Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds

Introduction

Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds is a dish that beautifully combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with the sweet, savory, and umami-packed taste of teriyaki sauce. Originating from Japanese cuisine, teriyaki has become an internationally beloved flavor profile, known for its perfect balance of soy sauce, sugar (or honey), mirin, and ginger. When this glossy sauce coats tender, flaky salmon fillets, it creates a meal that is both comforting and restaurant-quality.

The addition of toasted sesame seeds adds nuttiness and a subtle crunch that enhances the overall flavor and texture. Whether you’re making this dish for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a showstopper on your table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. The teriyaki glaze is sticky and glossy, coating the salmon beautifully, while the sesame seeds add a wonderful earthy contrast. It’s one of those dishes that tastes like you ordered it at a Japanese restaurant, yet it’s simple enough to make at home.

I also love that it’s versatile—you can serve it with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad, making it perfect for both comforting and lighter meals. Plus, salmon is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, so this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Restaurant-quality flavor at home – You’ll impress guests and family alike.
• Balanced taste – Sweet, savory, salty, and umami all in one bite.
• Quick and easy – Takes less than 30 minutes.
• Healthy indulgence – Salmon is rich in nutrients, and sesame seeds add extra health benefits.
• Beautiful presentation – The glossy glaze and sesame sprinkle make it look elegant.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~400–430 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Japanese-inspired / Asian

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each, skin-on preferred)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil (for searing)
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
• 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar for substitution)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Garnish:

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp fresh green onions, sliced

Cooking Directions (Quick Overview)

1. Mix soy sauce, honey, mirin, garlic, and ginger to make teriyaki sauce.
2. Sear salmon fillets until golden on both sides, then remove.
3. Pour teriyaki sauce into pan, simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Return salmon to pan, coat with glaze.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Salmon

• Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk soy sauce, honey, mirin, garlic, and ginger.
• If you want a thicker glaze, add the cornstarch slurry.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Place salmon skin-side down and cook 4–5 minutes until crispy.
• Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

• In the same skillet, pour in the teriyaki sauce mixture.
• Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Coat the Salmon

• Return salmon to skillet.
• Spoon sauce over fillets and cook another 1–2 minutes until salmon is fully glazed and cooked through (145°F / 63°C internal temp).

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
• Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with:
  • Steamed jasmine rice or sushi rice
  • Stir-fried or steamed vegetables (broccoli, bok choy, or green beans)
  • Asian-style noodles or soba for a complete meal
• For presentation, drizzle extra teriyaki glaze over salmon and rice.

Recipe Tips

• Toast sesame seeds before garnishing for richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook salmon—it should be flaky but still moist.
• Adjust sweetness—use more honey for sweeter, or more soy sauce for salty-umami.
• Make extra sauce—it pairs beautifully with rice and veggies.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Teriyaki Salmon – Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
2. Citrus Teriyaki Salmon – Replace half the honey with orange juice and zest.
3. Sesame Teriyaki Glaze – Add 1 tsp sesame oil into the sauce for extra nuttiness.
4. Oven-Baked Version – Bake salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, brushing glaze halfway through.
5. Teriyaki Salmon Bowls – Serve salmon over rice with avocado, cucumber, and carrots for a poke-bowl style meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked salmon (without garnish) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to refresh sauce.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet
• Fish spatula (for flipping salmon without breaking)
• Small whisk (for sauce)

Conclusion

Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Seeds is a flavorful, elegant dish that brings together the best of Japanese-inspired cooking—glossy, sweet-savory teriyaki glaze with the nutty crunch of sesame seeds. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions. The balance of flavors makes it universally loved, and once you try it, you’ll want it on your weekly menu rotation.