I can’t wait to share this ginger glazed salmon recipe with you! It’s the kind of dish that’ll have you smiling with every bite.
I made it for a special dinner, and honestly, it turned out way better than I expected. The flavors just came together perfectly—sweet, savory, and with just the right amount of zing from the ginger.
It all started when I was craving something fresh, but still cozy enough for a homemade dinner.
Salmon seemed like the obvious choice, and I knew I wanted something with a glaze that would leave the salmon shiny and flavorful.
I’ve tried different ways of cooking fish, but broiling it with a simple ginger glaze took it to the next level.
The glaze is rich, sticky, and packs a punch. Trust me, you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together, and before you know it, you’ll have a gorgeous, restaurant-quality dish to serve.
Table of Contents
ToggleGinger Glazed Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free/vegan option)
- 5 tablespoons coconut sugar or honey (use maple syrup for vegan)
- 2 tablespoons tamari (or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 4 salmon fillets (about 4-5 oz each)
- Chopped chives or fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a pan over medium-low heat, melt the butter (or oil). Add ginger, garlic, and onion, stirring gently for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the coconut sugar (or chosen sweetener) and cook until it fully dissolves and starts to bubble, forming a rich, sticky glaze.
- Turn off the heat and slowly mix in tamari or liquid aminos, stirring well to combine. Be careful, as the sauce may sizzle.
- Preheat the broiler and place the oven rack in the middle. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.
- Arrange the fillets on the tray and brush each one generously with the prepared glaze.
- Place in the oven and cook for about 4-5 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure a golden, caramelized top while maintaining a moist texture inside.
- Garnish with fresh chives or parsley and serve immediately.
Tips For Success With Ginger Glazed Salmon
To make sure your ginger-glazed salmon turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips:
- Grate Fresh Ginger Instead of Chopping: Grating fresh ginger gives you a finer texture, which helps it melt into the glaze and distribute evenly across the salmon. It ensures a smoother, more intense flavor compared to chopped pieces.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Salmon can go from perfectly tender to dry in just a minute. Keep a close eye on the salmon while broiling. You’ll know it’s done when it flakes easily with a fork but still feels moist and tender inside.
- Caramelize the Sugar Well: The magic of this glaze lies in how well you caramelize the sugar. Let it bubble and thicken until it forms a rich amber color before adding the soy sauce. If the sugar doesn’t caramelize enough, the glaze will lack the depth of flavor.
- Adjust Soy Sauce to Your Taste: Depending on the brand, soy sauce can vary in saltiness. Start with less and taste the glaze before adding more. You can balance it out with a bit of honey or extra ginger if it’s too salty for your preference.
- Rest the Salmon After Cooking: Once the salmon is broiled and out of the oven, let it rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the glaze to set and enhances the flavor, making each bite juicier and more flavorful.
- Use a Non-stick or Cast Iron Pan for Searing First: If you prefer a seared finish on your salmon, start by cooking it in a non-stick or cast iron pan before glazing and broiling. This ensures a beautiful crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender.
- Use a Basting Brush for Even Glaze: When applying the glaze, don’t just spoon it over the fish. Use a basting brush for an even, thin layer of glaze on top, which helps the glaze caramelize more uniformly and gives the salmon a beautiful finish.
- Finish with Fresh Herbs for a Pop of Flavor: Garnish your salmon with fresh cilantro or chives right before serving. Not only does this brighten up the presentation, but it also adds a fresh, aromatic finish to the rich and sweet glaze.
How To Store Ginger Glazed Salmon?
Leftover ginger-glazed salmon can be stored for later, but it’s important to do it properly to preserve its flavor and texture:
- Refrigerate: Store your leftover salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. To maintain its flavor, avoid storing it in a metal container, as it can affect the taste.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the salmon tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Gently: To prevent drying out, reheat salmon on low heat in the oven at 275°F. You can also wrap it in foil with a little water or broth inside to keep it moist.
What To Serve With Ginger Glazed Salmon?
Pairing the right side dishes can really complete the meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside your ginger-glazed salmon:
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Roasted vegetables (like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers)
- Sautéed spinach with garlic
- Sweet potato fries
- Cucumber salad with lime dressing
- Quinoa with fresh herbs
- Grilled asparagus
- Mashed cauliflower
- Fresh mango salsa
How Long Does Ginger Glazed Salmon Take To Cook?
The cooking time for ginger-glazed salmon depends on the method you’re using and the thickness of your fillets:
- Broiling: Typically takes around 4-6 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the salmon fillets. The glaze should caramelize on top, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
- Grilling: About 6-8 minutes, depending on how hot your grill is and the thickness of your fillets.
- Baking: 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C) is perfect for a cooked-through, flaky texture.
Can I Make Ginger Glaze Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can absolutely make the ginger glaze ahead of time! In fact, making it ahead can allow the flavors to meld even more. Here’s how:
- Make-Ahead: Once the glaze is prepared, let it cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Simply warm the glaze up on low heat before using it on your salmon. If it has thickened too much, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Can I Use A Different Fish For This Ginger Glaze?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of fish! While salmon is perfect because of its richness, you can substitute it with:
- Trout: Similar in texture and flavor to salmon, it will work great with the ginger glaze.
- Mahi Mahi or Halibut: These firm white fish will absorb the glaze nicely and cook evenly.
- Cod or Tilapia: If you prefer a milder flavor, these fish are great options for a light yet flavorful meal.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like a little extra heat with your ginger-glazed salmon, here are some ideas to add a spicy kick:
- Add Chili Flakes: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes when making the glaze.
- Use Fresh Chilies: Mince a small chili (such as a serrano or jalapeño) and add it along with the ginger and garlic for extra heat.
- Sriracha or Hot Sauce: Stir in a small amount of your favorite hot sauce to the glaze, adjusting to your heat preference.