Easy Asian Glazed Salmon Recipe: Healthy Dinner Option

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner that’s full of flavor, then look no further than this easy Asian glazed salmon recipe. Packed with rich umami flavors and a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes, this dish will leave your taste buds craving more. The great thing about this recipe is that it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect option for a weeknight meal.

Asian Salmon is one of the most versatile proteins out there, and when paired with Asian-inspired ingredients, it creates a delightful fusion of flavors that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this Asian glazed salmon will impress everyone at the table.

I first tried this recipe during a busy week when I was craving something healthy but delicious. After trying different variations, I settled on this simple yet satisfying version that combines a quick marinade with a luscious glaze. The result? A perfectly cooked salmon with a glaze that’s finger-licking good.

Let’s dive into how you can recreate this dish at home!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

• 2 x 6 oz skinless salmon fillets (or skin-on, depending on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or sesame oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Marinade/Glaze:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey for a lighter alternative)
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (optional, for an extra spicy kick)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening the glaze)
• 1 tablespoon water (to mix with cornstarch, if thickening)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted, if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons chopped scallions or green onions
• Lemon wedges (for a fresh citrus finish)

Instructions Asian Salmon Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade/Glaze

Start by preparing the marinade and glaze. In a bowl or small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), rice wine vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, Sriracha, and chili paste (if using). Stir well to combine the ingredients.

Optional: If you prefer a thicker glaze, mix the cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the marinade and heat over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir constantly until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency, which should take about 2–3 minutes. Set the glaze aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the glaze sticks properly. Brush each fillet lightly with olive oil or sesame oil to prevent sticking during cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cooking the Salmon

You have a few options for cooking the salmon: broiling, baking, or pan-searing. Let’s go through each method so you can choose your favorite!

Broiling/Grilling:

• Preheat your broiler or grill to high heat.
• Position the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
• Place the salmon fillets on a broiler pan or grill, skin-side down (if skin-on).
• Broil for 4–6 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.
• Optionally, rotate the fillets halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Once the salmon is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat.

Baking:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
• Bake for 10–15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
• To check for doneness, the salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Pan-Searing:

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
• Place the salmon fillets in the pan, skin-side down (if skin-on), and cook for 4–5 minutes.
• Flip the fillets carefully and cook for another 3–4 minutes on the other side until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through.
• Be cautious not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the salmon to steam rather than sear.

Step 4: Glaze the Salmon

Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the prepared glaze over the fillets. You can add some glaze before cooking and then again after cooking for extra flavor. If you’re using the glaze as a drizzle after cooking, give it a quick reheat in the microwave or on the stove to ensure it’s warm when you serve it.

Step 5: Let the Salmon Rest

Allow the salmon recipe to rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This ensures the juices redistribute and the glaze sets properly.

Serving Suggestions:

This Asian salmon recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Garnishes:

• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
• Scallions/Green Onions: Freshly chopped scallions bring a bright, sharp bite that contrasts nicely with the rich glaze.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing citrus zing to balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Side Dishes:

• Rice: A bed of white, brown, or coconut rice complements the rich, savory flavors of the salmon. For an Asian touch, try serving it with jasmine or sticky rice.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed or sautéed bok choy, broccoli, or Asian greens make for a light and healthy side.
• Noodles: Noodles, especially soba or rice noodles, are another great accompaniment. Toss them with a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce for extra flavor.

Recipe Notes and Tips:

• Salmon Doneness: To check for doneness, gently press the salmon with a fork. If it flakes easily, it’s ready. For a more accurate check, aim for an internal temperature of 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare and 145°F (63°C) for well-done salmon.
• Ingredient Substitutions:
  • Sweetener: If you don’t have brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can work well as alternatives.
  • Soy Sauce: You can substitute gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if you’re avoiding gluten.
  • Chili Sauce: Use sambal oelek, garlic chili paste, or even red pepper flakes if you don’t have Sriracha.
• Cooking Method Variations: If you prefer to use an air fryer, you can cook the salmon at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, making sure to check for doneness halfway through.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm the salmon in a microwave or on the stove over low heat.
• Crispy Skin: To get crispy salmon skin, make sure to cook the skin-side down first and avoid moving the fish too much while cooking.
• Avoiding Burning: Be cautious when cooking the salmon with the glaze, as sugars can burn quickly. Keep the heat moderate, and if broiling, watch carefully.

Nutritional Information:

Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Calories: 310
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g

This recipe is a balanced and nutrient-rich option, providing healthy fats from the salmon, a boost of protein, and the delicious flavors of the marinade and glaze.

Conclusion:

This easy Asian glazed salmon recipe and salmon asian rub recipe is the perfect quick and delicious meal for any night of the week. With its flavorful marinade and glaze, you get a tasty, healthy dish that everyone will love. Whether you broil, bake, or pan-sear, this recipe is simple to follow and can be customized to suit your taste.

So, next time you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner, give this recipe a try. It’s sure to become a family favorite! Let us know how it turns out, and be sure to check back for more tasty recipes.

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