There’s something magical about dining outdoors at Copper Top Ridge—especially under the soft glow of Edison lights strung across the pergola, the scent of cedar and wildflowers on the breeze, and the gentle sounds of Squaw Creek flowing nearby. One of our favorite meals to enjoy in this peaceful setting is Grilled Teriyaki Salmon, brined to perfection and served with fragrant jasmine rice and tender-crisp seasonal vegetables. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary evening into a summer memory.

Whether you’re staying with us for the weekend or just looking to bring a little Copper Top magic to your own backyard, here’s our go-to recipe—simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor.

🍣 Copper Top Ridge Grilled Teriyaki Salmon

Serves 4

Step 1: Brine the Salmon (Overnight)

This step adds incredible moisture and flavor. Don’t skip it!

Brine Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (skin-on)

• 1/4 cup kosher salt

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 4 cups cold water

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 2 garlic cloves, smashed

• A few slices of fresh ginger (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine brine ingredients in a large bowl and stir until dissolved.

2. Submerge salmon fillets, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours).

3. Rinse the salmon thoroughly and pat dry before grilling.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Glaze

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

• 1/4 cup honey

• 1/4 cup mirin or rice vinegar

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients (except cornstarch mixture) in a small saucepan.

2. Simmer over medium heat until reduced slightly, about 10 minutes.

3. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened.

4. Set aside to cool slightly before brushing on the salmon.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

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

2. Place salmon skin-side down and grill for 5–6 minutes, brushing with teriyaki glaze.

3. Flip carefully and grill another 2–3 minutes, glazing again.

4. The salmon is done when it flakes easily and has grill marks with a caramelized glaze.

🍚 Sides: Jasmine Rice & Summer Vegetables

Steamed Jasmine Rice

• Rinse 1.5 cups of jasmine rice until the water runs clear.

• Cook with 2.25 cups water and a pinch of salt (stovetop or rice cooker).

• Fluff with a fork and serve warm.

Grilled Summer Veggies

• Toss sliced zucchini, red bell pepper, and asparagus in olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of soy sauce.

• Grill in a veggie basket or directly on the grates for 6–8 minutes until charred but tender.

🎣 Why Lake Michigan Salmon Is the Best

What makes this dish extra special at Copper Top Ridge? The salmon. If you’ve never had fresh-caught Lake Michigan salmon, you’re in for a treat. Unlike most salmon in grocery stores—which are farm-raised or frozen—Lake Michigan salmon are wild-caught and incredibly fresh, offering a firmer texture and cleaner, richer flavor.

And here’s a fun fact: commercial fishing is illegal on Lake Michigan, so the only way to enjoy this top-tier fish is to go out and catch it yourself—or know someone who has!

Looking to try it firsthand? We highly recommend booking a charter with our local partner:
👉 Just One More Charter – Captain Larry Richmann out of Michigan City, Indiana. Captain Larry knows the waters better than anyone and offers a fantastic experience for both first-timers and seasoned anglers.

Want to learn more about what makes salmon fishing on Lake Michigan so thrilling?
🎣 Check out our full guide:
👉 Salmon Fishing on Lake Michigan

🌿 Serve It Al Fresco

At Copper Top Ridge, we love plating this meal family-style on the outdoor dining table under our pergola. Add a chilled glass of white wine or sake, some lanterns or string lights, and you’re set for a memorable evening. Whether you’re watching fireflies dance in the yard or winding down from a day at the beach, this meal is the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of Southwest Michigan.

Want more Copper Top Ridge recipes or inspiration for your next outdoor dinner? Stay tuned to the blog, or better yet—book your stay and taste it for yourself.

👉 Book Your Stay at Copper Top Ridge
📸 Don’t forget to tag us in your dinner creations: #CopperTopCuisine