Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl

Name: Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1 cup brown rice; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and peas); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional toppings: avocado slices, sesame seeds, or green onions

Highlighted under: Feel-Good Healthy Eats

I love whipping up this Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl for a quick, nutritious meal. It combines tender, flaky salmon with fluffy rice and vibrant veggies, making it a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether I’m in a rush or looking for something wholesome, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, the fresh ingredients pack a punch of nutrients, ensuring that I feel satisfied without any guilt. Each bite is a celebration of health and taste, and it’s incredibly easy to customize to suit my preferences.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:00:48.704Z

I vividly recall the first time I made this Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl. I was tired yet craving something delicious and healthy. I quickly marinated the salmon in soy sauce and honey, creating a simple yet flavorful blend. Cooking it in a skillet allowed for the outside to get a nice sear while keeping the inside moist. It’s amazing how a few fresh ingredients can transform a simple bowl into something extraordinary.

As I layered the ingredients—salmon over rice and colorful veggies—I got excited about how customizable this dish is. Adding avocado or pickled ginger takes it to the next level! This bowl not only looks beautiful but also is loaded with nutrients, making it a regular in my meal prep rotation.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights
Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon
Customizable with your favorite veggies and toppings

Important Cooking Techniques

When cooking the brown rice, make sure to keep the heat low once it reaches a simmer. This allows the rice to cook evenly without becoming mushy. If you find that your rice is undercooked after the suggested 30 minutes, simply add a few more tablespoons of water, cover it again, and let it steam for an additional 5-10 minutes until fully tender.

For the salmon, pan-searing is a fantastic technique to achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. You can test the doneness by gently pressing the fillet; it should flake easily and the color should transform from translucent to opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain its natural juiciness and richness.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Salmon is the star of this dish, not only for its flavor but also for its beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health. If fresh salmon isn't available, you can substitute it with canned salmon or even grilled chicken for a lean protein option. However, be mindful that cooking times may vary, particularly for chicken, which should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables based on your preferences and what's seasonal. Zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas can add a delightful crunch and color to your bowl. You can also use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just be sure to add them straight from the freezer into the skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are heated through but not overcooked.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl is perfect for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch of rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it easy to assemble your bowls throughout the week. Just be sure to cool the rice to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.

If you plan to dress up the bowl with toppings like avocado or sesame seeds, I recommend adding these right before serving for optimal freshness. If you need to store leftovers, keep the salmon and veggies separate from the rice to maintain their textures, and consume them within 2-3 days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl:

Ingredients

2 salmon fillets
1 cup brown rice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and peas)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: avocado slices, sesame seeds, or green onions

Ensure you have everything prepared before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Easy Healthy Salmon Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the brown rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until all the water is absorbed.

Prepare the Salmon

In a bowl, mix soy sauce and honey. Coat the salmon fillets with this marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and flaky.

Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same skillet, add your mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are vibrant and tender.

Assemble the Bowl

Spoon the cooked rice into bowls, top with salmon and stir-fried veggies. Add any optional toppings you desire.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious salmon rice bowl!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different marinades or add your preferred seasonal veggies for variations.

Variations to Try

For a little zest, consider incorporating citrus into the marinade. Adding a splash of lime or lemon juice can brighten the flavors and cool the richness of the salmon. Alternatively, try experimenting with different sauces like teriyaki or sriracha for a spicy kick.

If you're craving a more substantial bowl, you can add a fried egg on top for an extra layer of richness and nutrition. The runny yolk can serve as a satisfying sauce that brings all the ingredients together beautifully.

Helpful Troubleshooting Tips

If your salmon doesn't crisp up as desired, ensure that the pan is hot enough before placing the fillets. A medium-high heat is ideal, and you can test this by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the pan; they should sizzle immediately. An adequately heated skillet helps achieve that golden crust.

In case your rice turns out sticky, try fluffing it gently with a fork once it’s cooked and letting it sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps separate the grains. For a drier texture, you can reduce the water slightly next time, but be cautious not to undercook it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with trout, tilapia, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ Is it okay to meal prep this dish?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, just store the salmon and rice separately until ready to eat.

→ How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is no longer translucent in the center.

→ What other toppings can I add?

You can top it with avocado, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, green onions, or even a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick!