Mango Teriyaki Salmon is a bright and tasty dish that mixes the sweet and tangy flavors of mango with the rich, savory goodness of salmon and teriyaki sauce. The juicy mango adds a fresh twist while the teriyaki glaze gives the salmon a lovely shiny finish and a mouthwatering flavor. It’s a simple but impressive meal that feels light and satisfying.
I love making this dish because it comes together quickly, and the combo of mango and teriyaki always feels like a little celebration on my plate. A good tip I’ve found is to use ripe but firm mango, so it holds its shape well and adds just the right amount of sweetness without getting mushy. I usually marinate the salmon briefly in teriyaki sauce to make the flavors really stick, then finish it off with fresh mango for a bright contrast.
This salmon pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a fresh green salad to soak up the extra sauce. I often like to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for a bit of crunch and color. It’s a go-to recipe when I want something healthy but still full of flavor, and it always feels a bit special, like a mini tropical getaway on my dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Salmon
- I prefer fresh wild-caught salmon for its flavor and texture, but farmed salmon works well too. If you dislike salmon, try this recipe with trout or tilapia fillets instead.
- Mango
- Use ripe but firm mango to keep nice chunks on top of the salmon. If mango isn't available, diced pineapple or peach can add a tropical sweetness.
- Teriyaki Sauce
- Making your own with soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic gives the freshest flavor. For a quick option, store-bought teriyaki sauce is fine, just skip extra sugar.
- Sesame Oil
- It adds a nutty depth but can be strong. If you don't have it, vegetable or olive oil are good substitutes, but the flavor will be lighter.
How Do You Get a Perfect Seared Salmon Without Sticking?
Getting a good sear while keeping the salmon intact can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Pat salmon dry with paper towels to remove moisture—this helps create a crisp crust.
- Heat the pan over medium-high until really hot before adding oil.
- Place salmon skin-side down first, and don’t move it for 4-5 minutes so it forms a golden crust.
- Use a thin spatula to gently loosen the edges before flipping to avoid breaking the fillet.
- After flipping, cook just until done to keep salmon flaky and moist.
These steps make searing easy and give you that tasty, slightly crisp finish that pairs perfectly with the sticky teriyaki glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for searing salmon evenly without sticking.
- Small saucepan – to make and thicken the teriyaki sauce smoothly.
- Fish spatula – helps flip salmon gently without breaking it.
- Mixing bowl – handy for tossing diced mango and green onions before topping.
- Measuring spoons and cups – ensure you get the right balance of sauce ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap salmon with chicken breast for a leaner protein that still pairs well with teriyaki.
- Add diced red bell pepper or snap peas to the sauce for extra crunch and color.
- Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick if you like a little heat.
- Top with chopped fresh cilantro or basil instead of green onions for a fresh herbal twist.
How to Make Mango Teriyaki Salmon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes making the teriyaki sauce, searing the salmon, and putting everything together. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, mix soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, mirin (if you’re using it), grated ginger, and minced garlic. Heat it gently over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and looks glossy. Turn off the heat and set the sauce aside.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Pat your salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper.
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Place the salmon skin-side down (if it has skin) and cook without moving it for 4-5 minutes to get a nice golden sear.
Carefully flip the salmon and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until it’s cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Pour some of the teriyaki sauce over the salmon in the pan so it glazes beautifully while cooking.
3. Serve and Garnish:
Take the salmon off the heat and plate it. Spoon extra teriyaki sauce over each fillet.
Top with the diced mango, sliced green onions, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for some crunch and color.
Serve your Mango Teriyaki Salmon right away with steamed rice or your favorite vegetables.
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent a good sear.
Can I Substitute the Mango with Another Fruit?
Absolutely! Pineapple or peach work well as tropical alternatives and provide a similar sweet, juicy contrast to the savory teriyaki glaze.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftover salmon and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the sauce if needed.
Is It Possible to Make the Teriyaki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare the teriyaki sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before glazing the salmon for easy meal prep.