Grilled Teriyaki Salmon

Grilled Teriyaki Salmon is a savory and satisfying dish that features tender salmon fillets marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection. This recipe delivers a harmonious balance of smoky, sweet, and umami flavors, making it a delightful choice for both casual meals and special gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to prepare yet impressively flavorful. The marinade penetrates the salmon, giving it a deep, savory-sweet profile, while grilling adds a delicious charred finish. It’s healthy, simple, and versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it both accessible and convenient.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets
• Soy sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Water
• Sesame oil
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh grated ginger or ground ginger
• Arrowroot powder or cornstarch (for thickening)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and ginger to create the teriyaki marinade.
2. Place the salmon fillets in a resealable bag or dish and pour in half of the marinade. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 1 to 4 hours.
3. Preheat your grill to 450–500°F and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Remove salmon from the marinade and place on the grill, skin-side up. Discard used marinade.
5. Grill for 7–8 minutes, then carefully flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F.
6. Let the salmon rest for 10 minutes after removing from the grill.
7. While resting, heat the reserved marinade in a small saucepan. Stir in arrowroot slurry and cook until thickened.
8. Drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce over the grilled salmon and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 5
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1 to 4 hours
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes (minimum)

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Citrus flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of orange or lemon juice for a fresh zing.
• Tropical twist: Use pineapple juice in place of water in the marinade.
• Baked alternative: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 12–15 minutes if grilling isn’t an option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 275°F oven for 10 minutes or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate the salmon for 1 to 4 hours. This allows the flavors to develop without making the texture mushy.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, bottled sauce is a convenient alternative, though homemade offers fresher flavor and control over ingredients.

What sides go well with teriyaki salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a light salad pair wonderfully with this dish.

Should I remove the skin before grilling?

You can grill with or without skin. Skin helps hold the fillet together and prevents sticking, but can be removed after cooking.

How do I know the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily and reaches an internal temperature of 130°F.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Cool the salmon completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Is it necessary to boil the leftover marinade?

Yes, especially if it was in contact with raw salmon. Boiling makes it safe and thickens it into a glaze.

Can other fish be used in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute salmon with tuna, cod, or halibut.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can broil the salmon in the oven or pan-sear it as alternatives.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free.

Conclusion

Grilled Teriyaki Salmon is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that brings restaurant-quality results to your home kitchen. With a rich marinade and the smoky depth from grilling, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for any occasion.

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