Save A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I discovered this bowl when searching for a way to make lunch out of last night's salmon and rice, and now it's my favorite speedy lunch.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup, leftover
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2, for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons, for gluten-free option
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional: chili flakes or sriracha
Instructions
- Prepare bowl:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add steam:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover and heat:
- Cover bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 2 – 3 minutes, until ice cubes melt and ingredients are moist and warmed.
- Finish:
- Remove from microwave, drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion, and add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately.
Save This rice bowl has become my family's go-to lunch for busy days and everyone enjoys customizing their toppings.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need for preparation.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy, and sesame. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari and check all labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save Try this simple trick next time you have leftover salmon & rice: you may never toss them out again.
Recipe FAQ
- → How does the ice cube method benefit the dish?
Placing ice cubes atop rice and salmon allows steam to gently warm and rehydrate them without overcooking or drying out.
- → Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?
Yes, cooked fish, tofu, or even shredded chicken work well as protein alternatives in this bowl.
- → What toppings can be added for extra flavor?
Fresh avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, toasted sesame seeds, and chili flakes create a balanced, vibrant finish.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce, and always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet gluten-free requirements.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
You’ll need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board for assembling and heating the bowl.
- → How can I enhance the nutritional value?
Add edamame, shredded nori, or carrot ribbons for extra nutrients and color.