Pin It A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I first tried this bowl when I was searching for a way to make leftover salmon taste just as delicious as freshly cooked, and the microwave steaming trick made all the difference for bringing everything back to life.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup, leftover
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2 for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons, for gluten-free use tamari
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional chili flakes or sriracha: for added heat
Instructions
- Layer Leftovers:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Steam:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, or until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
- Dress:
- Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Top:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Finish:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Pin It My kids love assembling their own bowls with the toppings, and we always end up making extra rice just to enjoy this meal again the next day.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need for this quick recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains fish, soy, and sesame. Substitute tamari for soy sauce to keep it gluten-free, and always double-check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 410 calories, 18 g of fat, 36 g of carbohydrates, and 27 g of protein.
Pin It Enjoy this speedy meal any day of the week. Perfect for lunch or dinner, it turns leftovers into a restaurant-worthy bowl.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How does the ice cube method improve reheating?
The ice cubes create steam in the microwave, gently warming rice and salmon, preventing dryness.
- → Can I use different fish or protein?
Yes, substitute cooked white fish, trout, or tofu for a similar bowl experience.
- → Which toppings work best for this bowl?
Fresh avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, and sesame seeds add great flavor and texture.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Check all labels to confirm.
- → What tools do I need to prepare it?
A microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are required.
- → How can I add more color or nutrients?
Try shredded nori, edamame, or carrot ribbons for added nutrition and visual appeal.