Salmon Burrito Bowl Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate healthy comfort food, let me introduce you to your new weeknight hero: the Salmon Burrito Bowl. This vibrant Mexican-inspired bowl delivers flaky, spice-rubbed baked salmon paired with all your favorite burrito fixings, tucked conveniently into a nourishing bowl. Every bite is bursting with color, zesty flavor, creamy avocado, and satisfying textures—plus, it’s a breeze to prep in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for two or meal-prepping for the week, this Salmon Burrito Bowl fits the bill for wholesome, exciting dinners you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for a Salmon Burrito Bowl couldn’t be easier. Each element brings a special magic—color, crunch, spice, or creaminess—working together to create a balanced, restaurant-worthy meal at home. Here’s what makes every bite shine:
- Salmon fillets: The protein-packed star—rich, flaky, and perfect for holding onto those bold spices.
- Olive oil: Helps the spice rub stick and keeps the salmon juicy during baking.
- Chili powder: Adds an earthy heat that defines the bowl’s Mexican-inspired flavor.
- Cumin: Lends warm, aromatic undertones that make the salmon extra savory.
- Paprika: Infuses a gorgeous color and gentle smokiness.
- Garlic powder: Brings an irresistible savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: Essential for rounding out all the vibrant flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right touch of sharpness to highlight the salmon.
- Cooked rice (brown or white): The perfect burrito bowl base—use your favorite for a personalized touch.
- Black beans: Hearty, protein-rich, and wonderfully satisfying.
- Corn: Lends natural sweetness and a pop of sunny color (fresh, frozen, or canned all work!).
- Avocado: Creamy slices add that classic burrito richness and healthy fats.
- Cherry tomatoes: Juicy bursts of freshness that brighten every bite.
- Red onion: Brings a subtle crunch and a bit of sharpness.
- Fresh cilantro: The finishing sparkle—herbaceous, fresh, and vibrant.
- Lime wedges: A final squeeze of citrus wakes up all your flavors just before serving.
- Optional toppings (Greek yogurt, salsa, shredded cheese): Customize your bowl with extra creaminess, tang, or zest—let your cravings lead the way!
How to Make Salmon Burrito Bowl
Step 1: Prep and Season the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will make clean-up a total breeze! Pat your salmon fillets dry, then rub them with olive oil so that the spice blend really adheres. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently massage this fragrant mixture all over the salmon. Don’t be shy, make sure every surface is well covered for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Bake the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on your prepared baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Let them bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. This method keeps the salmon tender and juicy, and the spices meld beautifully while baking. You’ll know it’s perfect when the fish is opaque and lightly golden at the edges.
Step 3: Build the Burrito Bowls
While your salmon is working its magic in the oven, set out two bowls and divide your cooked rice between them. Now the fun part: layer on the black beans, corn, creamy avocado slices, bright cherry tomatoes, and vibrant red onion. Each layer adds flavor and texture, making these bowls as gorgeous as they are delicious.
Step 4: Assemble and Top with Salmon
Once the salmon is cooked to perfection, gently flake it into large, juicy pieces. Nestle the salmon on top of each bowl, letting the flaky fish crown your colorful creation. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for that restaurant-style wow-factor, and tuck in a few lime wedges for squeezing right before your first bite.
Step 5: Add Final Touches (Optional)
Here’s where you truly make your Salmon Burrito Bowl your own! Add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess, spoon on a favorite salsa for zing, or sprinkle over some shredded cheese if you crave a more decadent bowl. Serve the bowls warm and get ready for flavor fireworks!
How to Serve Salmon Burrito Bowl
Garnishes
The finishing touches are what transform a good bowl into a spectacular one. For a classic Salmon Burrito Bowl, a big handful of bright cilantro and a couple of lime wedges offer an instant pop of freshness. If you love a creamy texture, a spoonful of Greek yogurt (or a drizzle of your favorite avocado crema) is always welcome. Don’t forget a scatter of extra sliced scallions or a sprinkle of chili flakes if you’re feeling bold!
Side Dishes
While the Salmon Burrito Bowl is hearty enough to hold its own, some crunchy tortilla chips on the side are always a win—they’re perfect for scooping up any stray beans or salsa. If you’re feeding a crowd, consider a light side salad dressed in a zesty vinaigrette, or some simple sautéed peppers and onions to echo the bowl’s bold flavors. A light fruit salad is also a lovely touch, especially on warm days.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, turn your Salmon Burrito Bowl into a vibrant platter for sharing—just arrange all the components on a large tray and let guests build their own bowl. Or, serve everything taco-style, with warmed tortillas on the side. For meal prep, layer ingredients in mason jars for grab-and-go lunches that are as pretty as they are practical. However you serve it, this Salmon Burrito Bowl will steal the show!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got leftovers, store each component separately if possible to keep everything fresh and delicious. Salmon, rice, beans, and veggies will all last up to 3 days in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Wait to slice your avocado and add fresh cilantro until you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
While some components like rice, black beans, and salmon freeze well, keep garnishes and avocado fresh for serving time. To freeze, portion the salmon, rice, and beans in individual freezer-safe containers; they’ll last about 2 months. When craving a Salmon Burrito Bowl, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or gently reheat straight from the freezer.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the salmon, rice, and beans in the microwave or a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Assemble your bowl with fresh toppings and garnishes just before eating to preserve all those gorgeous textures. A squeeze of lime will bring revived brightness, making each bowl taste freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While salmon brings a rich, buttery flavor to the burrito bowl, you can easily swap in another firm fish like cod, tilapia, or even shrimp. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as more delicate fish may need less time in the oven.
Can I make this Salmon Burrito Bowl dairy-free?
Definitely! The basic recipe is already dairy-free, and you can skip the Greek yogurt and cheese if you’d like. Add extra avocado or a dairy-free sauce for creamy texture without the dairy.
How can I make this bowl low-carb or grain-free?
For a lightened-up twist, replace the rice with a base of cauliflower rice or mixed greens. You’ll still get all the vibrant flavors and satisfying toppings, but with fewer carbs!
Is this Salmon Burrito Bowl good for meal prep?
It’s fantastic for meal prep! Simply cook the salmon and rice in advance, pack each ingredient separately, and assemble just before serving. This keeps everything fresh, and you’ll have crave-worthy lunches or dinners ready in minutes.
What can I do if I don’t have an oven?
No oven? No problem! You can easily pan-sear the salmon in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or even use an air fryer. Both methods yield a deliciously flaky salmon for your burrito bowl.
Final Thoughts
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and endless ways to personalize, the Salmon Burrito Bowl will become a staple in your kitchen in no time. Give this recipe a try the next time you want something fresh, filling, and full of flavor—you’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying homemade burrito bowls can be!
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Salmon Burrito Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Salmon Burrito Bowl recipe. Baked chili-spiced salmon served over a bed of rice and topped with black beans, corn, avocado, and more, this bowl is a satisfying and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked brown or white rice
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- lime wedges for serving
- optional toppings: Greek yogurt, salsa, shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- While the salmon bakes, assemble the bowls: divide the rice between two bowls and top with black beans, corn, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into large pieces and place on top of the bowls. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Add your choice of optional toppings. Serve warm.
Pat salmon dry and rub with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub seasoning mix evenly over salmon. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Notes
- You can swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.
- The salmon can also be pan-seared or air-fried.
- Meal prep friendly—just store toppings separately until ready to eat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg