Description
Savor Mediterranean-inspired “crispy salmon & rice bowl” where golden-seared salmon nestles atop herbed rice, kissed with zesty lemon. Fresh ingredients blend seamlessly, delivering restaurant-quality comfort you can craft in minutes at home.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each), skin on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Rice and Vegetables:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro or microgreens, for garnish (optional)
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Infuse the rice with depth by cooking it according to package guidelines, then elevate its flavor profile by gently folding in soy sauce and sesame oil, creating a savory foundation for the dish.
- Prepare the salmon by meticulously patting the fillets dry, ensuring maximum crispiness. Season generously with a harmonious blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to enhance its natural richness.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high temperature, creating the perfect environment for achieving a golden, crisp exterior. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down, allowing them to develop a beautiful caramelized crust for 4-5 minutes.
- Gracefully flip the salmon and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, monitoring until the fish flakes effortlessly and reaches optimal doneness.
- Construct the bowl by layering the aromatic, seasoned rice as a robust base. Delicately position the perfectly crisp salmon atop the rice, creating a visually appealing centerpiece.
- Artfully garnish with an array of fresh toppings: crisp cucumber slices, creamy avocado, vibrant greens, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to add texture and visual interest.
- Add a final flourish of fresh cilantro or parsley, and complete the presentation with a zesty lime wedge to brighten the entire composition.
- Serve immediately, offering optional accompaniments like soy sauce or a drizzle of spicy mayo or tangy sesame dressing to allow personalized flavor enhancement.
Notes
- Skin Crispiness: Pat salmon completely dry with paper towels to achieve maximum golden-brown, crispy exterior without excess moisture.
- Temperature Mastery: Use medium-high heat and ensure skillet is hot before adding salmon to create perfect sear without burning fish.
- Seasoning Flexibility: Experiment with different spice blends like Japanese furikake, Cajun seasoning, or za’atar for unique flavor profiles.
- Dietary Adaptations: Replace white rice with cauliflower rice for low-carb version or use quinoa for protein-rich alternative that suits gluten-free diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 72 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 29 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg