Asian Salmon : This succulent salmon fillet marinated in a combination of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and fresh ginger, then baked or pan-seared to perfection for a quick weeknight dinner.
What Makes Asian Salmon So Irresistible?
Asian Salmon stands out for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. The rich, fatty salmon pairs beautifully with ingredients like:
- Soy Sauce: For that quintessential savory depth.
- Honey or Brown Sugar: To add a touch of sweetness that caramelizes during cooking.
- Garlic and Ginger: To elevate the flavor with a fresh and aromatic kick.
- Sesame Oil: Providing a nutty aroma that perfectly complements the other Asian flavors.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Asian Salmon
- Choose the Right Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon like sockeye or king for the best flavor. Farmed salmon is also an option but may be higher in fat.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s tender and moist. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should be 145°F (63°C).
- Skin On vs. Skin Off: Cooking salmon with the skin on helps retain moisture and flavor. If you prefer skinless salmon, be extra cautious to prevent drying out.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the marinade ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Variations to Try
- Miso-Glazed Salmon: Substitute honey with white miso paste and add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Spicy Korean Salmon: Incorporate gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a bold, spicy kick.
- Teriyaki-Style Salmon: Use a store-bought or homemade teriyaki sauce for an easy, flavorful alternative.
- Citrus-Inspired: Add orange or yuzu zest to the marinade for a refreshing citrus note.
How to Serve Asian Salmon
Asian Salmon is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some serving ideas:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The neutral flavor of rice complements the bold salmon marinade.
- Garlic Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with a bit of soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic for a savory side dish.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds color and crunch to your meal.
- Asian Slaw: Make a quick slaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light sesame vinaigrette for added freshness.
How to Store and Reheat Asian Salmon
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Reheat at 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely, reheating in short intervals to prevent overcooking.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating to ensure the marinade adheres well.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Try coconut aminos for a gluten-free option or tamari for a lower-sodium alternative.
How do I know when the salmon is done?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork, and the internal temperature should read 145°F (63°C).
Can I grill the salmon?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the fillets.
Asian Salmon
Asian Salmon : This succulent salmon fillet marinated in a combination of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and fresh ginger, then baked or pan-seared to perfection for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds salmon fillets, skin on
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons minced onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 3 cups water
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- A pinch of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
Instructions
- Make shallow cuts in the skinless side of the salmon fillets to help the marinade penetrate. Place the fillets skin-side down in a glass baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, minced onion, garlic, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
- Pour the marinade over the salmon, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. This step adds incredible flavor!
- While the salmon marinates, combine water, rice, and dill in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and cover.
- Let it cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork once done and keep warm.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the marinated salmon, uncovered, for about 30 minutes or until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Spoon the fluffy dill rice onto plates, top with the baked salmon, and drizzle some of that savory sauce over everything. Enjoy the flavor explosion!
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 341Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 71mgSodium 293mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 0gSugar 2gProtein 27g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Asian Salmon isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. From the fragrant aroma of garlic and ginger sizzling away to that first melt-in-your-mouth bite, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With these tips and variations, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.
Check my other salmon recipes:
