Asian Baked Salmon: A Tasty, Simple Recipe
In order to create a rich, savory, and somewhat sweet glaze, classic Asian ingredients such as soy sauce, honey, ginger, and sesame oil are combined in this delectably straightforward Asian baked salmon recipe. While baking preserves the salmon moist and soft, the marinade infuses the salmon with its natural flavors. This dish is ideal for a special occasion or a quick midweek supper. It can be served with stir-fried vegetables, rice, or noodles for a full meal.
The Reason This Recipe Is Effective
The ingredients in this Asian baked salmon recipe enhance the fish’s inherent flavor. The sweetness of the honey counterbalances the salt, the fresh ginger and garlic bring warmth and flavor, and the soy sauce adds depth and umami. Many cuisines with Asian influences require the nutty, fragrant character that sesame oil provides. The salmon will cook fast and evenly while retaining moisture if it is baked at a high temperature.
Here’s a recipe card in table format for the Asian Baked Salmon:
Recipe Card: Asian Baked Salmon
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Salmon Fillets | 4 (about 6 oz each) | Skin-on or skinless, as preferred |
| Soy Sauce | 1/4 cup | Regular or low-sodium |
| Honey or Brown Sugar | 2 tablespoons | Adds sweetness and aids in caramelization |
| Rice Vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Adds acidity and balance |
| Fresh Ginger, grated | 1 tablespoon | Provides warmth and zest |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves | Adds depth and aroma |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tablespoon | Adds a nutty flavor |
| Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil | 1 tablespoon | Helps coat the salmon and prevents sticking |
| Red Pepper Flakes | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) | Adds mild heat |
| Green Onions | 1-2, chopped (optional) | For garnish |
| Sesame Seeds | 1 teaspoon (optional) | Adds texture and visual appeal |
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a hint of spice. |
| 2 | Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the salmon, ensuring even coating. |
| 3 | Marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Avoid marinating for more than 1 hour to prevent texture changes. |
| 4 | Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Place the salmon, skin side down if applicable, on the baking sheet. |
| 5 | Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. Optionally, broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra caramelization, watching closely to avoid burning. |
| 6 | Remove from oven, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired, and serve with rice or stir-fried veggies. |
Easy asian marinade recipe for salmon
Salmon may be made into a tasty, adaptable, and gratifying meal with an Asian-inspired marinade. With traditional ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, this Asian marinade enhances the flavor of salmon and creates a harmonious combination of sweet, savory, and somewhat tart notes.
Detailed Instructions for Asian Baked Salmon
1. Get the marinade ready.
Combine the rice vinegar, sesame oil, olive oil, grated ginger, garlic, honey or brown sugar, and soy sauce in a small bowl. To add a little heat, add red pepper flakes.
Marinate the Salmon
Pour the marinade over the salmon fillets in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, making sure to coat each one thoroughly.
Give the salmon at least 15-30 minutes to marinate in the fridge. The acidity might alter the fish’s texture, so don’t marinate it for more than an hour.
The third step is to bake the salmon.
The oven should be preheated at 400°F (200°C).
To avoid sticking, gently oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If the salmon fillets have skin, place them skin side down on the sheet.
Cover the fillets with any leftover marinade.
The salmon should flake readily with a fork after 12-15 minutes of baking. The thickness of the fillets may affect how long they take to bake.
4. Optional: Broil for Additional Caramelization
In the final one to two minutes of baking, turn the oven to broil for a little caramelized finish. The marinade’s honey can quickly caramelize, so keep a tight eye on it to avoid burning.
5. Serve and garnish
When finished, take the salmon out of the oven and let it a minute to rest. For a vibrant, fresh finish, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve with your preferred stir-fried vegetables, noodles, or steaming rice.
How to Make Asian Baked Salmon Perfect
The best salmon is fresh, but if you’re using frozen, make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
- Modify the Sweetness: You can change the quantity of honey or brown sugar to suit your personal tastes. For a sweeter glaze, add an additional teaspoon; for a more savory meal, reduce.
Keep an eye on the baking time because salmon cooks fast, so don’t overbake. The salmon is done when it flakes readily or reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Suggestions for Serving
Brown rice or steamed jasmine: A traditional accompaniment that absorbs the sauce’s tastes.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy complement the salmon’s tastes.
Asian Noodles: For a filling, substantial supper, serve the salmon over rice noodles or soba.
- Cucumber Salad: The deep flavors of the salmon are complemented by a crisp, light cucumber salad.
Differences
To make it spicier, add 1/2 teaspoon of sriracha or chili paste to the marinade for more spiciness.
Citrus Twist: To add a zesty citrus taste to the marinade, add 1-2 teaspoons of fresh orange or lime juice.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: Use a paste made of ginger and garlic rather than raw ingredients for a more potent taste.
Salmon’s Health Benefits
omega-3 fatty acids, which are abundant in salmon, boost heart health and lower inflammation. It is a nutrient-dense option for a well-balanced meal because it is also a fantastic source of protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins. This Asian marinade preserves the salmon’s flavor and nutrients without requiring too much oil or sodium when baked.
Concluding Remarks
Asian Baked Salmon is a straightforward, tasty dish that works well for both sophisticated get-togethers and easy weeknight dinners. The salmon is nicely enhanced by the well-balanced tastes of the marinade, and it remains moist and soft after baking. For a satisfying and tasty full dinner, serve it with rice, noodles, or veggies. Try it out and savor the delectable flavor of salmon with Asian influences at home!
