Salmon Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, then this Salmon Rice Bowl is just what you need! This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, combining the tender flavors of glazed salmon with fresh veggies and creamy avocado. It’s not only a feast for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes, making it ideal for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself after a long day.

What I love most about this dish is how it brings everything together in one bowl. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful harmony. Plus, it’s adaptable enough to suit different tastes—everyone can customize their own bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up in no time!
• Family-friendly: This Salmon Rice Bowl appeals to all ages, making dinner a breeze.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prep your ingredients ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor explosion: The combination of teriyaki-style salmon, fresh slaw, and spicy mayo creates a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is half the fun! They are wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store. Once you have them on hand, you’ll be all set to create your Salmon Rice Bowl masterpiece.

For the Rice:

• 1 1/2 cups dry jasmine rice

For the Sriracha Mayo:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (can use regular or light)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp sriracha

For the Slaw:

• 4 cups (8 oz) coleslaw*
• 2 green onions (sliced)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 Tbsp honey (divided)
• 3 Tbsp + 1 tsp soy sauce (divided)
• 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil (divided)
• Salt (and black pepper)

For the Salmon:

• 2 Tbsp mirin
• 1 Tbsp fresh ginger (minced)
• 1 tsp minced fresh garlic
• 3/4 tsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 1/2 lbs. skinless salmon fillet (chopped into 1-inch cubes)

For Toppings:

• 1/2 English cucumber(thinly sliced)
• 1 avocado(diced)
• 1 1/2 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Variations

The beauty of this Salmon Rice Bowl recipe is its versatility! You can easily mix things up based on what you have in your pantry or personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of salmon for a different protein option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or peanut sauce for new flavor profiles.
• Try different grains: Switch out jasmine rice for quinoa or brown rice to change up the base.

How to Make Salmon Rice Bowl

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your jasmine rice according to the package directions. This will serve as the comforting base of your bowl. The fluffy rice absorbs all those delicious flavors from the toppings, making every bite satisfying!

Step 2: Prepare the Sriracha Mayo

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and sriracha until well combined. This spicy mayo adds a creamy kick that elevates your bowl. Transfer it to a small bag so you can easily drizzle it later—trust me, it makes serving super fun!

Step 3: Make the Slaw

Next, let’s whip up that refreshing slaw! In a large mixing bowl, toss together coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, rice vinegar, one tablespoon of honey, one teaspoon of soy sauce, and half a teaspoon of sesame oil. Season lightly with salt to taste. This crunchy slaw balances beautifully with the rich salmon.

Step 4: Prepare the Salmon Sauce

In another small mixing bowl, whisk together three tablespoons of soy sauce, two tablespoons of mirin, one tablespoon of honey, half a teaspoon of sesame oil, minced ginger, minced garlic, and cornstarch until well blended. This sauce will coat your salmon in irresistible flavor while keeping it nice and juicy.

Step 5: Cook the Salmon

Now it’s time for that delicious salmon! Pat dry your salmon pieces with paper towels and season them lightly with pepper. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, quickly spread out your salmon pieces evenly in the skillet. Let them sear on one side until nearly cooked through—this takes about two to three minutes.

Step 6: Add Sauce to Salmon

Give that cornstarch mixture another whisk before pouring it over your seared salmon. Gently toss everything together for about twenty to thirty seconds until thickened. This step ensures every piece of salmon is beautifully coated.

Step 7: Assemble Your Bowls

To finish off your Salmon Rice Bowl masterpiece, layer cooked rice into serving bowls. Top each bowl with sections of glazed salmon, crunchy cabbage slaw, creamy avocado chunks, and thinly sliced cucumber. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top and drizzle with that delightful sriracha mayo from earlier.

And there you have it—a stunning Salmon Rice Bowl that tastes as good as it looks! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salmon Rice Bowl

Creating the perfect Salmon Rice Bowl is all about balancing flavors and textures, and I’m here to help you nail it!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality salmon make a noticeable difference in flavor and nutritional value. They enhance the overall taste of your dish and contribute essential nutrients.

• Let the rice rest: After cooking, allow your jasmine rice to sit covered for about 10 minutes. This helps it steam and become fluffier, making it the ideal base for your layered bowl.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha in the mayo according to your spice tolerance. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy their bowl just the way they like it!

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add other toppings like radishes or pickled ginger to bring in additional flavors and textures. Variety can elevate your bowl from good to spectacular!

• Meal prep friendly: You can prepare elements of this dish ahead of time, such as the slaw and sriracha mayo. This way, dinner comes together quickly on busy nights.

How to Serve Salmon Rice Bowl

Presenting your Salmon Rice Bowl beautifully can turn a simple meal into an impressive feast! Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the salmon perfectly.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens up the entire bowl with a zesty kick.
• Toasted nori strips: These add a delightful crunch and a hint of umami that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and complements the flavors of the rice bowl beautifully.
• Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides a nutritious and protein-packed side that’s easy to prepare.
• Sesame Broccoli: Quickly sautéed broccoli with sesame oil adds color, crunch, and nutrients while enhancing the Asian theme.
• Seaweed Salad: The clean flavors and slight sweetness of seaweed salad offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of salmon.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious Salmon Rice Bowl in style! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salmon Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week with minimal effort!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salmon rice bowl components in separate airtight containers.
• Keep the cabbage slaw and sriracha mayo in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• The cooked salmon can be stored for 2-3 days as well, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

• While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze only the cooked salmon and rice separately.
• Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Consume frozen salmon and rice within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat the salmon and rice, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel.
• Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, stirring halfway.
• Avoid reheating the slaw and avocado; simply add these fresh after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a Salmon Rice Bowl.

Can I customize my Salmon Rice Bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients to suit your taste. This recipe is flexible and encourages creativity!

How do I make a Salmon Rice Bowl healthier?

You can make your Salmon Rice Bowl healthier by using brown rice instead of jasmine rice, or by adding more vegetables to increase fiber content.

Can I use other fish for this Salmon Rice Bowl?

Yes, while this recipe specifically highlights salmon, you can substitute other fish like trout or even tofu for a plant-based option!

What pairs well with a Salmon Rice Bowl?

A refreshing side salad or steamed vegetables complement the flavors of the bowl nicely. You might also consider serving it with miso soup for a cozy meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this delightful Salmon Rice Bowl! Its vibrant colors and bold flavors come together beautifully, making it not just a meal but an experience. Enjoy crafting each layer and don’t hesitate to share your creations! Happy cooking!