Save 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 steaming method on busy weeknights when I wanted a healthy meal in minutes. It makes leftover salmon taste freshly cooked and comes together faster than ordering takeout.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2
- Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): 2 tablespoons
- 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: as desired
Instructions
- Arrange Rice and Salmon:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add Ice Cubes:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover Bowl:
- 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.
- Add Sauces:
- Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Arrange Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Add Finishing Touches:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Save It My kids love customizing their bowls with extra cucumber and spicy sauce. It’s a meal we return to whenever our fridge has leftover salmon or rice.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. For gluten-free, use tamari in place of soy sauce. Double-check all ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 410, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 27 g per serving
Save It Enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that brings leftovers back to life. This bowl is perfect for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What does the ice cube trick do?
Adding ice cubes before microwaving gently steams and moistens the rice and salmon, keeping them tender and preventing dryness.
- → Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, cooked fish such as trout, cod, or even tofu work well as substitutes for salmon in this bowl.
- → How do I make the bowl gluten-free?
Replace regular soy sauce with tamari to ensure the bowl remains gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
- → Which toppings pair well with this meal?
Try avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, toasted sesame seeds, scallion, chili flakes, or sriracha. You can also add shredded nori or edamame for color and nutrients.
- → What is the best way to serve this bowl?
Serve immediately after microwaving to enjoy the combination of warm rice and salmon with cool, fresh toppings.