Cooking can sometimes feel like a race against the clock, especially after a long day. That’s where this Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi comes in. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fits seamlessly into your busy schedule.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a meal that feels special. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply treat yourself, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dinner without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi
This dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights.
In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal that’s bursting with flavor.
The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze perfectly complements the tender salmon, while the sautéed sesame pak choi adds a delightful crunch.
It’s healthy, satisfying, and a fantastic way to introduce more greens into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
Juicy, flavorful, and never boring.
For this Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi, you’ll need:
Salmon fillets: Fresh, high-quality salmon is key. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and provides a buttery texture.
Teriyaki sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is the star of the dish. Look for a low-sodium option if you’re watching your salt intake.
Honey: A touch of honey enhances the glaze, adding a natural sweetness that balances the savory notes.
Olive oil: Perfect for cooking the salmon, it adds a subtle flavor and helps achieve that golden crust.
Pak choi: This leafy green is tender and mild, making it a great companion to the salmon. You can also use bok choy or spinach if you prefer.
Sesame oil: A little goes a long way! It adds a nutty flavor that elevates the sautéed pak choi.
Sesame seeds: These tiny seeds add a delightful crunch and a nutty aroma when toasted.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples help bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Green onions: Sliced green onions make for a fresh garnish, adding a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
Feel free to get creative!
For a spicy twist, consider adding sriracha to the teriyaki marinade.
All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience, ready for printing.
How to Make Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi
Cooking this Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi is a breeze.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Marinate the Salmon
Start by mixing the teriyaki sauce and honey in a small bowl.
This sweet and savory blend is what makes the salmon shine.
Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
Let them soak up those flavors for at least 15 minutes.
If you have time, marinating longer will deepen the taste.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, carefully remove the salmon from the marinade, but don’t toss that marinade just yet!
Place the fillets in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
You want the salmon to be golden brown and flake easily with a fork.
When it’s done, set the salmon aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add sesame oil and minced garlic.
Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant.
This step adds a wonderful aroma to your kitchen.
Just be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Pak Choi
Now, toss in the chopped pak choi.
Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it wilts down.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This leafy green adds a nice crunch and pairs perfectly with the salmon.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Drizzle the reserved teriyaki marinade over the sautéed pak choi and toss to combine.
Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
Now, plate the salmon alongside the sautéed pak choi.
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a beautiful finish.
And there you have it—a stunning dish that’s as tasty as it is healthy!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the marinating step; it’s crucial for flavor.
Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing to prevent burning.
Feel free to adjust the teriyaki sauce to your taste—add more honey for sweetness or sriracha for heat.
Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders for cooking the salmon evenly.
Shallow dish: Perfect for marinating the salmon; a glass or ceramic dish is ideal.
Spatula: Use a sturdy spatula to flip the salmon without breaking it.
Measuring spoons: Handy for precise ingredient measurements.
Variations
Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the sautéed pak choi for an aromatic twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute salmon with marinated tofu for a plant-based version that’s equally delicious.
Additional Veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the stir-fry for added color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Rice: Serve the salmon over a bed of fluffy jasmine or brown rice to soak up the teriyaki glaze.
Wine: Pair with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon.
Presentation: Garnish with extra sesame seeds and a wedge of lime for a pop of color.
FAQs about Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating. Frozen salmon can still be delicious when cooked properly.
What can I substitute for pak choi?
If pak choi isn’t available, bok choy or even spinach works well. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the salmon.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While the salmon is best fresh, you can marinate it a few hours in advance. Just cook it right before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi is perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out and enjoy it throughout the week!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Glazed Teriyaki Salmon with Sautéed Sesame Pak Choi is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy.
The vibrant colors and enticing aromas fill your kitchen, making it feel alive.
Each bite of tender salmon paired with the crunchy pak choi is a celebration of flavors that dance on your palate.
Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, this dish brings a sense of accomplishment.
It’s a reminder that healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying, making every meal a delightful experience.
A delicious recipe for glazed teriyaki salmon served with sautéed sesame pak choi, perfect for a healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups pak choi, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce and honey. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki mixture over them. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place the fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add sesame oil and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped pak choi to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drizzle the reserved teriyaki marinade over the pak choi and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Serve the salmon on a plate with the sautéed pak choi on the side. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for garnish.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha to the teriyaki marinade.
Substitute the pak choi with bok choy or spinach for a different flavor profile.
