Flaked salmon over brown rice with edamame, avocado, and sesame dressing.
Ingredients
-
300 g
Salmon fillet
-
160 g dry
Brown rice
-
100 g shelled
Edamame
-
1
Avocado
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½ sliced
Cucumber
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2 tbsp
Soy sauce
-
1 tsp
Sesame oil
-
1 tbsp
Rice vinegar
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1 tsp
Sesame seeds
Instructions
1
Cook the rice
Cook 160g brown rice according to package directions (about 40 minutes). For extra flavor, cook in vegetable broth instead of water. Fluff with a fork when done.
2
Cook the salmon
Season a 300g salmon fillet with salt and pepper. Bake at 200°C for 12-14 minutes or pan-sear skin-side down for 4 minutes, flip, and cook 3 more minutes. Let rest, then flake into large chunks.
3
Prepare toppings
Shell 100g edamame (frozen is fine — microwave 2 minutes). Slice 1 avocado. Slice ½ cucumber into thin rounds. These fresh toppings contrast beautifully with the warm salmon and rice.
4
Make the dressing
Whisk 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar. This simple 3-ingredient dressing is the same one used in poke restaurants.
5
Assemble the bowls
Divide rice between two bowls. Arrange salmon chunks, edamame, avocado, and cucumber on top. Drizzle with dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately.
Why this recipe works
This Salmon Bowl combines nutritious ingredients that offer a cozy yet refreshing meal. The flaked salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, while the brown rice provides fiber, which aids digestion. Edamame adds plant-based protein, and the fresh avocado contributes healthy fats, making this dish both satisfying and wholesome.
The simple sesame dressing enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the ingredients. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this bowl is visually appealing and quick to prepare.
Cooking tips
Cooking this dish is straightforward. Ensuring you have quality ingredients, like fresh salmon and ripe avocados, will make a significant difference. Season the salmon well and consider cooking your brown rice in vegetable broth for an extra flavor boost.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Flake the salmon into large chunks rather than shredding for the best texture.
- Cook rice in broth instead of water for extra flavor.
- Slice avocado fresh when assembling — it browns quickly.
- Toasted sesame seeds add nutty flavor and crunch.
- A squeeze of lime juice before serving brightens everything.
Variations
- Poke-style: Use raw sushi-grade salmon cubes instead of cooked for an authentic poke bowl.
- Spicy salmon: Mix flaked salmon with sriracha mayo before adding to the bowl.
- Teriyaki bowl: Glaze the salmon with teriyaki sauce while cooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the salmon: Pull at 63°C for moist, flaky results.
- Mushy rice: Use proper water ratio and don't stir during cooking.
- Pre-slicing avocado: Avocado browns within hours. Always slice fresh.
How to Store
Store salmon and rice for up to 3 days refrigerated. Keep avocado and dressing separate. Add fresh avocado when eating.
What to Serve With This
- Miso soup: The classic companion for any Japanese-inspired bowl.
- Edamame appetizer: Extra edamame with sea salt to start.
Bowl Meals: The Smart Format
Bowl meals work because they're balanced by design — a base, a protein, vegetables, healthy fats, and a sauce. Once you master the formula, you can create infinite variations without a recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in a salmon bowl?
About 520 calories per serving with 34g protein, 48g carbs, and 22g fat. It's a complete, balanced meal with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon.
Can I use canned salmon?
Yes. Canned salmon is more affordable and still nutritious. Drain well, remove any skin/bones, and flake into chunks. It saves 15 minutes of cooking time.
Is a salmon bowl healthy?
Very. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids and protein, brown rice provides fiber, edamame adds plant protein, and avocado provides healthy fats. It hits all the nutritional bases.
What can I substitute for brown rice?
White sushi rice for a more traditional poke-style bowl, quinoa for extra protein, or cauliflower rice for low-carb. Each option changes the texture and macros.
Can I meal prep this bowl?
Yes. Store salmon and rice together, keep avocado and dressing separate. Slice avocado fresh to prevent browning. Keeps 3 days refrigerated.
Did you make this recipe?
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