This Easy Asian Glazed Salmon is a tasty dinner that combines sweet and savory flavors. The salmon gets a delicious glaze made from soy sauce, honey, and garlic, making it irresistible!
Cooking this dish is a breeze, and in just about 20 minutes you’ll have a beautiful meal ready to enjoy. I love serving it with rice and veggies for a complete dinner that feels fancy but is super simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are ideal for this recipe. If unavailable, you can use frozen salmon, just ensure it’s fully thawed. I’ve also had success with trout for a different flavor.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works well to control salt levels. If you’re gluten-free, opt for tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Honey: Honey adds natural sweetness. If you prefer a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead.
Rice Vinegar: This balances flavors with a nice tang. If you don’t have rice vinegar, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work too, though they may be slightly stronger.
Sriracha: If you like heat, sriracha adds a nice kick! For less spice, skip it or use a milder chili paste. You can also adjust the amount to your preference.
How Do I Get the Salmon Skin Crispy?
Getting the salmon skin crispy can elevate your dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. This helps the skin crisp up.
- Place the salmon skin-side down without moving it for the first few minutes. This allows it to get nice and golden.
- Use a non-stick pan to prevent the salmon from sticking, making skin removal easier after cooking.
Remember, cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your fillets, so keep an eye on them for perfect results!
How to Make Easy Asian Glazed Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Lemon slices (optional, for serving)
- Steamed or sautéed greens such as bok choy or spinach (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at a quick dinner ready in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, sesame oil, and sriracha (if using). This flavorful mixture will be the glaze for your salmon.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the prepared glaze over the salmon, making sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate for about 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to an hour for more flavor.
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the salmon from the marinade (and discard the used marinade). Place the salmon skin-side down in the pan. Let it cook without moving it for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
4. Add More Flavor:
Gently flip the salmon fillets over and pour the remaining glaze over the top. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the salmon occasionally to allow it to thicken and caramelize slightly. The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork.
5. Serve It Up:
Remove the salmon from the heat and place the fillets on a bed of steamed white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch. If desired, serve with lemon slices on the side and some steamed or sautéed greens like bok choy or spinach.
Enjoy your delicious and easy Asian glazed salmon dinner! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating. You can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the sealed salmon in cold water for a quicker thaw (about 30 minutes).
How Long Can I Marinate the Salmon?
You can marinate the salmon for 15-20 minutes at room temperature for quick flavor, or refrigerate it for up to 1 hour for a more intense flavor. Avoid marinating longer than 1 hour, as the soy sauce can make the fish too salty.
What Should I Serve With Asian Glazed Salmon?
This salmon pairs beautifully with cooked white rice, but you can also serve it with brown rice, quinoa, or cauli-rice for a lighter option. For veggies, steamed bok choy, sautéed spinach, or a simple salad go great alongside!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated salmon on a lined baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through. Brush with additional glaze halfway through for more flavor!