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Fire up the grill for this tasty Grilled Teriyaki Salmon recipe. It’s an Asian-inspired dish with 2 lbs of salmon fillets. They’re marinated in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
This meal is ready in just 1 hour 20 minutes. It’s a healthy choice for summer grilling and easy for any weeknight.
The secret to its amazing taste is the homemade teriyaki marinade. It’s made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, sesame oil, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. This marinade makes the salmon moist and tender while grilling.
For a glossy glaze, the recipe uses arrowroot powder or cornstarch. It adds a delicious finish to the dish.
Key Takeaways
- This recipe features 2 lbs of salmon fillets marinated in a flavorful teriyaki sauce
- The marinade includes soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for an authentic Asian-inspired taste
- The dish is ready in just 1 hour 20 minutes, making it perfect for quick and easy summer grilling
- The recipe yields 5 servings, making it a great option for family meals or entertaining
- The salmon is grilled to perfection, with a 5-star rating from 2 reviews
Why This Grilled Teriyaki Salmon Recipe Is Perfect for Summer
When the weather gets warmer, nothing beats the smell of a summer grill. A grilled salmon fillet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is a top choice for the barbecue. It pairs well with a sweet and savory teriyaki marinade, making it a hit in the summer.
The Health Benefits of Grilled Salmon
Wild-caught salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your heart and brain. Grilling it adds a smoky flavor and keeps the nutrients in. Wild salmon is also better for you than farmed, being lower in harmful substances.
Why Teriyaki Marinade Works So Well
The teriyaki marinade’s mix of salty, sweet, and savory flavors goes great with salmon. It makes the fish tender and adds a caramelized crust when grilled. This recipe is perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick, impressive dinner.
Essential Ingredients for Teriyaki Salmon Success
To make delicious teriyaki salmon, you need the right ingredients. The main parts are:
- 2 lbs of fresh salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup of soy sauce, preferably low-sodium for a healthier option
- 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 2 teaspoons of sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder for thickening the marinade
Using fresh garlic and ginger makes a big difference. They add a lot of flavor to the teriyaki salmon. The mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and brown sugar makes a sweet and savory marinade. It caramelizes well on the grill.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salmon Fillets | 2 lbs |
| Soy Sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 2 tbsp |
| Sesame Oil | 2 tsp |
| Brown Sugar | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Fresh Ginger, chopped | 1 tbsp |
| Arrowroot Powder | 1 tsp |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a great teriyaki salmon. It will impress everyone.
Creating the Perfect Teriyaki Marinade
Making the perfect teriyaki marinade for grilled salmon is key to amazing flavor. It’s all about mixing sweet and savory just right. This simple marinade will make your salmon taste incredible.
Balancing Sweet and Savory Flavors
The secret to a great teriyaki marinade is mixing sweet and savory well. Start with soy sauce for a deep umami taste. Then, add rice vinegar for a slight tang.
Next, mix in brown sugar for sweetness that caramelizes on the grill. Add sesame oil for a nutty flavor. And don’t forget garlic and ginger for their aroma.
Marinade Storage Tips
You can make the teriyaki marinade 2-3 days ahead and keep it in the fridge. This lets the flavors blend, making your salmon taste amazing.
Optimal Marination Time
Marinate the salmon for 1-4 hours for the best flavor. This lets the teriyaki sauce soak into the fish. For even more flavor, marinate up to 8 hours, but be careful not to overdo it.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | 1 cup |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Brown Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger, minced | 1 teaspoon |
“The key to a fantastic teriyaki marinade is striking the perfect balance between the sweetness of the brown sugar and the savory notes of the soy sauce and sesame oil.”
Required Kitchen Tools and Equipment
To make the perfect grilled teriyaki salmon, you need some key tools and equipment. First, you’ll need a grill to cook the salmon right. You’ll also need a medium mixing bowl and a strong stirring utensil for the marinade.
For marinating the salmon fillets, use a large mixing bowl or a sealable plastic bag.
Measuring ingredients is crucial. You’ll need a set of measuring cups in different sizes. This includes 1/4 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, 1 tablespoon, and 1/2 cup. A sauce pan is also useful for thickening the marinade into a glaze.
Lastly, a fish spatula or a delicate spatula is best for flipping the salmon on the grill without breaking it.
With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious grilled teriyaki salmon. It’s sure to impress your guests.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Getting ready to grill teriyaki salmon is all about the steps. Let’s explore how to prep the salmon and mix the marinade.
Preparing the Salmon Fillets
Start by rinsing the salmon preparation under cold water. Then, pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade soak in better.
Next, feel for bones with your fingers and remove them with tweezers. Place the salmon on a clean cutting board. Now, you’re ready to mix the marinade.
Mixing the Marinade
In a bowl, mix the grilling preparation ingredients for the teriyaki marinade. These include brown sugar, soy sauce, pineapple juice, garlic, rice vinegar, ginger, and sesame oil. Once mixed, place the salmon in a bag or dish.
Pour half of the marinade over the salmon, making sure they’re coated. Save the rest for basting later.
Put the dish in the fridge for 1-4 hours. This lets the salmon soak up the marinade flavors. It’s a key step for a tasty grilled teriyaki salmon.
“The key to perfectly grilled teriyaki salmon is all in the marinade. By allowing the salmon to soak up the sweet and savory flavors, you’re guaranteed a mouthwatering result every time.”
Mastering the Grilling Temperature
To get the perfect grilled teriyaki salmon, you need to master the grill temperature. Preheat your grill to 450-500°F for the best results. This high heat ensures an even grill temperature and a delicious caramelized crust on the salmon.
But, keeping the grill temperature steady is key. If it gets too hot, the salmon might cook too fast on the outside but not enough inside. To avoid this, try keeping the temperature around 350°F. This lower grill temperature helps distribute even heat better, making the salmon tender and juicy.
- Preheat your grill to a high heat of 450-500°F for the initial sear.
- Once the salmon is on the grill, adjust the temperature to 350°F to maintain even cooking salmon.
- Monitor the temperature carefully throughout the grilling process to ensure consistent grill temperature and prevent overcooking.
Mastering the grill temperature is crucial for perfectly cooked salmon every time. The trick is balancing a high initial sear with a lower, more even heat for the rest of the cooking time.
Expert Grilling Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Salmon
Grilling salmon is an art that needs precise timing and technique. It’s about getting that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re experienced or new, these expert tips will help you cook salmon perfectly every time.
Timing Guidelines
The secret to great grilled salmon is timing. Start by placing your salmon fillets skin-side up on the grill grates. Let them cook for 7-8 minutes, then flip them gently with a sturdy fish spatula.
Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 130°F at the thickest part. This way, the skin gets crispy while the center stays moist and full of flavor.
Flipping Methods
- Use a sturdy, wide fish spatula to gently flip the salmon fillets. This will help prevent the delicate flesh from breaking apart.
- Avoid using tongs or forks, as they can pierce the salmon and cause it to dry out or fall apart.
- If the skin is sticking to the grill grates, use the spatula to gently loosen it before flipping.
- Let the salmon rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a perfectly moist and tender result.
Remember, the key to perfectly grilled salmon is a fully preheated grill and a light hand when flipping the fillets. With a little practice, you’ll be grilling salmon like a pro in no time!
How to Tell When Your Salmon Is Done
Cooking salmon to perfection is all about knowing the right signs to look for. The key is to avoid overcooking, which can result in a dry, flavorless fish. Here’s how to ensure your salmon doneness is spot-on every time.
The most reliable way to check if your salmon is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 120-125°F in the thickest part of the fillet. This range will give you a moist, medium-rare to medium result. If you prefer your salmon more well-done, cook it until the internal temperature reaches 145°F, as recommended by the United States Department of Agriculture.
Another telltale sign of perfectly cooked salmon is the flaking texture. When the salmon is done, it should easily separate into flaky, opaque pieces when gently pressed with a fork. Avoid overcooking, as this will result in a dry, tightly-bound fish.
- Ideal internal temperature: 120-125°F for medium-rare to medium, 145°F for well-done
- Flaky, opaque texture that easily separates with a fork
- Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture and flavor
By monitoring the internal temperature and observing the flakiness of your salmon, you’ll be able to achieve restaurant-quality results every time you fire up the grill or oven.
Sauce Thickening and Glazing Tips
To make your grilled teriyaki salmon even better, add a thick and shiny glaze. Thickening the marinade left over lets you create a caramelized layer. This layer keeps the salmon’s juices in and adds amazing flavor.
Creating the Perfect Final Glaze
To get the perfect glaze, heat the leftover marinade in a saucepan over medium-high heat. When it starts to bubble, mix in a arrowroot powder and water slurry. Simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens into a shiny syrup. Then, remove it from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to improve its texture.
With the right teriyaki glaze, sauce thickening, and arrowroot powder, your salmon dish will wow your guests and please your taste buds.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Remaining Marinade | As Needed |
| Arrowroot Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 1 tablespoon |
Learning to thicken and glaze sauces will take your grilled teriyaki salmon to new levels. It will look amazing and taste incredible in every bite.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings
When you serve your grilled teriyaki salmon, the right side dishes can make it even better. You can choose from many options like colorful vegetables or fresh salads. These choices will enhance the sweet and savory taste of your summer dish.
