Citrus-Garlic Soy Salmon Marinade Recipe

This salmon marinade recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and citrusy tang, making it your new go-to for flavor-packed, tender, and juicy salmon fillets. Whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this easy marinade for salmon recipe brings out the best in every bite.

Pin

It's a must-make.

This easy salmon marinade is one of my favorite recipes and here’s why:

• Fast and easy- just 5 minutes to whisk and you're ready to marinate.
• Customizable- whether you're into spicy red pepper flakes or mild and sweet honey garlic salmon, this one works.
• Packed with so much flavor- this honey soy salmon marinade delivers every time—garlic, citrus, and a hint of sweetness.
• Versatile- works beautifully on any cut of salmon, plus other proteins like chicken or tofu.

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

This salmon marinade is all about building bold, layered flavor in just minutes. You’ve got the savory depth of soy sauce, the brightness of fresh lemon juice, the sweet balance from honey or brown sugar, and a garlicky kick that brings it all home. Whisked together, it becomes a rich, glossy sauce that clings beautifully to whatever it touches—especially salmon.

When used on salmon fillets, the marinade soaks into the flesh side, infusing it with every bit of that savory-sweet citrus flavor. The result? A tender, juicy texture caramelizes beautifully, edges, and a crave-worthy, soy-glazed finish. It’s the kind of marinade that makes even the simplest fish dinner feel extra special.

What you'll need.

Here’s what goes into this great recipe for glazed salmon marinade:

• Soy Sauce: the salty backbone that adds deep flavor. Go gluten-free with tamari or use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.
• Olive Oil: A neutral oil that binds everything together and keeps the fish moist, like vegetable oil. Extra virgin olive oil is what I had on hand.
• Lemon Juice: brightens the marinade—always go with fresh-squeezed for the best flavor.
• Honey: the sweet side of the honey soy combo. You can swap in maple syrup or brown sugar if needed.
• Minced Garlic: fresh garlic minced is best for bold flavor—key to a good honey garlic salmon recipe.
• Dijon Mustard: adds a touch of tang and helps emulsify the marinade. Dijon mustard is my favorite, but feel free to use what you like.
• Seasonings: freshly ground black pepper and/or optional red pepper flakes.
• Garnish: fresh herbs and sesame seeds for a nice finish and toasty bite.

Customize it your way.

The best marinade is already packed with flavor, but it’s easy to switch things up with a few simple additions or swaps. Try adding:

• Lemon or lime zest for extra brightness and citrus aroma that lifts the whole dish.
• Add fresh grated ginger and fresh garlic for a warm, zesty kick that pairs beautifully with soy and honey.
• Brown sugar to deepen the sweetness and add a touch of molasses richness.
• Chili garlic sauce to bring heat and bold umami flavor.
• Toasted sesame oil for a nutty, rich undertone that gives the marinade more depth.
• Sriracha, if you like it spicy and want a balanced sweet-heat finish.
• Orange juice for a sweeter, fruity twist that makes a perfect glazed salmon recipe.
• Green onions are finely minced for a fresh, mild onion flavor right in the marinade.
• Add fresh herbs such as parsley, fresh thyme, or dill to the marinade or feel free to use as a garnish.
• Add other seasonings such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder for extra flavor.

Flexible dietary swaps.

Need to adjust this salmon recipe marinade recipe for your dietary needs or preferences? Here are some easy, healthy swaps for this marinade:

• Gluten free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to keep it 100% gluten free.
• Soy free: Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos or a soy-free seasoning sauce for a similar umami punch.
• Low carb / Keto: Use monk fruit or stevia in place of honey or brown sugar to keep sugars low without losing sweetness.
• Vegan: Choose maple syrup or agave instead of honey for a plant-based sweetener.
• Low sodium: Use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to control salt levels without compromising flavor.
• No added sugar: Skip the sweetener entirely or add a splash of orange juice for natural sweetness without refined sugar.

How to make honey soy salmon marinade.

Just a quick mix and your salmon recipe is ready to soak up all that flavor:

Pin

Mix

Whisk all marinade ingredients together until all the marinade is fully emulsified.

Pin

Marinate

Pour over salmon and marinate before cooking.

How to cook the salmon.

Ready to cook salmon? Here are three foolproof ways to turn your marinated salmon recipe into a delicious, perfectly cooked dinner—whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Pin

Grilling:
Preheat grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates with olive oil. Grill salmon skin-side down on a hot grill for 6–8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2–4 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily.

Baking:
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily.

Pan-Searing:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon skin-side up and sear for 3–4 minutes. Flip and cook skin-side down for another 3–5 minutes, until the salmon is golden and just cooked through.

📌 Be sure to save this pin to Pinterest for later!

Pin