Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a vibrant dish that combines sweet and tangy orange juice with rich teriyaki sauce. It results in a tasty glaze that makes the salmon melt in your mouth!
Cooking this salmon is super easy! I love serving it with rice and veggies on the side for a colorful and delicious meal. Plus, it always impresses guests without much effort! 🐟🍊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are best for this recipe, offering great texture and flavor. If salmon isn’t available, consider using trout or even chicken breast for a different twist! Just note that cooking times may vary with different proteins.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re gluten-free, look for tamari—it’s a great substitute that keeps the same flavor profile.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal for vibrant flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. If you want a sweeter taste, try using tangerine or mandarin juice instead.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Either option adds a sweet note to balance the sauce. If you’re vegan, maple syrup can serve as a great alternative for a natural sweetness.
Sesame Oil: This ingredient gives a nutty flavor. If you don’t have sesame oil, you can skip it or use a different oil, like olive oil, but you’ll miss that special touch.
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but it’s all about timing and temperature. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your skillet to medium-high heat; this is key for a nice sear.
- Start cooking the salmon skin-side down to create a nice crispy texture. Avoid moving it around for the first few minutes!
- Check for doneness after flipping by pressing the fish gently. If it flakes easily, it’s ready.
- Let the salmon rest a minute before serving. This helps it stay juicy!
With these tips, you’ll serve up a delightful meal each time! Enjoy your cooking adventures with Orange Teriyaki Salmon! 🍊🐟
How to Make Delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
For The Marinade:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 medium orange)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
For The Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For The Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Orange slices for garnish (optional)
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15-30 minutes to prepare and marinate the salmon, plus another 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you can have your Orange Teriyaki Salmon ready in about 30-45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, fresh orange juice, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil. This is your yummy teriyaki-orange marinade that will flavor the salmon beautifully.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable bag. Pour about 3/4 of the marinade over the salmon, covering it well. Make sure to save the rest of the marinade for the sauce! Let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, up to 30 minutes for more flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully remove the salmon from the marinade (letting any excess marinade drip off) and place the fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes without moving the fish, until it is golden brown.
4. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Gently flip the salmon fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through but still moist in the center. Once done, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
5. Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Glaze the Salmon:
Return the cooked salmon to the skillet briefly, spooning the thickened glaze over the fillets to coat them.
7. Serve the Dish:
Plate the salmon with a serving of cooked white rice. Drizzle any extra sauce over the top, and generously garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Add some orange slices on the side for a lovely, refreshing touch!
Enjoy your flavorful and glossy Orange Teriyaki Salmon with fragrant rice and vibrant garnishes! It’s sure to impress everyone!
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 it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour before marinating. Pat it dry to ensure the marinade sticks well.
Can I Make the Sauce Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly option. Also, ensure the soy sauce you choose is vegan, as some brands may contain additional ingredients.
How Long Can Leftovers Be Stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon.
What Can I Serve with Orange Teriyaki Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. For a veggie side, consider stir-fried or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a colorful and balanced meal!
