The salmon and rice recipe is one of those dishes I always fall back on when I need something wholesome, quick, and absolutely delicious. Whether I’m cooking for one or feeding the whole family, it never fails me. The best part? It’s a one-bowl meal that satisfies both the comfort food cravings and the healthy eating goals we all try to balance.
I remember the first time I whipped this up after a long day. I had a fillet of salmon, leftover rice, and a few pantry staples, within 20 minutes, dinner was on the table and everyone asked for seconds. That’s when I knew this salmon and rice recipe wasn’t just a fluke, it was a keeper.
This dish fits beautifully into any kind of menu. It’s fast enough for weeknights, nutritious enough to fuel your workouts, and elegant enough to serve guests. Whether you’re craving a warm, umami-packed bowl or a bright, lemony twist, this recipe can go in countless directions with just a few small tweaks.
If you’re looking for a simple yet tasty dinner, this salmon and rice recipe is a perfect choice. It’s easy to make, healthy, and packed with flavor. Combining tender, flaky salmon with fluffy rice, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just seeking a quick meal option, this recipe won’t disappoint. Plus, you can make it with canned salmon for a more budget-friendly version without sacrificing flavor!
Table of contents
Why this xxx Works
This salmon and rice recipe hits all the right notes, simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. It’s built around two ingredients that are staples in kitchens around the world: flaky, omega-rich salmon and fluffy, versatile rice. But what elevates this version is how those basics are treated, with just the right seasoning, texture contrasts, and cooking method to bring out their best.
For starters, we lightly pan-sear or bake the salmon until it’s perfectly moist and tender. The rice can be jasmine, brown, or even wild—each option brings a unique personality to the bowl. I like to stir in garlic, soy sauce, and scallions, creating a deeply savory base that pairs perfectly with the buttery salmon.
Want to keep it light and clean? Go with lemon zest, olive oil, and herbs. Craving something heartier? Add sautéed spinach, a fried egg on top, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo. The flexibility here is incredible.
And best of all, this recipe can be gluten-free, dairy-free, or made low-carb depending on your needs. Just sub in cauliflower rice or swap soy sauce for tamari.
In short, it’s a crowd-pleaser, a nutritionist’s dream, and a cook’s best friend.
Recipe Card
Salmon and Rice Recipe
Cuisine: AsianDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes20
minutes450
kcalTry this flavorful salmon and rice recipe for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this nutritious dish in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- For the Salmon
4 salmon fillets (about 150g each)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
- For the Rice
1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
2 cups water
1 tbsp butter
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Salmon:
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Coat the salmon fillets with the marinade and let them sit for 10 minutes. - Cook the Rice:
In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add rice, butter, and salt.
Reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
Fluff the rice with a fork and add chopped green onions if desired. - Cook the Salmon:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets skin-side down.
Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the salmon is golden brown and cooked through.
Brush the salmon with any remaining marinade as it cooks. - Serve:
Place a portion of rice on a plate and top it with a salmon fillet. Drizzle with extra sauce if needed.
Notes
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor, but canned salmon can also be a convenient option.
- This recipe can be adapted with various marinades to suit your taste preferences.
Tips for a Delicious Salmon and Rice Recipe
- Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh salmon will always taste better. Choose fillets that are firm, moist, and have a bright color.
- Marinate Longer for Deeper Flavor: If you have time, marinate the salmon for up to 30 minutes for a more intense taste.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Cooking salmon on medium heat helps it cook evenly without drying out.
- Use Cold Leftover Rice or Dry Fresh Rice: Cold rice from the fridge is ideal for stir-frying—it won’t get mushy. If you’re using fresh-cooked rice, spread it out to cool and dry a bit before combining it with the salmon.
Fun Twists on the Classic: Variants of the Salmon and Rice Recipe
1. Spicy Teriyaki Salmon and Rice
If you’re a fan of bold, sweet heat, this one’s for you. Glaze the salmon in a mixture of teriyaki sauce, sriracha, honey, and garlic. Bake or pan-sear it and serve over rice with sautéed bell peppers and broccoli. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a takeout-style experience at home.
2. Mediterranean Salmon and Herbed Rice
This variant is light, bright, and full of color. Season the salmon with lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. For the rice, mix in chopped parsley, dill, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese. A dollop of tzatziki on the side makes it even better.
3. Salmon Fried Rice with Veggies
Got leftover salmon and rice? Turn them into a speedy stir-fry. In a hot skillet, sauté garlic, ginger, carrots, peas, and green onions. Add cold rice and flaked salmon, then season with soy sauce and sesame oil. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying.
4. Creamy Salmon and Rice Bowl
Perfect for cooler months, this version combines the richness of seared salmon with a creamy sauce made from Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Pair with jasmine rice and steamed greens like spinach or kale for a cozy, nourishing meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can substitute white rice with brown rice. However, note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
To add some heat, include chili flakes or Sriracha in the marinade.
Ensure that the soy sauce used is gluten-free, and the dish will be suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Why You Should Make This Salmon and Rice Recipe Tonight
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing, this Salmon and Rice recipe is your new go-to. It’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner yet feels special enough for a weekend treat. The combination of perfectly seared salmon, fluffy rice, and fresh toppings creates a harmony of flavors and textures that will leave you coming back for more.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can swap in your favorite types of rice, use different veggies, or even try different seasonings for the salmon. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability to your personal taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to get dinner on the table or someone who loves healthy, delicious meals, this recipe has you covered.
So, why not give it a try tonight? It’s a dinner that’s not only easy but also packed with nutrients and fresh flavors. The crispy, juicy salmon paired with the perfectly cooked rice is an unbeatable combination.
If you are looking for more delicious dinner ideas, check out the Red Beans and Rice Camellia Recipe, Salmon Loaf Recipe, and the Chicken Cutlet Recipe!
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