Sesame-Ginger Glazed Salmon
This Sesame-Ginger Glazed Salmon recipe offers a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner option featuring tender salmon fillets coated in a savory-sweet marinade with aromatic ginger and garlic.
For 2 servings
In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce (or Tamari), honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is your marinade.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour half of the marinade over the salmon, ensuring both sides are coated. Reserve the other half of the marinade for glazing later. Marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes (do not marinate salmon for too long as the acid can start to 'cook' it).
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Place the marinated salmon fillets, skin-side down if applicable, on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your fillets.
During the last 2-3 minutes of baking, brush the reserved marinade over the salmon fillets. For a more caramelized glaze, you can briefly switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving immediately. This salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcook: Salmon can dry out quickly. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) for perfectly flaky and moist fish.
- 2Skin-On vs. Skin-Off: If using skin-on salmon, place it skin-side down on the baking sheet. The skin will crisp up and protect the flesh from drying out, making it easier to handle after cooking.
- 3Marination Time: Stick to the recommended marination time for salmon. Longer marination can cause the fish to become mushy due to the acidity in the marinade.
- 4Make it a Meal: Serve this salmon with a side of brown rice or quinoa and a medley of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas for a complete and balanced meal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicier glaze.
Pan Seared MethodPan-Seared Method
Instead of baking, pan-sear the salmon. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes until crispy, then flip and cook for another 3-5 minutes, brushing with reserved marinade, until cooked through.
Citrus InfusionCitrus Infusion
Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lime zest to the marinade for a brighter, more aromatic flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is an excellent source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
High in Protein
A single serving of salmon provides a substantial amount of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety.
Immune-Boosting Ingredients
Ginger and garlic are known for their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to a stronger immune system and overall well-being.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using.
