Teriyaki Salmon and Rice

his Teriyaki Salmon and Rice recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami to your dinner table. Succulent salmon fillets are marinated and glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce, then served over warm, fluffy rice for a wholesome and nourishing dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a weeknight favorite for good reason. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers a great way to enjoy a healthy protein with a comforting starch. The homemade teriyaki sauce elevates the flavor without the need for complicated steps or exotic ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is both delicious and practical.

ingredients

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

• Salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• Soy sauce

• Brown sugar

• Garlic, minced

• Fresh ginger, grated

• Rice vinegar

• Sesame oil

• Cornstarch (for thickening)

• Cooked white or brown rice

• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

2. Mix a little cornstarch with water to form a slurry and stir into the saucepan. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens.

3. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour half of the teriyaki sauce over them. Let them marinate for 15–20 minutes.

4. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the salmon fillets for 4–5 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and caramelized.

5. Warm the remaining teriyaki sauce, if needed, and spoon it over the cooked salmon.

6. Serve the salmon over a bed of freshly cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, including marinating and cooking time.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a touch of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy teriyaki variation.

• Vegetable Addition: Serve with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute in place of regular soy sauce.

• Low Carb Option: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or serve over zucchini noodles.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the salmon and rice separately until warm, or reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to retain moisture. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the salmon may change upon thawing.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinate the salmon for at least 15–20 minutes, but not more than 1 hour to prevent the fish from becoming too salty.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, store-bought sauce can be used for convenience, though homemade offers a fresher and more balanced flavor.

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Both wild-caught and farm-raised salmon work well. Choose fillets that are fresh and firm to the touch.

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying it?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.

What rice goes best with teriyaki salmon?

Jasmine rice or short-grain white rice are traditional, but brown rice or even quinoa are healthy alternatives.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the teriyaki sauce can be made in advance, and the salmon can be marinated a few hours ahead.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well in meal prep containers and can be reheated easily for lunch or dinner.

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side on a hot grill.

What can I use instead of salmon?

You can substitute with trout, cod, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Does the sauce contain a lot of sugar?

The recipe uses brown sugar for balance, but you can reduce the amount or use a natural sweetener like honey if preferred.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Salmon and Rice is a simple yet elegant meal that combines nutrition, flavor, and ease of preparation. With a few pantry staples and minimal effort, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right at home. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner or planning ahead for the week, this recipe is sure to become a regular part of your culinary routin

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