Imagine all the flavors of your favorite sushi roll, but in a hearty, satisfying bowl! This Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl combines tender, marinated salmon with fluffy white rice, creamy avocado, and crisp vegetables. The rich Kewpie Mayo and spicy Sriracha drizzle bring everything together, while Furikake seasoning adds the perfect umami crunch.
This dish is an easy, nutritious option for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a fancy at-home sushi night! You can bake the salmon in the oven or use an air fryer for an even quicker meal. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a fresh, flavorful bowl, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups white rice (short-grain or long-grain)
- 4 salmon portions (about 5 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, minced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup mini cucumbers, sliced
- Kewpie Mayo (to taste)
- Sriracha (to taste)
- Furikake Seasoning (to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Keep warm.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and green onions. Add the salmon portions, turning to coat well. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes (up to 30 minutes).
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- If using an oven, place salmon on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes. If using an air fryer, cook for about 8 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on portion size.
- Once the salmon is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes.
- Assemble the bowls: Divide the rice into 4 bowls and top with salmon.
- Add avocado slices, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers.
- Drizzle with Kewpie Mayo and Sriracha, then sprinkle generously with Furikake seasoning.
- Garnish with extra green onions and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 722 kcal | Servings: 4
Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl: A Perfect Blend of Flavor, Nutrition, and Simplicity
The Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl is the perfect fusion of flavors, textures, and nutrition. It brings together the essence of sushi in an easy to make dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing. This recipe has become a go to meal for those who want something delicious, healthy, and simple to prepare at home. Packed with tender, marinated salmon, fluffy white rice, creamy avocado, and crunchy vegetables, this dish offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, making it a wholesome choice for any meal.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal-prep option, or an elegant dish to impress guests, this salmon rice bowl delivers in every way. The best part? It can be made in under 30 minutes using fresh and readily available ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Packed with Nutrients
Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins like B12 and D. When paired with fresh vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, this dish becomes a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s a well rounded meal that supports heart health, brain function, and overall well being. -
Quick and Easy to Make
Unlike traditional sushi, which requires rolling, this bowl simplifies the process by layering the ingredients in a bowl. With the option to cook the salmon in either an air fryer or an oven, you can have this meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. -
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about this dish is how versatile it is. You can adjust the flavors and toppings based on your preferences. Prefer a spicier kick? Add more sriracha. Love extra crunch? Sprinkle on additional furikake or toasted sesame seeds. You can even swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand. -
Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe is ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare the rice, cook the salmon, and chop the vegetables in advance. When it’s time to eat, simply assemble everything in a bowl, drizzle with your favorite sauces, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in minutes. -
Inspired by Sushi Flavors
If you love sushi but don’t want to go through the effort of rolling it, this bowl is a fantastic alternative. The combination of soy sauce-marinated salmon, creamy avocado, crunchy vegetables, and umami-rich furikake seasoning mimics the flavors of a salmon sushi roll—without the extra work.
The Secret to Perfectly Cooked Salmon
The success of this dish depends largely on the quality and preparation of the salmon. Here are a few tips to ensure your salmon turns out flavorful and perfectly cooked every time:
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Salmon: If possible, choose wild caught salmon, as it tends to have a richer flavor and higher nutritional value than farm raised salmon. If using frozen salmon, make sure to fully thaw it before marinating.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: The quick marinade made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and green onions infuses the salmon with deep, savory flavors. Even just 10–30 minutes of marinating can make a big difference.
- Choose the Best Cooking Method: The salmon can be cooked in an oven or an air fryer. Baking at 425°F (220°C) ensures even cooking, while air frying at 380°F (193°C) results in crispy edges with a tender interior.
- Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked salmon becomes dry and loses its delicate texture. The key is to cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork.
The Role of Toppings and Seasonings
Toppings play a crucial role in enhancing both the flavor and texture of this dish. Each ingredient is carefully selected to create a perfect harmony of taste.
- Kewpie Mayo: This Japanese mayonnaise is richer and creamier than regular mayo because it’s made with egg yolks instead of whole eggs. It adds a velvety texture and a slight tangy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the salmon.
- Sriracha: This well-loved hot chili sauce adds the perfect amount of heat, cutting through the richness of the mayo and avocado.
- Furikake Seasoning: This Japanese rice seasoning is a blend of dried seaweed, sesame seeds, salt, and sometimes dried fish flakes. It adds a wonderful umami flavor and a hint of crunch.
Each of these toppings can be adjusted to your liking, making the dish as mild or as bold as you prefer.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about the Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl is its flexibility. You can easily adapt the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Swap the Rice: Instead of white rice, you can use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
- Try a Different Protein: If you don’t have salmon on hand, this recipe works great with shrimp, tofu, grilled chicken, or even canned tuna.
- Go Vegetarian or Vegan: Replace the salmon with marinated and pan-seared tofu or tempeh. You can also use a plant-based mayonnaise alternative for the Kewpie Mayo.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this dish completely gluten-free.
- Add More Crunch: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, crushed nori (seaweed), or crispy shallots on top for extra texture.
Pairing Ideas for a Complete Meal
While this salmon rice bowl is satisfying on its own, you can elevate your meal even further by pairing it with complementary sides and beverages.
- Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes a comforting addition to this meal. The umami flavors blend seamlessly with the salmon rice bowl.
- Edamame: Lightly salted and steamed edamame beans provide extra protein and a fun, interactive side dish.
- Seaweed Salad: The slightly tangy and savory flavors of seaweed salad make a refreshing contrast to the richness of the bowl.
- Green Tea or Sake: A cup of hot green tea helps cleanse the palate, while a light sake pairs beautifully with the umami notes in the dish.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try
If you’re looking for a recipe that is simple to make yet full of gourmet flavors, the Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for sushi lovers, busy professionals, meal preppers, and anyone who enjoys fresh and nourishing meals. With its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and endless customization options, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
By incorporating high-quality ingredients, a flavorful marinade, and a variety of toppings, this bowl transforms basic pantry staples into an exciting and restaurant-worthy dish. Best of all, it’s an easy, fuss-free meal that requires minimal cleanup just one bowl and a fork!
Conclusion
The Loaded Salmon Rice Bowl is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. It’s an ideal meal for those who want a balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special at-home dining experience, this dish is sure to impress.
So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, marinate that salmon, and assemble a bowl that not only looks incredible but tastes even better. Once you experience the rich umami flavors and the perfect combination of textures, this dish will quickly earn a top spot in your recipe collection!