Cozy Salmon Rice Bowls

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Introduction
These Cozy Salmon Rice Bowls are the perfect comfort meal, featuring tender baked or pan-seared salmon, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Topped with a creamy dressing or sauce, this dish is warm, flavorful, and full of nutrients. Ideal for a quick dinner or meal prep!

Ingredients

For the Salmon:

  • 2 salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for garnish)

For the Rice:

  • 1 cup white rice or brown rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups water or broth (for extra flavor)

For the Bowl:

  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup red cabbage, shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 1/4 cup edamame (optional, for extra protein)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp sriracha or chili paste (optional, for spice)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (or broth).
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes (for white rice) or 20-25 minutes (for brown rice), until tender and the water is absorbed.
  4. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Drizzle the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. For baked salmon: Place the fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  4. For pan-seared salmon: Heat a bit of oil in the skillet and cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha (if using). Adjust the sauce to your taste by adding more honey for sweetness or more sriracha for heat.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

  1. Divide the cooked rice between two bowls.
  2. Top with sliced avocado, cucumber, shredded carrots, red cabbage, edamame (if using), and green onions.
  3. Place a piece of cooked salmon on top of each bowl.
  4. Drizzle with the sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Garnish with fresh lemon juice and enjoy your cozy, flavorful salmon rice bowls!

Tips:

  • You can use other grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different base.
  • For a lighter version, swap the creamy sauce with a simple lemon-tahini dressing.
  • If you like your salmon crispy, sear it in the pan first and then finish in the oven.

These Cozy Salmon Rice Bowls are not only comforting but also packed with protein, healthy fats, and vibrant vegetables.

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