy sauce is best?

Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal to prevent the dish from becoming too salty.

3. Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead?

Absolutely — it keeps in the fridge for up to a week.

4. Do I need to marinate the salmon?

Not necessary, but you can marinate it for 15–30 minutes for deeper flavor.

5. Can I grill this instead of baking?

Yes, it grills well — just brush with sauce during cooking.

6. What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

You can use ½ tsp ground ginger, but fresh is more flavorful.

7. How do I know when the salmon is done?

It should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temp of 145°F (63°C).

8. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! The sweet sauce usually makes it a hit with kids.

9. Can I use the same sauce for other proteins?

Yes, it works great with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

10. Can I make this in the air fryer?

Yes, cook at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes depending on thickness.

Conclusion

Easy Baked Teriyaki Salmon is the perfect blend of healthy, quick, and flavorful. With just a few simple ingredients and a no-fuss method, you can have a delicious, restaurant-style dish on the table any night of the week. Whether served with rice and veggies or as part of a power bowl, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

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