Busy nights call for meals that are fast, flavorful, and satisfying—this Quick Teriyaki Salmon Recipe delivers all three in just 15 minutes. Tender salmon fillets are brushed with a homemade teriyaki glaze, baked to perfection, and ready to serve before you’ve even set the table.
This dish has an Asian-inspired twist thanks to the sweet, salty, umami-packed teriyaki sauce, which pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or crisp stir-fried vegetables. Whether you’re new to cooking salmon or you just want a speedy weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple, foolproof, and packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 15 Minutes from Start to Finish – Perfect for busy evenings.
- Big Flavor, Minimal Effort – A quick sauce delivers bold taste.
- Healthy & Balanced – Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Versatile – Works with a variety of sides and meal prep options.
Nutritional Benefits of Salmon & Teriyaki Sauce
Salmon is a powerhouse of nutrition, rich in protein and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids (learn more from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health).
Teriyaki Sauce, when made at home, allows you to control sodium and sugar levels. The combination of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic offers a balanced, flavorful coating without deep frying.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 teaspoons water (optional, for thickening)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Teriyaki Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for another minute until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels—this helps the glaze stick. Place fillets on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the Salmon
Brush salmon generously with teriyaki glaze. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 125–130°F (51–54°C).
5. Serve
Transfer salmon to plates, spooning extra teriyaki glaze over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
For a refreshing side, pair it with Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus or a light salad like Healthy Chickpea Salad with Feta and Fresh Tomatoes.
15-Minute Dinner Meal Plan Featuring Quick Teriyaki Salmon
If you love the idea of a fast, complete meal, here’s how to build a balanced plate around this teriyaki salmon:
1. Side Dish – Garlic Butter Green Beans
Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic and butter are ready in under 10 minutes.
2. Starch – Coconut Rice
Cook jasmine rice in coconut milk for a slightly sweet, creamy base that complements teriyaki sauce perfectly.
3. Fresh Element – Asian Cucumber Salad
Thin cucumber slices tossed in rice vinegar, sesame seeds, and a touch of sugar add crunch and brightness.
4. Optional Starter – Miso Soup
Instant miso paste, hot water, and sliced green onions create a quick, cozy starter.
For another fast salmon dinner, try Cajun Brown Sugar Salmon for a sweet-spicy twist.
Pro Tips for Success
- Double-Glaze – Brush once before baking and again after for extra flavor.
- Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and ginger make a huge difference.
- Don’t Overcook – Salmon is best when slightly underdone in the center; it will finish cooking from residual heat.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Teriyaki – Add sriracha or chili flakes.
- Citrus Teriyaki – Stir in orange juice for brightness.
- Pineapple Teriyaki – Add crushed pineapple to the glaze for tropical sweetness.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat – Gently warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C).
- Leftovers – Flake into fried rice or cold noodle salads for an easy next-day meal.
Internal Links for More Salmon Inspiration
- Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus – Light and spring-inspired.
- Cajun Brown Sugar Salmon – Sweet-spicy perfection.
- Easy Oven-Baked Salmon Fillet – Perfect for beginners.
- Easy Baked Salmon with Asparagus and Lemon Garlic Butter – Another quick one-pan option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
A: Yes, but homemade lets you adjust sweetness and sodium.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
A: Yes—pan-sear for 3–4 minutes per side, brushing with glaze as it cooks.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Quick Teriyaki Salmon Recipe proves that a healthy, flavorful dinner doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy restaurant-quality salmon with a sweet-savory Asian glaze that pairs with countless sides.
Serve it as part of a quick meal plan, use it for meal prep, or enjoy it on its own—it’s guaranteed to be a weeknight favorite.
