If you’re staring at last night’s salmon and wondering how to turn it into something irresistibly delicious, I’ve got you covered! The Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe is a vibrant, effortless meal that transforms humble leftovers into a satisfying new dish packed with fresh veggies, rich flavor, and eye-catching color. Whether you’ve grilled, baked, or pan-seared your salmon, this bowl is the perfect way to make the most of every bite. Get ready — a healthy, crave-worthy lunch (or dinner) is just a few, fun steps away!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how simple and flexible the ingredients in this Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe are! Each one isn’t just for show — they all bring something wonderful to the table, from luscious salmon to crunchy veggies and a zippy sauce that ties it all together.
- Cooked rice: White or brown rice forms the hearty, comforting base for your bowl — use leftovers or your favorite quick-cooking variety.
- Leftover cooked salmon (flaked): The star of the show, this gives you tender, savory protein without any extra work.
- Avocado (sliced): Buttery and creamy, avocado adds richness and gorgeous color.
- Shredded carrots: For a splash of color and crunch that brightens every bite.
- Cucumber (sliced): Cool, crisp, and refreshing, cucumber balances the bold flavors beautifully.
- Soy sauce or tamari: This savory staple brings essential umami and saltiness to the mix.
- Sesame oil: Just a dash gives your bowl a deep, nutty aroma.
- Rice vinegar: Bright and tangy, it quietly lifts up the whole dish.
- Mayonnaise: The base for your creamy, decadent spicy mayo swirl.
- Sriracha (optional): Bring on the heat if that’s your thing — it’s totally up to you!
- Chopped green onions: A sprinkle of freshness and a pretty pop of green.
- Sesame seeds: For subtle crunch and a little toasty finish.
- Lime wedges: A squeeze of citrus makes all the flavors shine and keeps everything lively.
How to Make Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Warm Up the Rice
Start by reheating your rice until it’s steaming-hot and fluffy — you can do this in the microwave for about a minute or on the stovetop if you prefer. The warmth of the rice helps wake up the flavors of the entire bowl and is so comforting beneath the cool, crisp toppings.
Step 2: Whisk the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Give it a good whisk until everything is smooth and blended. This savory-tangy dressing adds a delicious punch to the finished bowl, infusing every ingredient with flavor.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Mayo
If you like a little heat, stir together the mayonnaise and sriracha in another small bowl. This creamy, spicy drizzle is completely optional, but it’s wildly addictive and really takes the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe to the next level.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Now for the fun part! In a generously sized serving bowl, spread out the warm rice as your base. Next, arrange the flaked salmon, silky avocado slices, vivid carrots, crunchy cucumbers, and chopped green onions on top. The more colorful and abundant it looks, the more tempting it will be!
Step 5: Drizzle and Top
Pour the whisked soy sauce mixture evenly all over the bowl, making sure every layer gets a bit of that yumminess. Dollop or zigzag the spicy mayo on top (as much as you like!). Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds for that signature nutty crunch, and tuck a lime wedge on the side for when you’re ready for a zesty hit.
How to Serve Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Scatter an extra handful of chopped green onions and more sesame seeds for an Instagram-ready finish. If you have them, add a few nori strips, some pickled ginger, or even torn fresh herbs like cilantro — all of these elevate the bowl and make it uniquely yours!
Side Dishes
This Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe is honestly a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a miso soup, a crisp Asian-style slaw, or steamed edamame if you want to round things out. Even a simple side of seaweed salad can be a fantastic addition.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Build your rice and toppings in a mason jar for a lunchbox twist, or lay everything out grab-and-go style for a DIY rice bowl dinner party. You can also serve as a deconstructed platter for a fun, interactive family meal — everyone builds their own bowl!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover components in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The rice, salmon, and veggies will all hold up for up to two days, but wait to cut the avocado and add dressing until just before assembling for the freshest flavor and texture.
Freezing
While you can freeze extra cooked salmon and rice separately for up to one month, I don’t recommend freezing this dish fully assembled. Veggies and avocado don’t thaw well and can lose their appealing texture. For the best results, freeze the protein and rice, and add fresh toppings when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat rice and salmon gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep things moist. As soon as everything is warm, assemble your bowl with all the fresh, crunchy veggies and drizzle with sauces for a just-made taste and look.
FAQs
What kind of salmon works best for the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe?
Any cooked salmon is perfect — grilled, baked, or pan-seared. Even salmon with a glaze or marinade from last night’s dinner will add extra layers of flavor to your rice bowl!
Can I substitute the rice for another base?
Absolutely! Try using quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. The Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe is super adaptable to whatever you have in your pantry.
What other veggies can I add?
Think shredded cabbage, edamame, snap peas, bell peppers, or radishes. This recipe is a great catch-all for leftover veggies — just aim for a mix of colors and textures to keep things interesting.
How spicy does the sriracha mayo make the recipe?
You control the heat! Start with just a dab and add more to taste. If you want zero spice, just leave out the sriracha; you’ll still get a creamy, delicious topping.
Is the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, with a simple trick! Portion out rice, salmon, and dressing in separate containers and add freshly cut veggies and avocado right before serving for the ultimate grab-and-go healthy meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about turning your leftovers into a vibrant, wholesome new meal, and the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe is proof that quick and easy can still be totally crave-worthy. Give it a try — I’m sure you’ll love seeing those leftovers in a whole new light!
Print
Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook, Assembly
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together quickly using leftover salmon and simple ingredients. With a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this Asian-inspired dish is both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Rice Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup leftover cooked salmon (flaked)
- ½ avocado (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup cucumber (sliced)
Sauce and Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Reheat the Rice: Warm up the cooked rice in a microwave or on the stovetop.
- Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar in a small bowl.
- Make Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha for a spicy kick, if desired.
- Assemble the Bowl: Layer rice, salmon, avocado, carrots, cucumber, and green onions in a serving bowl. Drizzle with the sauce, add a dollop of spicy mayo, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- Customize with toppings like edamame, pickled ginger, or nori strips.
- Works well with various types of leftover salmon.
- For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
