Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Featured in: Dinner Winners

This dish breathes new life into cooked salmon and rice by using a simple microwave steaming method, keeping ingredients moist and flavorful. After warming, top with avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, and a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil. Add toasted sesame seeds, scallions, and a hint of spice for brightness and balance. Ready in minutes, this bowl offers a satisfying fusion of nutrition, convenience, and vibrant taste, perfect for a quick meal without sacrificing freshness or quality.

Updated on Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:19:00 GMT
Delicious Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl topped with avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds.  Save
Delicious Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl topped with avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds. | tastybattle.com

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 recipe when searching for a fast lunch option using last night's salmon. The microwave steaming method was surprisingly effective and made the bowl extra moist and tasty.

Ingredients

  • Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown, leftover
  • Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
  • Ice cubes: 2, for microwave steaming
  • Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons, or tamari for gluten-free
  • 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

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Instructions

Microwave Bowl Prep:
Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Top evenly with flaked salmon.
Steam with Ice Cubes:
Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
Cover and Microwave:
Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, until ice cubes melt and rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
Add Sauces:
Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Arrange Toppings:
Top with avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger.
Finish & Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallion on top. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired. Serve immediately.
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This has quickly become a family favorite for busy weeknights. Everyone enjoys adding their own toppings, making dinner a fun and interactive moment.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need for this recipe.

Allergen Information

Contains fish, soy, and sesame. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and always check ingredient labels.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides 410 calories, 18 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.

Quick and easy Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl, perfect for effortless weeknight meals.  Save
Quick and easy Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl, perfect for effortless weeknight meals. | tastybattle.com

This bowl is satisfying and simple—perfect for a quick meal any time. Enjoy customizing with your favorite toppings!

Recipe Questions

→ How does the ice cube trick work?

Ice cubes gently steam the salmon and rice, keeping them moist and preventing dryness during microwaving.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Yes, substitute any cooked fish or tofu for salmon. Adjust toppings as desired for added variety.

→ What toppings complement this bowl?

Recommended toppings include avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, scallions, and chili flakes or sriracha.

→ Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and confirm all ingredient labels to ensure gluten-free status.

→ Any ideas for additional flavor?

Add shredded nori, edamame, or carrot ribbons for extra color, nutrients, and texture in your bowl.

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Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Quickly refresh salmon and rice with a clever microwave steam, topped with fresh veggies and savory seasonings.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Alex Ramirez


Skill level Easy

Heritage Fusion

Output 2 Portions

Nutritional specifications No dairy

Components

Leftovers

01 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
02 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked into large pieces

Microwave Steaming

01 2 ice cubes

Toppings

01 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
02 1 teaspoon sesame oil
03 1 avocado, sliced
04 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
05 2 tablespoons pickled ginger
06 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
07 1 scallion, finely sliced
08 Chili flakes or sriracha, optional

Directions

Phase 01

Arrange Rice and Salmon: Transfer cooked rice into a microwave-safe bowl and distribute flaked salmon over the surface.

Phase 02

Prepare for Steaming: Place two ice cubes atop the rice and salmon to assist with gentle reheating.

Phase 03

Cover for Microwave: Loosely cover the bowl using parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.

Phase 04

Microwave Heating: Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring the ice fully melts and both rice and salmon are hot and moist.

Phase 05

Dress and Assemble: Remove bowl carefully from microwave. Evenly drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil.

Phase 06

Add Toppings: Arrange sliced avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger over the warmed contents.

Phase 07

Finish and Garnish: Top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallion. Sprinkle with chili flakes or drizzle with sriracha, if using.

Phase 08

Serve: Present immediately for best texture and flavor.

Necessary tools

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Microwave
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if uncertain.
  • Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame.
  • For gluten-free needs, replace soy sauce with tamari.
  • Verify packaged ingredients if sensitive to allergens.

Nutrient breakdown (each portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 27 g

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