Flaky and tender, Baked Teriyaki Salmon brings a delightful taste to your dinner table. This recipe features a homemade teriyaki sauce that perfectly complements salmon fillets, creating a dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want a quick weeknight meal, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion. The standout quality of this recipe lies in its healthy ingredients and the ability to whip it up in just 25 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under half an hour.
- Flavorful Homemade Sauce: The teriyaki sauce is made from scratch, ensuring fresh flavors without preservatives.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and omega-3s, this salmon dish is not only tasty but nutritious too.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make extra portions to enjoy as leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to streamline the experience. Using the right equipment will ensure your Baked Teriyaki Salmon turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of the salmon while holding the teriyaki sauce securely.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly to create a smooth teriyaki sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate measurements, which guarantee consistency in flavor.
Ingredients
Flaky and tender salmon with a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce, baked to perfection for an easy, healthier dinner option.
For the Salmon
- 4 Skinless Salmon Fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 Green Onion (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- ⅓ Cup Low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ Cup Fresh orange juice
- 2-3 tablespoons Water
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 2 Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Minced fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (or to taste)
- ½ Lemon (juiced)
- ½ tablespoon Gluten-free flour
How to Make Baked Teriyaki Salmon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the salmon cooks evenly when placed in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients:
– ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
– ¼ cup fresh orange juice
– 2-3 tablespoons water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 garlic cloves (minced)
– 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– ½ lemon (juiced)
– ½ tablespoon gluten-free flour
Spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and place the skinless salmon fillets inside.
Step 3: Bake the Salmon
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the salmon fillets. Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until cooked through and flaky.
Step 4: Add Final Touches
Once cooked, remove the salmon from the oven. Spoon some of the thickened sauce from the baking dish over each fillet for added flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion. Enjoy your delicious Baked Teriyaki Salmon!
How to Serve Baked Teriyaki Salmon
Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and crunch.
- Carrots – Sweet, steamed carrots enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
- Snap Peas – Crisp snap peas provide a fresh contrast to the rich salmon.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Jasmine Rice – Fluffy jasmine rice absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice – A heartier option that adds a nutty flavor.
- Quinoa – High in protein, quinoa is a nutritious base for this dish.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro – Fresh cilantro will add an aromatic touch that complements the salmon.
- Basil – A sprinkle of basil can enhance the overall presentation and taste.
With a Side Salad
- Cucumber Salad – Refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp texture.
- Asian Slaw – A tangy slaw brings a zesty bite that balances the dish.
How to Perfect Baked Teriyaki Salmon
To ensure your Baked Teriyaki Salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Preheat your oven – Make sure your oven is fully preheated at 400°F to achieve even cooking.
- Check for doneness – Use a fork to test if the salmon flakes easily; this indicates it’s cooked through.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your homemade teriyaki sauce.
- Marinate for flavor – If time allows, marinate the salmon in the sauce for 30 minutes before baking for deeper flavors.
- Adjust spice levels – Feel free to customize the chili flakes according to your heat preference.
- Let it rest – Allow the salmon to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps retain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Teriyaki Salmon
Baked Teriyaki Salmon pairs well with many side dishes that can complement its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side.
- Stir-Fried Bok Choy – Quick stir-fried bok choy provides a crunchy texture and mild flavor that complements fish well.
- Coconut Rice – Creamy coconut rice adds sweetness and pairs beautifully with teriyaki flavors.
- Roasted Asparagus – Roasted asparagus offers a savory contrast and brightens up your plate.
- Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a soothing starter or light side dish.
- Cabbage Stir-Fry – A quick stir-fry of cabbage can add crunch while being healthy and low-calorie.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make mistakes when preparing Baked Teriyaki Salmon. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Ingredient Measurement: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an imbalanced flavor. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on your fish and remove it from the oven once it flakes easily with a fork.
- Ignoring Marinade Time: Skipping marinating time can result in less flavorful salmon. Let the fillets sit in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes before baking for maximum taste.
- Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Using regular soy sauce can overpower the dish. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep the flavors balanced and healthier.
- Overlooking Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can diminish presentation. Add these toppings just before serving for a beautiful finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Baked Teriyaki Salmon in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Teriyaki Salmon
- Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The salmon can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Baked Teriyaki Salmon
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of water or teriyaki sauce, cover, and cook for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Baked Teriyaki Salmon.
How do I ensure my Baked Teriyaki Salmon is flaky?
To achieve flaky salmon, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remove it from the oven as soon as it’s done cooking to prevent drying out.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just ensure they are thawed completely before marinating and baking them.
What side dishes pair well with Baked Teriyaki Salmon?
Baked Teriyaki Salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. These sides enhance its Asian-inspired flavors.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both options work well without compromising flavor.
Final Thoughts
Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a delightful blend of flavors that makes for an appealing dinner option. Its easy preparation allows you to customize it with different veggies or side dishes based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its versatility and delicious taste!
Baked Teriyaki Salmon
Baked Teriyaki Salmon is a delectable and healthy dish that transforms your dinner into an extraordinary experience. With tender, flaky salmon fillets glazed in a vibrant homemade teriyaki sauce, this recipe is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of fresh ingredients ensures every bite bursts with flavor, while the easy preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Serve it with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 4 skinless salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 2-3 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (or to taste)
- ½ lemon (juiced)
- ½ tablespoon gluten-free flour
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, honey, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, lemon juice, water, and gluten-free flour.
- Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray and place salmon fillets inside.
- Pour teriyaki sauce over the salmon and bake for 12-15 minutes until flaky.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet (170g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
