Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Delight your taste buds with Orange Teriyaki Salmon—a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy baked salmon recipe features a mouthwatering orange teriyaki glaze that brings together the sweetness of orange juice and brown sugar with the umami of soy sauce. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish will impress your guests and leave you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of orange and soy sauce creates a unique glaze that enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is not only tasty but also good for your health.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy this dish over rice, salad, or as part of a larger feast—it’s adaptable to any meal plan.
- Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on short notice.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the salmon, ensuring it cooks evenly.
- Small saucepan: Perfect for simmering the glaze without spilling or burning it.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and making the cornstarch slurry smoothly.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 6 oz. Salmon Filets
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- 2 tsp Cornstarch
- 4 tsp Water
- 2/3 cup Orange Juice
- 1 tsp Orange Zest
- 1/3 cup Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tsp Ginger (minced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil
Optional Toppings
- Sesame Seeds
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Chopped Green Onions
How to Make Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water until smooth.
- Add all sauce ingredients to a small saucepan, including the cornstarch mixture.
- Bring the sauce to a low simmer over medium heat and cook for about 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to cool.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit while the sauce cools.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with lightly oiled aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Place salmon filets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Generously baste each filet with the teriyaki sauce, reserving about half for later use.
Step 4: Bake the Salmon
Place the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 14 minutes or until it is flaky and cooked through.
Step 5: Broil for Finish
Remove the salmon from the oven and baste again with reserved sauce.
1. Place salmon under the broiler for about one minute or until you achieve a lightly charred top.
Step 6: Serve Your Dish
Serve your delicious Orange Teriyaki Salmon over steamed rice. Garnish with optional toppings like red pepper flakes, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
How to Serve Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Serving Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a delightful experience that allows you to enjoy its rich flavors in various ways. Pair this delicious dish with complementary sides and garnishes to enhance your meal.
On a Bed of Rice
- Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a classic pairing that soaks up the teriyaki glaze.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Add lightly sautéed or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or snap peas, for a nutritious crunch alongside the salmon.
In Tacos
- Flake the cooked salmon into corn tortillas, then add slaw and avocado for an exciting twist on fish tacos.
Over Quinoa Salad
- Place the salmon on a colorful quinoa salad loaded with fresh herbs and veggies for a hearty and healthy option.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Sprinkle chopped green onions on top right before serving for an added burst of freshness and flavor.
Drizzled with Extra Sauce
- Serve with additional teriyaki sauce drizzled over the top for those who love extra flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Teriyaki Salmon
To achieve the best results with your Orange Teriyaki Salmon, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your dish.
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Choose Fresh Salmon: Using fresh or high-quality frozen salmon filets will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar in the glaze according to your taste preferences.
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Marinate Before Cooking: For more intense flavor, marinate the salmon in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before baking.
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Watch Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your salmon while it bakes; overcooking can result in dry fish. Aim for flaky but moist texture.
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Broil for Crispiness: Broiling at the end gives a delicious charred finish that adds depth to the dish.
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Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sesame seeds or red pepper flakes based on your preferred level of spice and crunch.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Teriyaki Salmon
Pairing side dishes with Orange Teriyaki Salmon can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the sweetness of the glaze.
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Coconut Rice: The creamy texture of coconut rice pairs wonderfully with teriyaki flavors, providing a tropical twist.
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Pickled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a crunchy contrast and helps cleanse the palate between bites.
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Garlic Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach with garlic brings earthy notes that enhance the savory aspect of the salmon.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the orange teriyaki sauce nicely.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting flavors that work well alongside your Asian-inspired meal.
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds texture and vibrant colors to your plate.
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Egg Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with eggs brings heartiness to your meal while enhancing its Asian theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe like Orange Teriyaki Salmon. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.
- Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the salmon can result in less flavor. Always allow your salmon to soak in the teriyaki glaze for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking salmon for too long can lead to a dry texture. Keep an eye on it and aim for about 14 minutes in the oven.
- Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can dull flavors. Always opt for fresh orange juice and ginger for the best taste.
- Ignoring the Sauce Consistency: If your sauce isn’t thick enough, it won’t coat the salmon well. Make sure to simmer it until it lightly thickens before using.
- Forgetting Garnishes: Skipping out on garnishes like green onions and sesame seeds can make your dish look plain. Always finish with fresh toppings for added flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Orange Teriyaki Salmon in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Orange Teriyaki Salmon
- Wrap salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Orange Teriyaki Salmon
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, covering it loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or sauce and gently reheat salmon for about 5 minutes, covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Orange Teriyaki Salmon that might help you during your cooking journey.
Can I use frozen salmon for this Orange Teriyaki Salmon recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating and cooking.
What sides pair well with Orange Teriyaki Salmon?
Serve this dish with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance flavors.
How do I know when my Orange Teriyaki Salmon is done?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I customize the glaze for my Orange Teriyaki Salmon?
Absolutely! You can add more spices or switch from soy sauce to tamari for a gluten-free option.
Final Thoughts
Orange Teriyaki Salmon is not only delicious but also versatile. This easy recipe allows room for customization, whether you prefer extra heat from red pepper flakes or different garnishes. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends!

Orange Teriyaki Salmon
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Orange Teriyaki Salmon, a perfect dish for any occasion. This easy baked salmon recipe features a mouthwatering orange teriyaki glaze that harmonizes the sweetness of fresh orange juice with savory soy sauce. Ideal for both quick weeknight meals and special gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy, loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Serve it over rice or salad, and impress your guests with its vibrant taste and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon filets (6 oz each)
- 2/3 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp ginger (minced)
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- 4 tsp water
- Optional: sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth.
- In a saucepan, combine orange juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, orange zest, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch mixture. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Line a baking sheet with oiled aluminum foil and place salmon filets on it.
- Baste the salmon generously with teriyaki sauce and bake for about 14 minutes until cooked through.
- Broil for one minute for a charred finish.
- Serve over rice and garnish as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon filet (170g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg