This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a tasty way to enjoy fish! It’s tender, flaky, and packed with sweet and tangy flavor from the orange sauce. Yum!
Cooking this dish fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma. I love serving it with some rice and steamed veggies for a perfect dinner! Who needs takeout? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are perfect for this dish due to their rich flavor and flaky texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, try trout or even chicken breasts for a different twist!
Soy Sauce: Using low-sodium soy sauce is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake. Coconut aminos can substitute for those avoiding soy altogether, offering a slightly sweeter flavor.
Fresh Orange Juice: For the best taste, fresh juice is ideal. If oranges aren’t available, bottled orange juice works, but ensure it’s 100% pure to avoid extra sugars.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both are great for sweetness. If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup can be a fantastic alternative that pairs well with the sauce.
How Do I Get Crispy Salmon Skin?
Getting that crispy skin on your salmon is all about the heat and cooking time. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start with dry salmon! Patting the fillets dry helps remove moisture that can make the skin soggy.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the oil. Once hot, add the fillets skin-side down and don’t move them for the first few minutes.
- Cooking skin-side down for 4-5 minutes ensures a beautifully crispy surface while the fillet stays moist.
With these tips, your Orange Teriyaki Salmon will be a hit at the dinner table! Serve it up and enjoy your meal.
Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish and Serving:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds
- Steamed white rice, to serve
- Steamed broccoli or greens, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, totaling around 20 minutes! It’s a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that nice crispy skin! Season the fillets lightly on both sides with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
2. Making the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, freshly squeezed orange juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and set aside.
3. Cooking the Salmon:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down (if using skin). Cook them for about 4-5 minutes without moving them, allowing the skin to get crispy and golden brown.
4. Flipping the Salmon:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets using a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and place them on a plate.
5. Making the Sauce Savory:
Reduce the heat to medium and pour the prepared orange teriyaki sauce into the same skillet. Stir occasionally and bring it to a simmer, letting those delicious flavors meld together!
6. Thickening the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker glaze for the sauce, stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
7. Bringing It Together:
Return the salmon fillets back to the skillet. Spoon some of the savory sauce over the salmon and let it heat through for about 1 minute.
8. Serving Time!
To serve, place a generous scoop of steamed rice on each plate, top with the salmon fillet, and drizzle additional sauce over the top. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch!
9. Complete the Meal:
Enjoy your Orange Teriyaki Salmon alongside some steamed broccoli or your favorite green vegetables for a wholesome and vibrant meal. Bon appétit!
Enjoy your delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or place the sealed fillet in a bowl of cold water for quick thawing. Pat it dry before cooking to achieve that crispy texture.
Can I Substitute the Honey?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a different sweetener, try using maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option. You can also use brown sugar, which gives a lovely caramelized flavor to the sauce.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Orange Teriyaki Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it on low until warmed through.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before using, and you can heat it up separately when you’re ready to cook the salmon.
