This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a delicious dish that’s both sweet and savory. The salmon is glazed with a tasty orange teriyaki sauce that brings big flavor to the table!
I love how quick and simple it is to make! Just marinate the salmon, bake it, and you have a delightful dinner in no time. It’s perfect with a side of rice or steamed veggies!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: You can use either skin-on or skin-off salmon fillets. Skin-on keeps the fish moist. For a different flavor, consider using trout or another firm fish.
Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh juice provides the best flavor, but you could use store-bought juice in a pinch. Just look for 100% juice with no added sugar.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is a great choice to control the saltiness. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Honey/Brown Sugar: If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a lovely substitute for honey. Brown sugar gives a deeper flavor, but feel free to adjust sweetness to taste!
Sesame Oil: Use toasted sesame oil for a richer flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable or canola oil, though it won’t have the same nutty taste.
How Can I Make Sure My Salmon Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but I’ve got a couple of tips to help you get it just right! First, let your salmon rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Check for doneness by gently flaking it with a fork. It should be opaque and flake easily.
- A good rule of thumb is to cook it for about 4-6 minutes per half-inch thickness. So if your fillet is an inch thick, aim for 12-15 minutes.
- If you’re unsure, a meat thermometer can help; the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
By keeping an eye on the time and appearance, you’ll have perfectly flaky salmon every time!
Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 1 lb salmon fillet (skin off or on according to preference)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1–2 oranges)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening sauce)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 12–15 minutes to bake the salmon. Overall, you’re looking at about 25–30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to make cleanup easier later.
2. Make the Orange Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Simmer the Sauce:
Let the sauce simmer for about 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to mingle. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened. Once done, remove it from heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Salmon:
Now it’s time to prepare the salmon! Place the salmon fillet on the baking sheet and generously brush it with the orange teriyaki sauce you just made.
5. Bake the Salmon:
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes. You can baste the salmon with extra sauce once or twice while it’s baking for even more flavor. The salmon should be cooked through and flake easily with a fork when done.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Once the salmon is fully cooked, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Spoon any remaining sauce over the top, then garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a little extra flavor and crunch.
7. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve the salmon immediately with a side of steaming white rice. You can sprinkle some more green onions over the rice if you’d like. Dive in and enjoy the delightful taste of your homemade Orange Teriyaki Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s important to thaw it first. The best way to thaw is to place it in the refrigerator overnight or submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Make sure to pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Other Citrus Juices?
Absolutely! While orange juice gives a wonderful sweetness, you can use lemon or grapefruit juice for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that the taste will change, so adjust the sweetness if needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the oven or microwave. Be cautious not to overcook it during reheating, as salmon can dry out quickly.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Salmon?
This Orange Teriyaki Salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over quinoa or with sautéed greens for a healthy twist!
