Save A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I discovered this recipe after finding extra cooked salmon and rice in the fridge. With a simple microwave trick and fresh toppings, the bowl always feels new and never boring.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup of leftover rice, chilled is fine
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2, for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional: chili flakes or sriracha
Instructions
- Prep Bowl:
- Place cooled rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Microwave Steam:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon. Cover loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat:
- Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
- Toppings:
- Remove bowl from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Assemble:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Enjoy the bowl immediately while warm.
Save This salmon rice bowl is always popular at our house for a quick lunch after a busy morning, especially when everyone craves something both nourishing and flavorful.
Required Tools
Use a microwave-safe bowl for steaming and a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping the toppings.
Allergen Information
This dish contains fish, soy, and sesame. For gluten-free needs, substitute tamari for soy sauce and always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save Finish your salmon rice bowl with a sprinkle of sesame and a few chili flakes for a boost of flavor. Enjoy immediately for peak freshness.
Recipe Guide
- → How does the ice cube method work for reheating?
Placing ice cubes on rice and salmon before microwaving helps gently steam ingredients, keeping them moist and preventing dryness.
- → Can I use other cooked fish or protein?
Absolutely—feel free to swap cooked fish like cod or trout, or try tofu for a vegetarian option.
- → What toppings pair well with salmon and rice?
Avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, scallion, and optional chili flakes create layers of flavor, texture, and color.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by choosing tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
- → What nutritional benefits does this bowl offer?
Each serving provides balanced protein, healthy fats, and fiber, with fresh veggies boosting vitamins and minerals.