Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl

Name: Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 lb salmon fillet; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup carrots, julienned; 1/2 cup edamame; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Sliced green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Lifestyle Meals

I love making this Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl because it combines all my favorite flavors into one vibrant dish. Salmon is loaded with nutrients and pairs perfectly with fresh veggies and fluffy rice. The best part is how quick it is to prepare! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal time, I can whip up a nutritious meal that keeps everyone satisfied. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a relaxing weekend, this rice bowl is my go-to for a wholesome and delicious dinner.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-02-28T09:52:47.430Z

Creating the Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl has been a delightful culinary adventure for me. I love experimenting with different vegetables and toppings to keep this dish exciting. Recently, I added some sliced avocado and was amazed at how they enriched the flavor. Another secret is marinating the salmon for just a few minutes to infuse extra taste without overwhelming it.

One of my favorite tips is to use leftover rice, which makes the bowl come together even faster. This dish is perfect for meal prep! I often prepare several servings at once and refrigerate them, making it super easy to enjoy a healthy meal with little effort throughout the week.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutrient-packed ingredients that promote healthy living
Customizable with your favorite vegetables and toppings
Perfect for meal prep – make it in advance for busy days

      

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

The key to a delicious salmon rice bowl lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, wild-caught salmon offers a rich flavor and superior nutritional profile compared to farmed varieties. When selecting your salmon, look for vibrant color and firm flesh. The veggies, such as broccoli and carrots, should be crisp and brightly colored, indicating freshness. Using high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil enhances the umami flavor, making the dish more satisfying.

Another important aspect is the rice. Sushi rice or jasmine rice works beautifully for this recipe, achieving that perfect fluffy texture. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative. Each option brings its own flavor and texture, allowing for customization while still maintaining the overall integrity of the bowl.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

Baking the salmon at 400°F ensures it cooks evenly and stays moist. A tip I recommend is to check for doneness at the 12-minute mark; the fish should easily flake with a fork and appear slightly opaque. If you prefer a bit of a char, switch on the broiler for the last minute, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. This method also creates a delightful contrast with the tender vegetables.

Steaming the veggies is not just a cooking method but also a way to retain colors and nutrients. For broccoli and carrots, steaming for about 5-7 minutes until they are bright and just tender is ideal. Adding the edamame for the last 2 minutes ensures they remain vibrant green and firm, providing the perfect balance of texture in the rice bowl.

Ingredients

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked rice
1 lb salmon fillet
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup carrots, julienned
1/2 cup edamame
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cook the Vegetables

While the salmon is baking, steam the broccoli and carrots until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add edamame for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Bowl

In a large bowl, layer the cooked rice at the bottom. Top with the steamed vegetables and flaked salmon. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the salmon with another protein like chicken or tofu. For an extra flavor boost, add your favorite spicy sauce or a drizzle of sriracha.

Customize Your Bowl

One of the best parts of this Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl is how versatile it is. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, or even kale can be great substitutes, adding different flavors and textures. Experimenting with toppings like avocado slices, pickled ginger, or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate this dish further, making it unique each time you prepare it.

For those looking to reduce carbohydrates, consider using spiraled zucchini or riced broccoli in place of traditional rice. This not only lowers the carb content but also adds a refreshing crunch. Just remember to season these alternatives well since they have a milder flavor base.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep since all components can be prepared in advance. Cook the rice, bake the salmon, and steam the vegetables; then, store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to quickly assemble your bowl even on the busiest days. Just remember to reheat the components gently, either in the microwave or on the stovetop, to maintain the best texture.

If you want to freeze portions, be aware that the texture of the salmon may change upon thawing. Freezing the rice and veggies is a better option, as they preserve their properties well. When ready to eat, you can quickly reheat them while baking a fresh piece of salmon to keep that flaky texture intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Frozen salmon can be just as nutritious as fresh.

→ What can I substitute for rice?

Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives if you're looking for something different or lower in carbs.

→ Can I make this bowl in advance?

Absolutely! Just store each component separately in the fridge and assemble when ready to eat.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it's perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare multiple servings ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.