Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

Teriyaki Salmon Bowls combine tender, flaky salmon with a flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce, rice, and fresh, colorful vegetables. Packed with nutrients and ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is a delicious, easy option for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • For the Salmon and Bowl:
    • 4 (5-6 oz) salmon filets
    • 3 cups cooked brown or white rice (or substitute quinoa/cauliflower rice)
    • 2 cups chopped cucumber
    • 1 cup shelled edamame, cooked and cooled
    • 1 cup shredded or julienned carrots
    • 1 medium avocado, sliced
    • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
    • Sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • For the Teriyaki Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup coconut aminos (or gluten-free tamari/soy sauce)
    • 1/4 cup honey (or substitute brown sugar)
    • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
    • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
    • 3 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp dried ginger)
    • 1 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot starch)
    • 2 tbsp warm water (to dissolve the cornstarch)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Salmon:
    • Place salmon filets in a shallow dish. Pat them dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
    • Mix all teriyaki sauce ingredients except cornstarch and water. Pour 1/3 cup of the sauce over the salmon, turning them to coat. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Salmon:
    • Preheat the oven to broil. Line a baking sheet with foil and place salmon skin-side down. Discard excess marinade.
    • Broil for 7-8 minutes until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
    • Add the remaining teriyaki sauce to a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
    • Dissolve cornstarch in warm water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Assemble the Bowls:
    • Place 3/4 cup of rice in each of 4 bowls. Top with a salmon filet, cucumbers, carrots, edamame, and avocado slices.
    • Drizzle with 2 tbsp of thickened teriyaki sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~560 kcal
  • Protein: ~40 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~65 g
  • Fiber: ~6 g
  • Fat: ~18 g (Saturated Fat: ~3 g)
  • Sodium: ~450 mg
  • Sugar: ~19 g

This nutrient-dense and flavorful bowl is perfect for satisfying your cravings while keeping your health on track!

Why Teriyaki Salmon Bowls Are a Favorite

  1. Rich and Flavorful Teriyaki Sauce
    The homemade teriyaki sauce in this recipe is the star of the show. A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, it elevates the dish to restaurant-quality status. Made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, it’s a healthier and more customizable alternative to store-bought sauces.
  2. Versatile and Customizable
    This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Substitute rice with quinoa for added protein, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. The toppings can also be swapped to include your favorite vegetables or seasonal produce.
  3. Nutrient-Dense and Balanced
    Each component of the Teriyaki Salmon Bowl contributes to its nutritional profile. Salmon provides omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The rice or quinoa offers complex carbohydrates, making it a complete and balanced meal.
  4. Quick and Easy Preparation
    Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those who want a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal cooking and assembly process make it accessible even for novice cooks.

The Benefits of Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

  1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
    Salmon is one of the best dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and reduce inflammation. Regularly including salmon in your diet can have numerous health benefits.
  2. Packed with Antioxidants
    The vegetables in this dish, such as cucumbers, carrots, and edamame, are rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and promote overall well-being.
  3. Supports Digestive Health
    With fiber-rich vegetables and rice, this meal supports healthy digestion. The combination of complex carbohydrates and fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps you feeling full longer.
  4. Protein-Packed Meal
    Each serving delivers a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Both the salmon and edamame contribute to the high protein content of this dish.

Tips for Preparing the Best Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

  1. Choose Fresh Salmon
    For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality salmon filets. Look for firm, vibrant flesh with no fishy odor.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Salmon
    Salmon is best when it’s tender and flaky. Overcooking can dry it out, so keep a close eye while broiling. The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork.
  3. Perfect the Teriyaki Sauce
    Achieving the right consistency for the sauce is key. Dissolve the cornstarch thoroughly in water before adding it to the sauce, and whisk constantly while cooking to avoid lumps.
  4. Prep Ingredients in Advance
    To save time, cook the rice and chop the vegetables ahead of time. This makes assembling the bowls quick and hassle-free, especially for meal prep.
  5. Presentation Matters
    Arrange the components neatly in the bowl for a visually appealing dish. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the glossy teriyaki glaze make this bowl as beautiful as it is delicious.

Customizing Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

  1. Dietary Substitutions
    • Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
    • Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
    • Vegan Alternative: Swap the salmon with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in the sauce.
  2. Experiment with Vegetables
    Add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences. Bell peppers, snap peas, and radishes work well and add a variety of textures and colors.
  3. Spice It Up
    For those who enjoy heat, add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle some red chili flakes over the finished bowl.
  4. Make It Extra Crunchy
    Top the bowl with roasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, peanuts, or sesame seeds, for added crunch and flavor.

Serving and Storing Teriyaki Salmon Bowls

  1. Serving Suggestions
    • Pair the bowls with a side of miso soup or a light salad for a complete meal.
    • Serve with chopsticks for an authentic dining experience.
  2. Storage Tips
    • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep the salmon and sauce separate from the vegetables to maintain freshness.
    • Reheating: Gently reheat the salmon and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Avoid overcooking the salmon during reheating.
  3. Meal Prep
    • Assemble the bowls in meal prep containers without the sauce and avocado. Add these just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

Why Teriyaki Salmon Bowls Are Perfect for Meal Prep

Meal prepping Teriyaki Salmon Bowls allows you to enjoy a nutritious, ready-to-eat meal throughout the week. The individual components—salmon, rice, sauce, and vegetables—hold up well when stored separately, making it easy to assemble fresh-tasting bowls even days after preparation. The homemade teriyaki sauce ensures you’re in control of the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and excess sodium often found in store-bought alternatives.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Salmon Bowls are more than just a meal—they’re a harmonious blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. This dish combines tender salmon, a rich homemade teriyaki sauce, and fresh vegetables to create a wholesome and satisfying experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, these bowls are a testament to how healthy eating can be both delicious and straightforward.

With their vibrant colors, nutrient-dense ingredients, and customizable options, Teriyaki Salmon Bowls are a versatile dish that caters to various dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a balanced meal to enjoy throughout the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the art of crafting these flavorful bowls, and enjoy the many benefits they bring to your table!

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