Soft, flaky, and full of umami flavors, this pan-fried sesame salmon recipe is an effortless yet elegant dish perfect for any meal. With a rich, savory sauce and just a hint of sweetness, it’s a quick, healthy recipe that comes together in less than 30 minutes.

sesame salmon filets on a platter next to a bowl of rice

Table of Contents

Chef’s Tips

Use Fresh Salmon: Opt for skin-on salmon fillets for extra flavor and crispiness.
Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or mirin to suit your taste.
Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the salmon skin-side up first creates a beautiful crust.
Marinate for Extra Flavor: Marinate the salmon in the sauce for 20-30 minutes if you want a deeper infusion of flavors.

Ingredients

1/2 lb salmon: Skin-on, cut into 4-5 portions.
1/2 tsp salt: To season the fish.
2 tbsp vegetable oil: For pan-frying.
4 green onions: Whites minced, greens sliced for garnish.
1 tbsp garlic (minced): Adds a punch of flavor.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami.
1 tbsp soy sauce: For a salty, savory element.
1 tbsp sesame oil: For a nutty aroma.
1 tbsp sesame seeds: Adds texture and flavor.
1 tbsp honey: Balances the savory flavors with sweetness.
1 tsp mirin: A Japanese sweet rice wine for depth.

Instructions

mixing wet ingredients to make glaze sauce

placing salmon filets in frying pan to cook

adding sauce glaze on top of filets as they cook in pan

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Season the Salmon:
Sprinkle the salmon fillets evenly with salt.
Sear the Salmon:
Heat vegetable oil in a large cast-iron or nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side up and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until a golden crust forms.
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the minced green onion whites, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, honey, and mirin.
Flip and Sauce the Salmon:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and spoon the prepared sauce over the fish.
Bake the Salmon:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 3-5 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish the salmon with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave at 50% power to prevent overcooking.

Variations

Swap the Protein: Use cod, halibut, or even tofu as an alternative to salmon.
Add Veggies: Include sautéed bok choy, green beans, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
On a Salad: Pair with a fresh honey-ginger salad for a light meal.
With Sides: Complement with roasted asparagus or sweet potato fries.

FAQs

Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Place the salmon in a foil packet with the sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Broil for a few minutes at the end for caramelization.

Is sesame oil essential?
Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with olive oil or skip it if needed.

Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before cooking for the best results.

close up view of a salmon filet cooked and topped with a sesame sauce

This Pan-Fried Sesame Salmon is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for special occasions. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and nutty flavors!