Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon

Name: Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love preparing Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon for dinner. The combination of ginger and soy sauce creates a vibrant glaze that infuses the salmon with incredible flavor. Whenever I make this dish, I'm always amazed at how easy it is to whip up such a gourmet meal in under 30 minutes. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe never fails to impress. The balance of sweet and savory keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:46:27.530Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together. I marinated the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce and ginger, and it worked beautifully, creating a sticky glaze that caramelized nicely in the pan. Using fresh ginger makes all the difference; you can really taste the bright notes in the final dish.

One of my favorite tips is to sear the salmon skin-side down first. This helps to achieve a crispy texture while the glaze develops its rich flavor. I often serve it with steamed rice and a side of vegetables for a complete meal that feels fancy yet is so simple to prepare!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A deliciously sweet and savory glaze that enhances the natural flavors of salmon.
Quick and simple preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh ginger adds an irresistible zing to the dish.

Essential Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

Achieving perfectly cooked salmon can be a challenge, but it all comes down to timing and temperature. When cooking the salmon in a non-stick skillet, keep the heat at medium-high to ensure a nice sear. The salmon skin should crisp up beautifully within about 6 minutes. Be attentive; overcooking can lead to dryness. When the edges start to turn golden brown, that's your cue to flip the fillets for an even cook.

To check for doneness without a thermometer, gently press the salmon with a fork. If it flakes easily but remains slightly translucent in the center, it's ready to go. The key is to pull it off the heat at just the right moment, as the residual heat will carry it to a perfect finish while it rests.

Understanding the Ginger Soy Glaze

The ginger soy glaze is what elevates this salmon dish from simple to sensational. Fresh ginger not only provides a zing but also balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with its natural sweetness and warmth. Each ingredient plays a vital role: honey adds sweetness while rice vinegar delivers a touch of acidity, cutting through the richness of the salmon. Together, they create a harmonious flavor profile that complements the fish beautifully.

When thickening the glaze with cornstarch, ensure you've mixed it with water beforehand. This will prevent clumps from forming when added to the hot marinade. Cook until the glaze has transformed to a glossy finish; this indicates that it's ready to coat your salmon without being overly sticky. It's essential to taste the glaze before serving; adjusting sweetness or acidity can make a significant difference.

Ingredients

Ginger Soy Glaze

4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Note:

Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, grated ginger, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Reserve a few tablespoons for basting later.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 10 minutes while you prepare your cooking surface.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Add the salmon skin-side down and cook for about 6 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes.

Thicken the Glaze

Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken and cook for another minute until the glaze becomes glossy.

Serve

Serve the salmon with the thickened glaze drizzled over the top. Enjoy with rice and steamed vegetables!

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for extra flavor and presentation!

Pro Tips

For an even more flavorful glaze, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the marinade. It pairs beautifully with the ginger and soy, adding a refreshing citrus note.

Ingredient Substitutions and Modifications

If you don’t have fresh ginger on hand, ground ginger can be used as a substitute, although fresh provides a more vibrant flavor. A 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger is equivalent to about a tablespoon of fresh ginger. For the soy sauce, low-sodium versions are available for those looking to reduce salt intake without sacrificing flavor. Gluten-free soy sauce or tamari can also be excellent alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.

If honey is not an option, maple syrup works well as a vegan substitute while still contributing sweetness. Additionally, you could add a splash of citrus juice, like orange or lime, to the glaze for a refreshing twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the fish from drying out. Alternatively, you can warm it in the microwave in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture. I recommend adding a few drops of water or a splash of broth to the container before microwaving to help keep the salmon moist.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider marinating the salmon ahead of time. Once marinated, you can freeze the fillets for up to two months. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for quick and easy weeknight dinners. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to penetrate the fish even deeper during marination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw it before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave nectar can work as excellent substitutes.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.

→ What sides pair well with this salmon?

Steamed broccoli, jasmine rice, or a simple green salad are great options!