This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a tasty dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors with a touch of soy. It’s simple to make and brings a burst of sunshine to your dinner plate!
You can whip it up in no time and feel like a chef! I love serving it with rice or veggies. It’s a fun way to make healthy eating delicious and bright! 🍊🍣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon Fillets: Fresh or frozen salmon works well for this dish. If salmon isn’t available, you can substitute with other fish like trout, or even chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance flavors without overwhelming sodium levels. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead. Coconut aminos is another great substitute that offers a unique flavor without gluten or soy.
Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh juice gives a vibrant flavor. In a pinch, bottled juice can work, but it may lack the freshness. I recommend adding a bit of zest from the orange peel for extra citrus flavor.
Honey/Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners provide a nice glaze. If you’re looking for a vegan option, stick with maple syrup. You could also use agave syrup for a lighter flavor.
Rice: While white rice is traditional, quinoa or cauliflower rice are healthier alternatives. They pair well with the sauce and offer a nice change!
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly?
A few tips make cooking salmon easy and delicious! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by ensuring the salmon is at room temperature before cooking. This helps with even cooking.
- Pat the fillets dry to achieve a nice sear. Moisture can prevent browning.
- Cooking skin-side down first helps protect the salmon and keeps it moist. Cook until just golden, and don’t flip too soon!
- Use medium heat for even cooking. It allows the inside to cook without burning the outside.
Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with perfectly cooked salmon that’s moist and full of flavor!
Orange Teriyaki Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking salmon)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you can have this delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon ready in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Orange Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fresh orange juice, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This will be your flavorful orange teriyaki sauce. Set it aside for a bit!
2. Heat the Pan:
Now, put a non-stick skillet on medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Let it get hot — this will help achieve a nice sear on your salmon!
3. Cook the Salmon Fillets:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel, which helps them sear beautifully. Place the fillets skin-side down (or the prettier side down) in the hot skillet. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want them golden and easy to flip!
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Now, gently flip the salmon over and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is fully cooked but still juicy inside. It should flake easily with a fork!
5. Add the Sauce:
Turn the heat down to medium and pour the orange teriyaki sauce around the salmon in the pan. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together!
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth and then add it to the mixture. Stir gently and let it cook for another minute until it thickens to your liking.
7. Coat the Salmon:
Using a spoon, drizzle the lovely glaze over the salmon to ensure it is well-coated in that delicious sauce!
8. Serve:
Place the cooked salmon on a plate over a bed of steaming white rice. This is where the magic happens!
9. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Your dish is looking enticing!
10. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your bright and flavorful Orange Teriyaki Salmon! It’s a delightful meal that combines sweetness and zest in every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but it’s important to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or to place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, try using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will provide a similar flavor profile!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the orange teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist, or microwave it in short intervals to warm through.
