Teriyaki-Glazed Salmon with Sesame Broccoli & Herbed Brown Rice Pilaf
This teriyaki-glazed salmon is a MIND Diet-friendly dish that brings together the perfect balance of umami-rich flavors, brain-boosting nutrients, and vibrant textures. Paired with sesame broccoli and a light herbed brown rice pilaf, this dish is both nourishing and deeply satisfying

Ingredients
- 4 4-6 oz salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp tamari
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil, optional
For the Skillet Sesame Broccoli
- 4 cups broccoli
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- sesame oil
For the Herbed Brown Rice Pilaf
- 1 cup brown rice, uncooked
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp parsley
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse 1 cup brown rice under cold running water for 30 seconds to remove excess starch. Drain well.
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the rinsed rice and toast for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden and fragrant.
- Pour in 2 cups water or vegetable broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 40 to 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes, covered.
- Fluff with a fork, then stir in: 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or chives), chopped; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the bottom is golden and crispy.
- Flip salmon, deglaze the pan with 1-2 tbsp of water, then pour half the marinade over the fillets.
- Put the lid on, and cook for another 3-7 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through on the inside (I usually cut one in half to check) and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Remove salmon from the skillet and set aside. I recommend putting it on a plate with another plate over it.
- In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), add broccoli florets, 1-2 tbsp water and the rest of the marinade.
- Cover and cook on medium head for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Turn off the heat and toss with sesame seeds (optional).
- Spoon herbed rice pilaf onto plates.
- Top with seared salmon and sesame broccoli.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Why You'll Love This
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids from salmon for brain and heart health
- High in fiber and antioxidants from broccoli and whole grains
- Naturally balanced flavors with sweet, savory, and zesty elements
- Meal-prep friendly and simple to make
Eat well for the long run — with simple meals you’ll actually enjoy. Inspired by the MIND Diet, our meals are designed to support your brain, protect your body, and fit into real life.
Published: Mar 02, 2025