When dinner calls for a quick, delicious solution without sacrificing flavor, one-pan wonders step up to the plate-literally. Enter One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli: a harmonious blend of tender, glaze-kissed salmon fillets and vibrant, crisp-tender broccoli, all cooked together in a single skillet. This dish isn’t just about ease; it’s a celebration of bold, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce that brings every bite to life. Perfect for busy weeknights or stress-free entertaining, this recipe proves that a flavorful, nutritious meal can come together effortlessly, with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. Let’s dive into how you can transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dinner that feels anything but ordinary.
One-pan teriyaki salmon & broccoli offers a stunning balance of sweet and savory flavors that come together effortlessly in one skillet, making it the perfect weeknight dinner for busy food lovers. This dish celebrates the vibrant green of broccoli alongside flaky, tender salmon fillets, all coated in a luscious homemade teriyaki glaze that sings with notes of soy, ginger, and honey. Inspired by traditional Japanese flavors but designed for simplicity, this recipe brings restaurant-worthy quality to your table without fuss or mess.
Prep and Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for beginner cooks and busy weeknights
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin on for crispiness)
- 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and trimmed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted for garnish
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the teriyaki glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat the pan: Place a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Let it warm until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the salmon: Season salmon fillets lightly with black pepper. Add salmon skin-side down to the hot oil. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes without moving, until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Carefully flip and cook another 2-3 minutes until just opaque. Remove salmon to a large plate and tent with foil.
- Sauté the broccoli: In the same pan, add broccoli florets and stir to coat with residual oil and salmon juices. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and tender-crisp with some charred spots.
- Combine sauce and thicken: Pour the prepared teriyaki glaze over the broccoli in the pan. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly add the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly to thicken the sauce. Cook until the glaze is shiny and coats the broccoli, about 2 minutes.
- Return salmon to pan: Nestle the salmon fillets back amongst the broccoli. Spoon some glaze over the top, and let everything warm together for 1-2 minutes on low heat to marry flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions before serving. Pair this one-pan teriyaki salmon & broccoli with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for an easy, complete meal.
Tips for Success
- For the crispiest salmon skin, ensure the pan and oil are hot before adding the fillets, and avoid moving them during the initial sear.
- If broccoli florets are large, cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Make the teriyaki glaze in advance and keep it chilled for a flavor boost; simply warm it up during cooking.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger-powdered versions won’t deliver the same depth.
- To reduce sodium, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce and adjust honey to balance taste.
- This dish reheats well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Serving Suggestions
For a restaurant-style presentation, arrange salmon and broccoli artistically on a white plate. Drizzle extra teriyaki glaze around the edges. Add a wedge of fresh lime or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to brighten and add a subtle kick. Serve alongside fluffy steamed jasmine rice or a light sesame cucumber salad for contrasting textures and flavors.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
Discover more about the rich benefits of salmon and broccoli from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where you can learn about omega-3s and antioxidants that make this meal not only satisfying but heart-healthy too.
Q&A
Q&A: One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli – Easy Flavorful Dinner
Q1: What makes this One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli recipe so easy and flavorful?
A1: The magic lies in simplicity-just one pan, minimal prep, and a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon and broccoli. It’s a one-and-done meal that balances sweet, savory, and tangy notes without any fuss.
Q2: Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?
A2: Absolutely! Just thaw and drain any excess water before cooking to avoid sogginess. Frozen broccoli can be a handy shortcut and still soak up that luscious teriyaki glaze just right.
Q3: How do I make sure the salmon cooks perfectly without drying out?
A3: Timing is key-cook the broccoli first until just tender, then add the salmon skin-side down, allowing it to sear gently. The teriyaki sauce added near the end keeps the fish moist and flavorful as it finishes cooking.
Q4: Is this recipe adaptable for different dietary preferences?
A4: Yes! You can swap salmon for tofu or chicken for a different protein, and use gluten-free soy sauce to make this dish wheat-free. It’s versatile, delicious, and welcomes your personal touch.
Q5: What are some easy sides to pair with One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli?
A5: Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice complement this dish perfectly, soaking up every last drop of teriyaki goodness. A fresh cucumber salad or pickled ginger can add a refreshing contrast as well.
Q6: Can I prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A6: Definitely! The sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This shortcut saves time and enriches the flavors as they meld together even better overnight.
Q7: What kitchen tools do I need?
A7: Just a large skillet or a non-stick pan, a spatula, and measuring spoons. The minimalist equipment list matches the recipe’s straightforward elegance.
Q8: How do I get that perfect glaze on the salmon without burning the sauce?
A8: Cook on medium heat after adding the sauce, allowing it to reduce gently. Resist the urge to crank up the heat; slow caramelization creates that glossy, irresistible finish.
This One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli not only saves time but also delights your taste buds with every bite. Ready to impress yourself with an effortless dinner? Dive in and savor the simplicity of one-pan magic!
Closing Remarks
In the whirlwind of busy weeknights, finding a dinner that’s both effortless and packed with flavor can feel like a culinary treasure hunt. With this One-Pan Teriyaki Salmon & Broccoli recipe, you’ve struck gold. The harmonious blend of tender, flaky salmon glazed with savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, paired effortlessly with crisp-tender broccoli, proves that simplicity never sacrifices taste. Not only does this dish streamline your kitchen time, but it also invites you to enjoy a vibrant, wholesome meal without the fuss. So next time hunger calls, let this easy, flavorful dinner inspire you to create something nourishing and delicious-all from one pan. Your weeknight routine just got a flavorful upgrade.
