This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a tasty dish bursting with flavor! The sweet and tangy orange sauce perfectly coats the juicy salmon, making it truly irresistible.
I love how quick and easy it is to prepare. Just marinate, bake, and enjoy a delicious dinner that feels fancy without the fuss. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍊🐟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, try trout or even chicken breast for a different protein option. Just keep in mind that cooking times will vary!
Soy Sauce: I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt level balanced. You can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version, or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will still give great flavor!
Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice brightens up the dish. If oranges aren’t available, use lemon or lime juice for a zesty twist, or even bottled juice in a pinch, though fresh is always better.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey adds a nice sweetness, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup works well. You could also use agave syrup or even coconut sugar for a more complex flavor.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh garlic and ginger give wonderful depth, but in a hurry, you can use pre-minced versions from a jar. I find fresh really makes a difference though!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon to Keep It Tender?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and technique. Here are some tips for keeping your salmon tender and flaky:
- Preheat your pan properly. A hot pan helps achieve a lovely sear.
- Cook skin-side down first. This not only protects the delicate flesh but also gets that skin crispy.
- Avoid flipping too soon! Let it cook about 4-5 minutes before turning. Watch for the change in color!
- Use a thermometer! The ideal internal temperature is 145°F. When it reaches this temp, remove it from heat to prevent overcooking.
With these tips, you’ll serve up salmon that’s both delicious and perfectly cooked every time! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- For the Marinade and Glaze:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- For Serving:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 10-15 minutes to cook. Plus, it’s best to marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes, so plan for a total of about 40-60 minutes to get everything ready and cooked perfect!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fresh orange juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until everything is well combined. This will be your flavorful marinade and glaze!
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the orange teriyaki sauce over the salmon, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Preheat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and set aside the marinade to make your glaze later. Place each salmon fillet skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown color.
4. Make the Glaze:
While the salmon is cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat. If you want a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Glaze and Serve:
Once the salmon is cooked, brush the thickened orange teriyaki glaze over the top of each piece. Serve the salmon over a bed of cooked white rice.
6. Garnish:
Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top of the salmon for extra flavor and a lovely presentation!
7. Optional:
For an extra citrusy touch, serve with fresh orange slices on the side. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Orange Teriyaki Salmon dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating! Thaw the salmon overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure the flavors soak in well.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in This Recipe?
If you’re looking for a honey substitute, maple syrup is an excellent option for a vegan twist. You could also use agave syrup or brown sugar, adjusting the amount to taste, as some alternatives may be sweeter than honey.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the salmon gently in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat to maintain its moisture and prevent overcooking.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a good stir or reheat it gently before using, as it may separate slightly when chilled.