Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Broccoli

Teriyaki salmon with sesame broccoli is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and vibrant colors. The salmon, glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, is perfectly cooked, showcasing its tender texture. The sesame broccoli adds a crunchy contrast, making every bite satisfying.

This dish is not just about taste; it’s also visually appealing. The bright green broccoli, sprinkled with sesame seeds, complements the warm orange hue of the salmon. A side of fluffy rice rounds out the meal, making it a complete dinner option.

To make this dish, you’ll need fresh salmon fillets, teriyaki sauce, broccoli, sesame seeds, and rice. Start by marinating the salmon in teriyaki sauce for about 30 minutes. While it marinates, steam the broccoli until tender. Cook the salmon in a hot skillet until it’s flaky and caramelized. Serve it alongside the broccoli and rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch!

Why Teriyaki Salmon Is a Healthy Choice

While teriyaki dishes are often associated with takeout, this homemade version gives you full control over the ingredients—meaning you can enjoy all the flavor without the excess sugar, sodium, or additives. Salmon is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in omega-3 fatty acids that support heart and brain health, along with high-quality protein, B vitamins, and selenium. The teriyaki sauce, made with low-sodium soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, garlic, and ginger, delivers bold flavor while keeping things balanced. Sesame broccoli adds fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, while sesame oil contributes healthy fats and a toasty depth. Together, this dish offers a well-rounded, anti-inflammatory meal that’s as nourishing as it is crave-worthy.

Why This Dish Is Easy to Make

Despite its layered flavors, teriyaki salmon with sesame broccoli is surprisingly simple to prepare. The teriyaki sauce comes together in minutes with pantry staples, and the salmon can be cooked in a skillet or baked in the oven—whichever suits your schedule. The broccoli is quickly steamed or roasted, then tossed with sesame oil and a pinch of salt for a flavorful, no-fuss side. Everything can be made in under 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup and no special equipment required. It’s a great entry point for home cooks who want to explore Asian-inspired flavors without feeling overwhelmed.

A Great Option for Weekly Meal Prep

This dish is a meal prep superstar. Both the salmon and broccoli hold up well in the fridge for several days, and the teriyaki glaze actually intensifies in flavor over time. You can portion the salmon and broccoli into containers with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a week’s worth of satisfying lunches or dinners. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven, and the components can also be repurposed—think teriyaki salmon bowls, wraps, or even flaked over a salad with a sesame vinaigrette. It’s a flexible, flavorful foundation for a variety of meals throughout the week.

Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Broccoli

Recipe

 

Ingredients:

For the salmon and teriyaki glaze:

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)

  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)

  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds, green onions, lime wedges

For the sesame broccoli:

  • 3 cups broccoli florets

  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

  • Salt to taste

  • Optional: red pepper flakes or toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

  1. Make the teriyaki sauce: In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water, then stir into the sauce. Simmer until thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Set aside.

  2. Cook the salmon:

    • Pan-seared: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes, flip, and cook another 3–4 minutes. Brush with teriyaki glaze during the last minute of cooking.

    • Baked: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a lined baking sheet, brush with glaze, and bake for 12–15 minutes, broiling for the last 2 minutes for caramelization.

  3. Prepare the broccoli: Steam broccoli until just tender (about 4–5 minutes), or roast at 400°F for 15 minutes. Toss with sesame oil and a pinch of salt. Add red pepper flakes or sesame seeds if desired.

  4. Serve: Plate the salmon with sesame broccoli and drizzle with extra glaze. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: ~430

  • Protein: 35g

  • Fat: 24g (mostly healthy fats from salmon and sesame oil)

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Sugars: 9g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: ~500mg