For a more filling meal, try pairing your salmon with garlic sesame green beans, glazed sweet potatoes, or garlic parmesan smashed potatoes. These sides offer a nice mix of textures and are both tasty and healthy.
For a lighter meal, consider a Greek cucumber tomato feta salad, a shaved Brussels sprout salad, or a cashew crunch salad with sesame dressing. These salads are full of fresh veggies and can balance the salmon’s richness, leaving you feeling light.
To add a special touch, garnish your salmon with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. These simple touches can make your dish look and taste even better, emphasizing its Asian flavors.
There are many side dish options to choose from, including side dishes, vegetable pairings, and salad accompaniments. You can mix and match to find the perfect sides for your teriyaki salmon. This way, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and tailored to your taste and dietary needs.
Storage and Leftover Guidelines
Enjoying your homemade Grilled Teriyaki Salmon doesn’t have to end when it’s over. Proper storage and reheating can help you enjoy every bite. This succulent seafood dish is worth savoring.
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your leftover salmon fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days. Don’t leave it out at room temperature for too long, as it can be unsafe.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat the salmon in a preheated 275°F oven for about 15 minutes. It should be warm through.
- Don’t microwave the salmon. It can dry out the fish and ruin the texture.
- Eat the reheated salmon within 2-3 days for the best taste and safety.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your Grilled Teriyaki Salmon for days. Proper food handling and storage are key to keeping your seafood leftovers safe and tasty.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Our grilled teriyaki salmon recipe is a hit, but you can make it your own. Want to change the cooking method or flavors? Or maybe you need to make it fit your diet? We’ve got tips for you.
Oven-Baked Teriyaki Salmon
For an easy oven version, preheat to 350°F. Bake the salmon for 14-16 minutes. This way, you get the tasty teriyaki flavor without the grill.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Salmon
Want a crispy outside? Try the air fryer! Follow the marinade steps, then air fry it according to your air fryer’s settings.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier choice.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Remember, adjust the sweetness and salt to your liking. It’s all about finding the flavor you enjoy most.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Rating | 5 out of 5 stars (19 reviews) |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 6 minutes |
| Total Time | 26 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
With these recipe adaptations, ingredient substitutions, and cooking methods, you can enjoy teriyaki salmon your way. It’s all about making it fit your taste and dietary needs.
“The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this teriyaki salmon is a summer grilling staple in our household.”
Conclusion
This grilled teriyaki salmon recipe is a perfect mix of sweet and savory. It’s a great summer dish with simple ingredients and easy steps. You’ll get a dish that tastes like it came from a restaurant.
It’s not just tasty; it’s also full of healthy proteins and omega-3s. This makes it a great healthy meal for any time.
Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick dinner, this grilled teriyaki salmon will wow everyone. The bold teriyaki and juicy salmon make it a treat for your taste buds. So, fire up the grill and enjoy a fantastic summer dish.
This easy recipe for grilled teriyaki salmon is a must-try. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to impress their family and friends. So, start grilling and enjoy the amazing taste of summer with this dish.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this grilled teriyaki salmon recipe?
The main ingredients are 2 lbs of salmon fillets. You’ll also need soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and arrowroot powder or cornstarch are used to thicken the sauce.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this teriyaki salmon dish?
This dish is quick, ready in just 20 minutes. The salmon maritates for 1-4 hours. Then, it takes 7-8 minutes per side to grill.
What are the health benefits of grilled salmon?
Grilled salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Wild-caught salmon is better for you, with fewer contaminants and more nutrients.
How can I ensure the teriyaki marinade has the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors?
Use a mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and brown sugar. This combination creates the perfect sweet and savory taste in the marinade.
What essential tools and equipment are needed to make this grilled teriyaki salmon?
You’ll need a medium mixing bowl and a large mixing bowl or ziplock bag. A grill, nonstick spray, spatula, and sauce pan are also key. Don’t forget measuring cups in 1/4 tsp, 1 tsp, 1 tbsp, and 1/2 cup sizes.
How should I thicken the remaining teriyaki marinade to create a glaze for the salmon?
Heat the marinade in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add an arrowroot slurry when it starts bubbling. Simmer for 2 minutes until it thickens. Let it cool before brushing it on the salmon.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with the grilled teriyaki salmon?
Pair the salmon with garlic sesame green beans, glazed sweet potatoes, or garlic parmesan smashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try Greek cucumber tomato feta salad, shaved Brussels sprout salad, or cashew crunch salad with sesame dressing.
How should I store and reheat any leftover grilled teriyaki salmon?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a 275°F oven for about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the fish moist.
