Name: Crispy Salmon Bowls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup sliced cucumber; 1 avocado (sliced); 1/4 cup pickled red onions; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds; 2 green onions (sliced); Optional spicy mayo or sriracha for topping

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If you’re after a meal that hits all the high notes—crispy texture, punchy flavors, fresh veggies, and outright comfort—these Crispy Salmon Bowls are about to become your weeknight go-to. Imagine golden salmon fillets with shatteringly crisp skin, nestled on a bed of fragrant rice and surrounded by a colorful array of crunchy carrots, cool cucumbers, creamy avocado, and punchy pickled onions. Every element brings its own flair, and when finished with a drizzle of spicy mayo and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, these bowls are a riot of flavors and textures you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crispy Salmon Bowls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for these Crispy Salmon Bowls is refreshingly straightforward, but each component is purposeful. From the rich, flavorful salmon to the pop of fresh veggies, every item plays a part in building the layers of taste and texture that make these bowls truly irresistible.

Salmon Fillets (skin-on): The star of the show, skin-on salmon gets ultra-crispy and brings satisfying protein to the dish.
Olive Oil: Helps achieve that coveted golden, crispy skin while keeping the salmon moist inside.
Soy Sauce: Adds a savory umami kick and depth to the glaze; use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Honey: A touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy and helps with caramelization.
Garlic Powder: Layers in rich, aromatic flavor without overpowering the fish.
Paprika: Gives a subtle warmth and beautiful color to the salmon crust.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of bite and earthiness.
Cooked Jasmine or Brown Rice: The perfect soft, neutral base that soaks up all the saucy goodness.
Shredded Carrots: Bring crunch and a lovely sweetness that brightens every bite.
Sliced Cucumber: Offers a fresh, juicy contrast to the warm, rich salmon.
Avocado (sliced): Adds creamy texture and healthy fats for balance and richness.
Pickled Red Onions: Cuts through with tang and color—totally elevates the bowl.
Sesame Seeds: Nutty flavor and a touch of crunch make these the perfect finishing touch.
Green Onions (sliced): For freshness and a vibrant pop of green on top.
Spicy Mayo or Sriracha (optional): Take your bowl to the next level with some creamy heat.

How to Make Crispy Salmon Bowls

Step 1: Dry and Season the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry with paper towels—this is the secret to that beautifully crisp skin. Generously season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. The simple spice blend brings depth to the salmon, and drying the skin sets you up for that irresistible shatter when you take your first bite.

Step 2: Mix Up the Soy-Honey Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, and honey until smooth. This glaze is the flavor backbone of these Crispy Salmon Bowls, infusing each fillet with sweet-savory notes and a glossy, caramelized finish.

Step 3: Sear the Salmon to Perfect Crispiness

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high until hot—don’t skip the preheat. Carefully place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down and let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes. This hands-off moment is where the magic happens and the skin crisps up perfectly. Flip the fillets and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, brushing on that lovely soy-honey glaze during the final minute. The aroma alone will have you hungry!

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Start with a cozy bed of rice in each bowl, then arrange your crispy salmon fillets on top. Add generous scoops of shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and creamy avocado, then tuck in some pickled red onions for zing. Sprinkle over sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra crunch and pop of color.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

Drizzle everything with spicy mayo or a squeeze of sriracha if you love heat. This final flourish ties all the flavors together, giving your Crispy Salmon Bowls that signature restaurant-worthy look and taste. Serve warm and dig in!

How to Serve Crispy Salmon Bowls

Garnishes

Amp up your Crispy Salmon Bowls with a flurry of sesame seeds, a scattering of green onions, and a drizzle of spicy mayo. If you want to go all out, a sprig of fresh cilantro or a pinch of crushed nori adds amazing color, aroma, and a nod to your favorite poke bar. These little touches make every forkful feel extra special.

Side Dishes

While the bowls are generously loaded, they pair beautifully with a light miso soup, sautéed snow peas, or a crisp Asian slaw. If you’re feeling extra hungry, some steamed edamame or gyoza on the side really rounds out the meal for a dinner that checks every box: protein, veggies, and comfort!

Creative Ways to Present

Crispy Salmon Bowls are all about visual appeal—try assembling them in clear glass bowls for a layered look that shines at dinner parties. You can also arrange everything family-style for a fun DIY bowl bar, letting everyone build their ultimate creation. For a lunchbox win, pack the salmon and toppings separately from the rice and let everyone assemble when ready to eat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Crispy Salmon Bowls, simply store the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The rice and veggies will keep well for up to 3 days, while the salmon is best enjoyed within 2 days to retain the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

While the salmon itself can be frozen (wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months), the fresh veggies and rice are best enjoyed fresh. If you’d like to prep ahead, freeze cooked, unglazed salmon fillets and add fresh toppings just before assembling your bowls.

Reheating

To keep that salmon skin crispy, reheat fillets in a skillet over medium heat or in a hot oven for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the skin. Gently reheat your rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen it up, then assemble your bowl with freshly prepped veggies.

FAQs

Can I make Crispy Salmon Bowls ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely! Prep all the components in advance and store them separately for the freshest results. Just reheat the rice and salmon before serving, and add the veggies right before you eat for maximum crunch and color.

What’s the secret to super crispy salmon skin?

The trick lies in thoroughly patting the skin dry and adding the salmon to a preheated hot skillet oil-side down. Avoid moving it while it cooks and let the skin crisp up undisturbed. It pays off every single time!

Can I use another grain instead of rice?

Definitely! Crispy Salmon Bowls are incredibly versatile. Try swapping the rice with quinoa, farro, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb twist. Each grain brings its own personality and pairs wonderfully with the toppings.

How spicy are these bowls?

The base bowl itself is mild, making it perfect for families or spice-light eaters. The heat level is customizable—just add sriracha or a spicy mayo drizzle to taste if you love a little extra kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It’s super easy to make your Crispy Salmon Bowls gluten-free! Simply swap standard soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos when whisking up your glaze, and double-check your other ingredients. Everything else is naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home with minimal fuss, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Crispy Salmon Bowls. They’re bright, crave-worthy, and flexible enough to suit any night of the week. Give them a try and prepare to add a new staple to your dinner rotation!

Crispy Salmon Bowls Recipe

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4.9 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 bowls 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Crispy Salmon Bowls are a delicious and nutritious meal featuring pan-seared salmon atop a bed of rice, fresh veggies, and a drizzle of soy-honey glaze. Perfect for a quick and satisfying Asian-inspired dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crispy Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (skin-on, about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bowls:

2 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup sliced cucumber
1 avocado (sliced)
1/4 cup pickled red onions
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 green onions (sliced)
Optional spicy mayo or sriracha for topping

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Instructions

Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, and honey.
Cook the Salmon: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon fillets skin-side down until crispy. Flip and cook through, brushing with the soy-honey glaze.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice among four bowls. Top with salmon, carrots, cucumber, avocado, pickled onions, and green onions. Drizzle with spicy mayo or sriracha, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Serve warm.