Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Easy, healthy, gluten free and chock full of flavor, this Baked Teriyaki Salmon is the perfect dinner recipe. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, but delicious enough for a weekend date night in! With its savory teriyaki glaze, this dish suits various occasions and delights everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The homemade teriyaki sauce elevates the salmon with a sweet and savory profile that’s hard to resist.
• Nutritious Meal: Rich in protein and healthy fats, this recipe provides a wholesome meal option without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with rice and veggies or toss it into a salad for a different twist on your meal.
• Easy Clean-Up: Baking means less mess than frying or grilling, making post-dinner clean-up a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference when preparing your Baked Teriyaki Salmon. Here are the essentials you’ll need to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Silicone brush
• Cooking utensil

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like your teriyaki sauce without spills.
• Silicone brush: Perfect for applying sauces evenly on the salmon fillets.

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Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets (about 4 ounces each)
• 1 batch teriyaki sauce

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups cooked broccoli
• 1/3 cup diced scallion

How to Make Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

• If using previously frozen salmon, let defrost in the fridge overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare Teriyaki Sauce

• Prep your teriyaki sauce ahead of time.

Step 3: Arrange Salmon in Baking Dish

• Lightly oil the bottom of a baking dish to prevent any sticking.
• Cut your salmon into one-inch cubes if preferred. Cover with about half of the teriyaki sauce.
• Alternatively, keep the fillets whole and add them skin side down with half of the teriyaki sauce. Use a silicone brush to spread it evenly.

Step 4: Marinate (Optional)

• If you want to marinate, allow the salmon to sit for about 20 minutes to absorb some flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake for 12–18 minutes uncovered, depending on thickness. Cubed salmon cooks faster (about 10–14 minutes).
• Check at 10 minutes; they should flake easily with a fork.

Step 6: Broil (Optional)

• For additional crispiness on top, broil for just a couple of minutes if desired.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

• Toss or drizzle with remaining teriyaki sauce. Reserve some for serving over rice or veggies.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, and chopped scallions before enjoying!

How to Serve Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Baked teriyaki salmon is a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Salmon Bowls

• Use a base of cooked rice topped with the baked teriyaki salmon. Add steamed broccoli and sprinkle with scallions for a colorful, nutritious bowl.

Lettuce Wraps

• Wrap pieces of salmon in crisp lettuce leaves. Add shredded carrots and cucumber for crunch, along with a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.

Sushi Rolls

• Make simple sushi rolls by placing sliced salmon and vegetables like avocado and cucumber in sushi rice and rolling them up with nori. Serve with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping.

Salad Toppings

• Flake the salmon over mixed greens or spinach, adding cherry tomatoes, radishes, and a light sesame dressing for a refreshing salad option.

Rice Paper Rolls

• Roll the salmon with rice noodles and fresh herbs like mint and cilantro in rice paper wrappers. Serve with a sweet chili sauce for an Asian-inspired appetizer.

Teriyaki Salmon Sliders

• Place pieces of baked salmon on slider buns with avocado and spicy mayo for delicious mini sandwiches perfect for parties.

How to Perfect Baked Teriyaki Salmon

To ensure your baked teriyaki salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose fresh salmon: Fresh fish has better flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. Look for bright, moist fillets without any discoloration.

• Marinate adequately: Allowing the salmon to marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 20 minutes enhances its flavor. If you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step but marinating is recommended.

• Monitor cooking time: The thickness of your fillets determines how long they should bake. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes to prevent overcooking.

• Use a broiler if desired: For added texture, broil the salmon for the last couple of minutes to achieve a crispy top without drying it out.

• Reserve some sauce: Set aside some teriyaki sauce before marinating the salmon to use as a drizzle over your finished dish or side items.

• Add garnishes: Enhance presentation and flavor by sprinkling sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, or chopped scallions on top before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Teriyaki Salmon

Pair your baked teriyaki salmon with delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli
   A classic choice that adds green color and nutrients. Simply steam until tender-crisp.

2. Jasmine Rice
   The fragrant aroma pairs well with teriyaki flavors. Cook according to package instructions for fluffy rice.

3. Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing side made with thinly sliced cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar and sesame oil adds crunch.

4. Quinoa Pilaf
   Cooked quinoa mixed with sautéed vegetables offers a healthy grain alternative. Season lightly to enhance flavors.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness balances the savory teriyaki sauce beautifully. Toss cubed sweet potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

6. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup complements the dish’s Asian-inspired theme while adding umami depth to your meal.

7. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender provide a smoky contrast to the rich salmon.

8. Edamame Beans
   Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes for an easy yet protein-packed side dish that pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Baked Teriyaki Salmon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of this delightful dish. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not defrosting properly: If you’re using frozen salmon, be sure to defrost it in the fridge overnight for even cooking and better texture.
• Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on your salmon while it bakes. Overcooking can lead to dry fish; aim for a flaky texture by checking it at 10 minutes.
• Skipping the marinade time: While you can bake it right away, allowing the salmon to marinate for about 20 minutes enhances flavor greatly.
• Using too much sauce: Be cautious with the amount of teriyaki sauce. While flavor is key, too much can overpower the dish; use just enough to coat without drowning.
• Ignoring cooking times for different cuts: If you cut your salmon into cubes, they will cook faster than whole fillets. Adjust the baking time accordingly for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Time: Store baked teriyaki salmon in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers: Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Baked Teriyaki Salmon

• • Time: You can freeze baked teriyaki salmon for up to 2 months.
• • Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or airtight container.

Reheating Baked Teriyaki Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a piece of salmon on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add salmon and cover with a lid, heating for about 5 minutes or until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Teriyaki Salmon:

Can I use other types of fish for Baked Teriyaki Salmon?

Yes! While this recipe features salmon, you can substitute other firm fish like trout or halibut.

How do I know when my Baked Teriyaki Salmon is done?

The salmon should easily flake with a fork and look opaque throughout. Check at around 10 minutes of baking.

What sides pair well with Baked Teriyaki Salmon?

Delicious sides include steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I make my own teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade teriyaki sauce often tastes fresher and allows you to control ingredients better.

Final Thoughts

Baked Teriyaki Salmon is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This versatile dish works wonderfully for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences!