Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon

Name: Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Recipes

When I first attempted to make Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon, I never anticipated how quickly it would become one of my favorite weeknight dinners. The balance of savory soy sauce and zesty ginger gives the salmon an enchanting flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes, I can serve up a delicious dish that feels special every time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to add it to your regular rotation!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:48:21.976Z

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and this Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon truly showcases how simple ingredients can produce amazing results. I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma of ginger and garlic filled my kitchen, instantly making it feel warm and inviting. I also discovered that marinating the salmon not only boosts the flavor but makes it incredibly moist.

One tip I learned is to let the salmon sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Paired with steamed rice and green vegetables, this dish becomes a complete meal that friends and family rave about every time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The vibrant glaze combines the warmth of ginger with the umami of soy sauce.
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy nights without sacrificing flavor.
Healthy and satisfying, it’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to impress.

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade used in this Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon is the star of the show. The combination of soy sauce and honey creates a savory-sweet balance that not only enhances the flavor of the salmon but also helps to tenderize it. The ginger adds a warm and spicy depth, making the overall experience bright and exciting. If you're short on time, you can reduce the marinating time to just 10 minutes, but letting it sit for at least 15 minutes really allows those flavors to infuse.

If you love a bit of heat, consider adding a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to your marinade. This adds a delightful kick that pairs well with the sweetness of the honey and the salty depth of the soy sauce. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your spice preference—start with a little and taste before adding more.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

Getting the cooking time right is essential for perfectly cooked salmon. If your fillets are particularly thick, you may need an extra minute or two per side. Aim for a medium-high heat, since this will give you that nice sear on the skin while keeping the flesh tender and flaky. If using a non-stick skillet, there's no need for excessive oil; just a light coating will help prevent sticking while allowing that beautiful glaze to develop.

To check for doneness, look for the salmon to flake easily with a fork but still maintain its shine. Perfectly cooked salmon should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, look for the flesh to turn from translucent to opaque, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes depending on thickness.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

This dish is versatile and can be served over a bed of rice, quinoa, or alongside steamed vegetables. For an extra layer of flavor, you can drizzle a bit of sesame oil over your rice or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch. Alternatively, serve with a fresh cucumber salad to complement the richness of the salmon with a crisp, refreshing bite.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out. Freezing is not recommended as it may compromise the texture of the fish, but if you do choose to freeze, use within 1-2 months for the best quality.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon green onions, chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon to the pan skin-side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, then carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until cooked through.

Finish with Garnish

Remove the salmon from the heat and drizzle a little extra marinade over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. Also, consider pairing the salmon with steamed broccoli or bok choy for a nutritious side.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of sesame oil, a blend of olive oil and a dash of toasted sesame seeds can serve as a fitting substitute. While sesame oil adds a nutty depth to the dish, don't worry; the flavor will still be lovely with your alternative. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari can easily replace soy sauce without compromising on flavor.

For those who prefer a different protein, this marinade also works beautifully with chicken or tofu. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken will generally require longer to cook through, while tofu should be pressed and marinated for a similar timeframe to salmon.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This makes weeknight cooking even easier—just marinate your salmon fillets when you have a moment, and they’ll be ready to cook when you are. Having the marinade on hand also allows you to whip up a quick meal on those particularly busy days.

Additionally, consider portioning and marinating salmon fillets before freezing them. This way, you’ll have perfectly marinated salmon ready to thaw and cook on short notice. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw it before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as alternatives.

→ How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an internal temperature of 145°F.

→ Can this dish be grilled?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a grill basket or foil to prevent sticking.