This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a bright and flavorful dish that combines juicy salmon with a sweet and tangy orange teriyaki sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for any night of the week!
You’ll love how the zesty orange lifts the rich salmon—definitely a recipe that’ll make your taste buds dance! I enjoy serving it with rice or veggies for a tasty meal that’s easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh salmon is ideal for this dish, but you can substitute with trout or even chicken breasts for a different protein. If you prefer plant-based options, marinated tofu can also work well in this recipe!
Soy Sauce: Traditional soy sauce gives great umami flavor. If you’re looking to reduce sodium, use low-sodium soy sauce. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a good substitute, ensuring you don’t miss out on the taste!
Fresh Orange Juice: For the freshest flavor, squeeze your own oranges. However, bottled orange juice can work in a pinch. If you want to switch things up, try using pineapple juice for a different fruity twist.
Honey or Brown Sugar: I love using honey for its sweetness, but if you’re vegan, agave syrup or maple syrup can make a great substitute. Brown sugar can also add a rich caramel flavor!
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang to the sauce. If it’s not available, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, but use it sparingly as they have stronger flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can feel tricky, but it’s easier than you might think! Here are my tips for getting perfectly cooked salmon every single time:
- Always start with a dry fillet. Pat salmon dry with a paper towel to get that nice sear.
- Don’t move the salmon around in the pan; this helps it get a nice golden crust.
- Cook skin-side down first. This helps protect the salmon from drying out.
- Monitor the cooking time closely, flipping only once, so the fish stays tender and juicy.
- Remove the salmon from heat when it’s a little undercooked; residual heat will finish cooking it perfectly!
Using these tips and the ingredients mentioned, you’ll have a delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon that everyone will love!
Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Orange slices for garnish
- Cooked white rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of 25 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a delicious, colorful dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Orange Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, freshly squeezed orange juice, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This will be your flavorful orange teriyaki sauce. Set it aside for a moment.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet or pan over medium heat. While the oil heats, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and lightly season them with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets in the pan skin-side down. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving—this helps develop a nice golden sear.
3. Flip and Add Sauce:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is almost cooked through. Now, pour the prepared orange teriyaki sauce over the salmon. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir the cornstarch slurry into the pan, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the salmon beautifully.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the thickened sauce over the salmon fillets, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve your glazed salmon on a bed of steamed white rice, garnished with lovely orange slices on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful, bright Orange Teriyaki Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Always pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture!
How Can I Store Leftover Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to maintain its texture.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the orange teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using, and you may need to add a splash of water while reheating if it thickens too much.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari works great as a substitute. You can also use coconut aminos for a lower-sodium alternative that still packs flavor!
