Sesame Grilled Salmon Fillets

Name: Sesame Grilled Salmon Fillets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 4 salmon fillets; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliced green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean & Simple Meals

I absolutely love cooking salmon, and this Sesame Grilled Salmon Fillets recipe is a true winner in my kitchen. The combination of nutty sesame oil and the rich flavor of salmon creates a deliciously balanced dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. The grill gives the fish a lovely char, while the sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again!

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:18:28.140Z

When I first tried grilling salmon with sesame oil, I was amazed at how the flavors complemented each other. The nuttiness of the sesame truly enhances the taste of the fish and adds an irresistible aroma. I found that marinating the salmon for even just a few minutes makes a significant difference in flavor.

After testing this recipe multiple times, I discovered that using a grill basket helps prevent the delicate salmon from sticking and falling apart. Plus, it allows even cooking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutty sesame flavor that perfectly complements rich salmon
Delicious char from the grill adds depth to the dish
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Healthy and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade for these salmon fillets is crucial for infusing flavor deep into the fish. The sesame oil, with its toasty aroma, works to enhance the richness of the salmon while the soy sauce adds a savory depth. The honey not only balances the saltiness but also helps to create a beautiful glaze when grilled. Make sure to whisk the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the honey dissolves completely, guaranteeing an even taste across all fillets.

For a bit more spice, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the marinade. This can elevate the flavor profile and provide a pleasant kick. Remember to let the salmon marinate for at least 10 minutes, but for even better flavor absorption, you can let it sit for up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acids in soy sauce can begin to 'cook' the fish, affecting its texture.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Salmon

Grilling salmon can be tricky due to its delicate texture, but with the right techniques, you can achieve perfect results. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is essential to create a lovely char while ensuring the fish cooks evenly. A good rule of thumb is to wait until the grill is around 400°F to 450°F before placing the salmon on the grates. For a non-stick experience, oil the grill grates lightly using a paper towel soaked in oil.

When grilling, it’s crucial to minimize flipping to avoid breaking the fillets apart. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to the grill for extra depth. Using a grill basket can prevent the salmon from sticking and falling apart, which is especially helpful if the fillets are thinner.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1/4 cup sesame oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the salmon marinate for at least 10 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.

Grill the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Sprinkle the salmon with sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Place the salmon fillets on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. If using a grill basket, place the salmon inside it before grilling.

Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the salmon from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, try adding lime juice to the marinade or serve the salmon with a side of steamed vegetables and jasmine rice to complement the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Sesame Grilled Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a healthy meal, serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the fish. Instead of plain rice, you could elevate the dish with some sautéed vegetables, such as bok choy or stir-fried snow peas, adding both color and nutrition to your plate.

For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame seeds. The crunch of the cucumbers complements the tender salmon, balancing out the meal's richness. I also love serving this dish with a drizzle of additional soy sauce or a light ponzu sauce for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be cautious to not overcook it, as salmon can dry out easily. A gentle approach is best: reheat the salmon in the microwave at 50% power for short intervals, checking frequently until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, drizzling a touch of water to help retain moisture.

If you want to freeze the grilled salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as mentioned, ensuring the flavor and texture remain as delightful as when first grilled.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other firm white fish like halibut or tuna. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

You can marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes. Avoid marinating for too long as the soy sauce can make the fish too salty.

→ Is it necessary to remove the skin from the salmon?

No, keeping the skin on can help keep the fish moist during grilling. You can easily remove it after cooking if you prefer.

→ Can I bake this salmon instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated salmon for about 12-15 minutes.