This Mango Teriyaki Salmon is a wonderful blend of sweet and savory. The juicy mango sauce perfectly glazes the salmon, making it both tasty and pretty on the plate!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a colorful dinner that tastes like a tropical vacation? I like to pair it with rice and veggies for a quick and satisfying meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are key for this recipe due to their rich flavor. If salmon isn’t available, try using trout or even chicken breast for a different take. Just remember to adjust cooking time as needed.
Soy Sauce: This ingredient adds saltiness and depth to your sauce. If you need a gluten-free option, opt for tamari instead. Low-sodium soy sauce is also a great choice for keeping the dish lighter.
Honey or Brown Sugar: I love honey for its natural sweetness! However, if you’re vegan, maple syrup works well too, just remember it may slightly change the flavor.
Mango: Ripe mango gives a vibrant sweetness to the salsa. If mango isn’t in season, consider using pineapple or peach for a similar effect. Both fruits work well in tropical salsas!
Cilantro: This fresh herb adds brightness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using parsley or green onions for a fresh flavor twist.
How Do You Cook Salmon Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking salmon to perfection can be tricky, but with just a few simple tips, you’ll get it right! Here’s how:
- Heat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the salmon. It helps create a nice sear.
- Skin Side Down: Always start with the skin side down. This allows the skin to get crispy while the salmon cooks through.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. A good rule is to cook it for 4-5 minutes on one side and 3-4 on the other. It should flake easily but still be a little pink in the center.
- Glaze at the End: Brush the teriyaki sauce on during the last minute of cooking. This allows it to caramelize without burning.
With these techniques, you’ll serve up perfectly cooked salmon every time! Enjoy the cooking process as much as the delicious result. Happy cooking!
Mango Teriyaki Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cooked jasmine or basmati rice (for serving)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For the Mango Salsa:
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 small red chili or red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tbsp lime juice (plus extra wedges for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and delicious option that fits well into any busy schedule.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, mix together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Heat over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. If you’d like a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixed with water and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Season each salmon fillet with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the salmon fillets, skin-side down, in the skillet. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes until the skin is browned and crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for about an additional 3-4 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Glaze the Salmon:
In the last minute of cooking, brush the salmon generously with the teriyaki sauce, letting it slightly caramelize on the fish. Remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Make the Mango Salsa:
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, chopped chili or red chili flakes, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Gently mix to combine all the ingredients. This salsa adds a fresh, bright contrast to the rich salmon.
5. Assemble the Dish:
To serve, place a scoop of cooked rice on each plate. On top of the rice, set a salmon fillet. Pour any remaining teriyaki sauce around the salmon on the plate, then generously heap the mango salsa over the top of the salmon. Garnish with lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor!
6. Serve Immediately:
Enjoy your meal right away, appreciating the delightful blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that make this dish a standout! Bon appétit!
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Fish?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use trout or even chicken breast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will require a longer cooking time compared to fish.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you’re looking for an alternative to honey, maple syrup works beautifully as a vegan option. You can also use agave syrup, just be mindful that it may slightly alter the flavor of the sauce.
How to Store Leftover Mango Teriyaki Salmon?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, and freshen up with a little extra teriyaki sauce if needed.
Can I Prepare the Mango Salsa in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the mango salsa a few hours ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. However, it’s best to add the lime juice just before serving to keep the salsa vibrant and prevent browning.
