Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon

Name: Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced; 1 tablespoon garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 salmon fillets; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

When I first tried Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon, I was immediately taken aback by the delightful combo of flavors. The balance between the spiciness of ginger and the umami from soy sauce creates a dish that sings on the palate. I love how easy it is to prepare—just a marinade in the fridge and a quick sear on the stovetop. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, making it one of my go-to recipes for entertaining or simply enjoying at home.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:44:22.494Z

I remember the first day I made Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon. The kitchen filled with the warm scent of ginger and soy, enticing my family who couldn’t wait to dig in. I marinated the salmon for just 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate while ensuring the fish remained tender and flaky. The caramelization achieved while searing the salmon added an incredible texture that made the dish even more satisfying.

Not only does this recipe come together in about 25 minutes, but it's also versatile. I recommend serving it atop a bed of jasmine rice paired with steamed broccoli. This combination keeps the meal balanced and light, allowing the ginger-soy flavors to shine, while adding nutritious elements to your plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The zingy freshness of ginger adds a unique twist to the rich salmon flavor.
Quick marination helps the fish absorb the flavors without overpowering its natural taste.
It only requires a few ingredients, making it budget-friendly and accessible.

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade is the heart of the Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon recipe, where key ingredients like soy sauce and honey play vital roles. Soy sauce contributes a deep, umami flavor that complements the richness of the salmon, while honey adds a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness. Fresh ginger infuses a zesty kick, and garlic enhances the aromatic profile, creating a complex taste without being overwhelming.

Marinading the salmon for at least 15 minutes is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish. If you're short on time, even a quick dip of 5-10 minutes will impart some flavor, but for a more profound taste, aim for 30 minutes. For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime to the marinade for an extra layer of acidity.

Cooking the Salmon to Perfection

When cooking the salmon, achieving the right heat level is crucial. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. This will create a nice sear on the salmon, yielding crispy, golden edges while keeping the center tender and moist. If your skillet isn’t hot enough, the fish could stick and not develop that desirable crust—always test a small drop of water to see if it sizzles before adding the salmon.

Cooking time is key to ensuring perfectly flaky salmon. Each side typically requires about 4-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fillets. Look for golden-brown edges and a nicely caramelized surface. If any marinade remains in the bowl, you can brush it on the top side for added flavor while cooking, but be cautious not to burn it. I suggest using a fish spatula to flip the salmon gently to avoid breaking it apart.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Mix ingredients well until honey is dissolved for an even marinade.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Whisk until the honey is fully dissolved.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, ensuring both sides are well-coated.

Cook the Salmon

In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon!

Serve hot with your favorite sides for a delightful meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon ahead of time, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the salmon in the fridge for up to 2 hours. Just ensure you cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salmon to a sealed container to avoid any cross-contamination or odor absorption. After cooking, try to consume the leftovers within two days for the best quality. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm skillet to maintain moisture.

Freezing is also an option. If you freeze the marinated salmon, wrap it tightly in foil or a freezer-safe bag. Label it with the date and use it within three months for optimal flavor. To cook from frozen, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, allowing it to soak up the marinade flavors even more before cooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Steamed jasmine rice or quinoa provides a nutty base that soaks up the delicious glaze. For a refreshing crunch, consider serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar. If you want to add more greens to your plate, sautéed bok choy or steamed broccoli works well to enhance the dish's delicious flavors.

For those looking to shake things up, try substituting the salmon with other firm fish like tuna or swordfish, which can also thrive under the same marinade and cooking technique. Vegetarian options could include marinating tofu or tempeh using the same ginger-soy mixture for a plant-based version. Always adjust cooking times accordingly, as tofu cooks more quickly than fish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, any firm fish like trout or tuna would work well with this marinade.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad complement it perfectly.

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the marinade and refrigerate it for up to a week.