If you’re looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal that comes together in just 30 minutes, these Salmon Rice Bowls are a guaranteed hit. Tender, marinated salmon with a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and umami rests on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, accompanied by fresh cucumbers, creamy avocado, and protein-rich edamame. A drizzle of creamy spicy mayo ties everything together for a restaurant-quality dish you can enjoy at home.
I love making these bowls on busy weeknights because they’re quick, nourishing, and endlessly customizable. They also make an impressive lunch option that you can prep ahead for the week. The marinade infuses the salmon with rich, bold flavors, while the toppings add crunch, creaminess, and freshness in every bite.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, feeding your family, or hosting friends, these Salmon Rice Bowls deliver a complete meal with vibrant color and texture that’s as satisfying as it is beautiful.
Why You’ll Love These Salmon Rice Bowls
Quick to make: Ready in about 30 minutes, with minimal prep
Healthy and balanced: Packed with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats
Versatile: Easily swap ingredients based on your taste or what’s in your pantry
Meal-prep friendly: Components can be made ahead and assembled when needed
Crowd-pleasing flavors: Sweet, spicy, tangy, and creamy all in one bite
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Salmon:
- 1 ½ lbs center-cut salmon filet, skin removed
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic paste
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
For the Spicy Mayo:
- ⅓ cup kewpie mayonnaise (or regular mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
For the Bowls:
- 4 cups steamed jasmine rice (or rice of choice)
- 2 Persian cucumbers, sliced into half moons
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup steamed edamame
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Nori sheets, for serving
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, season your steamed rice with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar, sushi-style.
How to Make Salmon Rice Bowls
1. Marinate the Salmon
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic, and ginger. Pat the salmon dry, cut into 1½-inch cubes, and toss in the marinade. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
2. Prepare the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, mix kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, grated ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Cook the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange marinated salmon cubes in a single layer and bake for 8–10 minutes. For a slightly charred finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
4. Assemble the Bowls
Divide steamed jasmine rice among four bowls. Top with salmon cubes, cucumber slices, avocado, and edamame. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with nori sheets on the side.
Variations and Substitutions
Switch the protein: Try tuna, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian version
Change the base: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
Add more veggies: Shredded carrots, pickled radish, or blanched spinach work beautifully
Adjust the heat: Add extra sriracha to the sauce or top with sliced jalapeños
Go tropical: Add fresh mango or pineapple for a sweet twist
Meal Prep Tips
- Cook rice, marinate salmon, and prep veggies ahead of time—store separately for up to 3 days
- Keep spicy mayo in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Reheat salmon gently in the oven or enjoy it cold for a refreshing lunch bowl
What to Serve With These Bowls
- Miso soup for a light starter
- Seaweed salad for extra greens
- Steamed dumplings for a heartier meal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Just store each component separately and assemble right before eating.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all condiments are certified gluten-free.
Can I air-fry the salmon?
Yes—air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 7–8 minutes until cooked through.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store salmon, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers. Consume within 3 days.
Final Thoughts
These Salmon Rice Bowls are the perfect blend of freshness, flavor, and nutrition. With tender marinated salmon, fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and creamy spicy mayo, they make a satisfying meal that works for both quick weeknights and special lunches. They’re customizable, colorful, and guaranteed to make it into your regular meal rotation.
Salmon Rice Bowls
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1 ½ lbs center-cut salmon filet skin removed
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic paste
- 2 garlic cloves grated
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
For the Spicy Mayo:
- ⅓ cup kewpie mayonnaise or regular mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
For the Bowls:
- 4 cups steamed jasmine rice or rice of choice
- 2 Persian cucumbers sliced into half moons
- 1 avocado sliced
- 1 cup steamed edamame
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Nori sheets for serving
Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, season your steamed rice with a splash of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar, sushi-style.
Instructions
Marinate the Salmon
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sriracha, garlic, and ginger. Pat the salmon dry, cut into 1½-inch cubes, and toss in the marinade. Let it sit for 20–30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
Prepare the Spicy Mayo
- In a small bowl, mix kewpie mayonnaise, sriracha, grated ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cook the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange marinated salmon cubes in a single layer and bake for 8–10 minutes. For a slightly charred finish, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Assemble the Bowls
- Divide steamed jasmine rice among four bowls. Top with salmon cubes, cucumber slices, avocado, and edamame. Drizzle generously with spicy mayo, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with nori sheets on the side.
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