Introduction

This Easy Orange Teriyaki Salmon recipe is your ticket to a restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes. The sweet and savory glaze, brightened with fresh orange juice, creates a perfectly caramelized crust on tender salmon fillets. It’s a simple, impressive dish ideal for busy weeknights. For another quick teriyaki favorite, try this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Casserole Ready in 30 Minutes.

Ingredients

This Delicious easy baked salmon comes together with a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and citrus notes. Gather these simple ingredients for the ultimate Orange Teriyaki Salmon.

• 4 (6 oz.) Salmon Filets
• 2 tsp Cornstarch
• 4 tsp Water
• 2/3 cup Orange Juice
• 1 tsp Orange Zest
• 1/3 cup Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
• 1 tsp Ginger, minced
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil
• Sesame Seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Red Pepper Flakes, for garnish (optional)
• Chopped Green Onions, for garnish (optional)

Timing

Prep Time	10 minutes
Cook Time	15 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: This delicious easy baked salmon recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, getting a flavorful meal on the table in well under 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Orange Teriyaki Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine fresh orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes; it will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 2 — Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin gets crispy and the glaze adheres properly. Place the fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly season both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

Step 3 — Marinate the Salmon

Brush or spoon a generous amount of the warm orange teriyaki glaze over the top and sides of each salmon fillet. Reserve about a quarter of the glaze for serving later. Let the salmon marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 4 — Bake the Salmon

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes, depending on thickness. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). For extra caramelization, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely.

Step 5 — Rest and Glaze Again

Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and let it rest on the pan for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. While resting, gently warm the reserved orange teriyaki glaze. Brush another light layer of the warm glaze over the top of each fillet for maximum flavor and shine.

Step 6 — Garnish and Serve

Transfer the glazed salmon to serving plates. Immediately garnish with finely chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. Serve the delicious easy baked salmon with your choice of sides, such as steamed rice and roasted vegetables, drizzling any remaining glaze on the side.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~380 kcal
Protein	~34 g
Carbohydrates	~18 g
Fat	~18 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sodium	~850 mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size. This delicious easy baked salmon is also a good source of vitamins B12 and D.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Swap: Use Tofu or Chicken — For a vegetarian option, use extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed) for a great texture that soaks up the glaze. Skinless chicken breasts or thighs also work beautifully with the orange teriyaki flavors.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the brown sugar or honey in the glaze with a sugar-free substitute like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol. Serve the salmon over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Ensure your soy sauce is a certified gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. This simple swap makes the entire dish celiac-friendly without sacrificing the savory umami base.
• Dairy-Free Note — This orange teriyaki salmon recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just double-check any pre-made teriyaki sauce or glaze you might use as a shortcut to confirm it contains no dairy derivatives.
• Low-Sodium Version — Use a low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, which are typically lower in salt. You can also reduce the soy sauce quantity slightly and boost flavor with a touch more fresh orange juice and grated ginger.
• Nut-Free & Seed-Free — Simply omit the sesame seeds from the garnish. The dish will still be packed with flavor from the orange teriyaki glaze and green onions.
• Less Sweet Glaze — If you prefer a tangier, less sweet profile, reduce the sweetener by half and add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance the acidity.
• Oil-Free Cooking — Instead of brushing the salmon with oil before baking, place it on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. The natural fats in the salmon will prevent sticking, and the glaze will provide plenty of moisture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Orange Teriyaki Salmon over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or cauliflower rice to soak up every bit of the delicious, easy baked salmon glaze.
• For a vibrant, healthy plate, pair it with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a simple side salad with a ginger-sesame dressing.
• This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining guests or a special date night at home.
• For a complete Asian-inspired meal, start with miso soup or edamame and finish with fresh fruit or a light scoop of green tea ice cream.
• Garnish generously with the fresh chopped green onion and sesame seeds just before serving to add color, crunch, and a final flavor boost.
• For easy, casual serving, consider flaking the baked salmon and adding it to grain bowls or lettuce wraps with extra veggies.

The sweet and savory notes of this mouthwatering orange teriyaki glaze make it a versatile centerpiece that pairs beautifully with both simple and sophisticated sides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using bottled teriyaki sauce, which can be overly salty and syrupy. Fix: Make a quick homemade glaze with fresh orange juice, soy sauce, and honey for balanced, vibrant flavor.
• Mistake: Overcooking the salmon, resulting in a dry, chalky texture. Fix: Bake just until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium; carryover heat will finish it.
• Mistake: Not patting the salmon fillets dry before seasoning. Fix: Use paper towels to remove surface moisture for better searing and glaze adhesion.
• Mistake: Adding the glaze too early, causing it to burn under high heat. Fix: Brush on the orange teriyaki glaze during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
• Mistake: Skipping the marinade step, leading to less flavorful fish. Fix: Marinate the salmon in half the sauce for 15-30 minutes to infuse it with citrus and umami.
• Mistake: Using a dark baking sheet that promotes over-browning on the bottom. Fix: Use a light-colored pan or line with parchment for even, gentle cooking.
• Mistake: Neglecting to zest the orange, missing a layer of bright aroma. Fix: Add fresh orange zest to the glaze or as a garnish for an essential oil punch.
• Mistake: Pouring all the glaze over the salmon before baking. Fix: Reserve some fresh glaze to drizzle over the finished dish for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.
• Mistake: Crowding the salmon in the pan, which steams instead of roasts. Fix: Space fillets at least an inch apart to ensure proper air circulation and caramelization.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Orange Teriyaki Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the salmon has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled salmon and glaze in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently in a covered oven-safe dish at 275°F until warmed through, or in the microwave at reduced power. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F for food safety. Garnish with fresh green onion and sesame seeds after reheating.

For best texture and flavor, we recommend enjoying this delicious easy baked salmon fresh. The citrus in the glaze can cause the salmon to become mushy if frozen for too long.

Conclusion

This Orange Teriyaki Salmon is a delicious, easy baked salmon recipe that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The mouthwatering orange teriyaki glaze, fresh green onions, and sesame seeds create a perfect weeknight meal. We hope you love it! Please leave a comment or rating, and check out our Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry with Mushrooms and Steamed Rice Recipe for another quick dinner idea.

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of fish for this orange teriyaki glaze?

Yes, this delicious orange teriyaki glaze works wonderfully on other firm-fleshed fish like cod or halibut. The baking time may need slight adjustment depending on the thickness of the fillet. The sweet and savory flavors are perfect for salmon and other types of seafood.

How do I know when the salmon is perfectly cooked?

The orange teriyaki salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The glaze will become sticky and caramelized around the edges. Avoid overcooking to keep the salmon moist and tender.

Can I make the orange teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the mouthwatering orange teriyaki glaze up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply whisk it again before brushing it onto your salmon. This makes preparing this delicious easy baked salmon even quicker.