Introduction

Few dishes strike the perfect balance between flavor, health, and elegance like Teriyaki Grilled Salmon with Sesame Seeds. This recipe marries the delicate richness of salmon with the sweet-salty notes of teriyaki sauce, all finished with a light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for crunch and nuttiness.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a healthy weeknight meal, or simply looking for a quick recipe that feels gourmet, this dish is a showstopper. The teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the salmon a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist, tender, and flaky.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s effortless yet impressive. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like something straight out of a fine-dining restaurant. The teriyaki sauce enhances the natural richness of the salmon without overpowering it, while sesame seeds add both texture and visual appeal.

It’s also a nutrient powerhouse—salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and vitamins, making it as wholesome as it is delicious. Plus, grilling adds a smoky depth that you can’t achieve with regular stovetop cooking.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it’s the perfect harmony of flavor, health, and convenience. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, teriyaki offers a lighter yet deeply satisfying taste. The grilled finish makes it ideal for summer cookouts, yet it’s elegant enough to serve for special occasions.

It’s also versatile—pair it with rice, noodles, or fresh veggies, and it instantly becomes a balanced, complete meal. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes marinating)
• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 27–30 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): ~380 kcal
  (Based on 6 oz salmon fillet with teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds.)

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired, Asian

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing the grill)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted for garnish)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped (optional garnish)

For the Teriyaki Marinade/Glaze:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine) or substitute with honey + rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, optional for thicker glaze)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade to use as glaze later.

Step 2: Marinate the Salmon

1. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.
2. Pour marinade over salmon and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes (do not over-marinate to avoid overpowering the fish).

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).
2. Brush grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Salmon

1. Remove salmon from marinade and pat lightly with paper towels to prevent flare-ups.
2. Place salmon skin-side down on the grill.
3. Grill for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
4. In a small saucepan, heat reserved marinade. Add cornstarch slurry if a thicker glaze is desired. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Garnish and Finish

1. Brush salmon with warm teriyaki glaze.
2. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions.

How to Serve

• Serve over steamed white rice or jasmine rice.
• Pair with sautéed or grilled vegetables like bok choy, asparagus, or broccoli.
• Add pickled ginger or cucumber salad for a fresh contrast.
• Drizzle extra teriyaki glaze over the top before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t marinate salmon for longer than 30 minutes—it can break down the fish.
• Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes for extra nutty flavor.
• For indoor cooking, use a grill pan or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
• Always let salmon rest for 2–3 minutes after grilling to lock in juices.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Salmon: Add 1 tsp sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange juice or pineapple juice to the marinade for a fruity flavor.
• Teriyaki Salmon Bowls: Serve salmon flaked over rice with veggies, avocado, and drizzle of spicy mayo.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Sesame Crusted Salmon: Coat salmon in sesame seeds before grilling for an extra-crunchy crust.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing (uncooked): Marinated salmon can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before grilling.
• Freezing (cooked): Store cooked salmon in freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Special Equipment Needed

• Outdoor grill or indoor grill pan
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan (for glaze)
• Tongs or fish spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I bake instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.

Q2: What’s the best type of salmon to use?
Atlantic salmon, sockeye, or king salmon work beautifully. Choose fillets with even thickness for even cooking.

Q3: Can I make this ahead?
Yes. You can marinate the salmon up to 30 minutes ahead, or make the teriyaki glaze in advance and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Q4: Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes, but homemade gives a fresher, richer flavor.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Grilled Salmon with Sesame Seeds is the ultimate blend of simplicity, health, and bold flavor. Juicy salmon caramelized with sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, finished with nutty sesame seeds, makes for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Whether you’re serving it for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress. With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy a gourmet-quality meal packed with nutrients, flavor, and texture.