Pin Recipe 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 the microwave ice cube trick on a busy weeknight and it transformed my leftover salmon and rice into a moist, steamy bowl that tasted freshly cooked.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown, previously cooked
- 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: add to taste
Instructions
- Prep Rice & Salmon:
- Place cooked rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top with flaked salmon.
- Steam in Microwave:
- Set 2 ice cubes on top of rice and salmon, then cover loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat:
- Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes until the ice cubes melt and everything is heated and moist.
- Add Sauce:
- Remove from microwave and drizzle soy sauce along with sesame oil over the bowl.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange avocado slices, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and scallion; optional chili flakes or sriracha can be added.
- Serve:
- Enjoy immediately while warm.
Pin Recipe This simple bowl often brings my family around the kitchen counter as we add our favorite toppings and share stories from our day.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need to prepare this recipe.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Pin Recipe Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sauce for a vibrant, satisfying meal in just minutes.
Recipe FAQs
- → How does the ice cube trick help?
The ice cubes gently steam the rice and salmon in the microwave, preventing dryness and improving texture.
- → What toppings can I use besides those listed?
You can add ingredients like shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, herbs, or extra veggies for color and nutrition.
- → Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?
Yes. Try using cooked fish leftovers or tofu for a plant-based version, adjusting toppings as needed.
- → Is this bowl suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. Swap soy sauce for tamari and check all ingredient labels to ensure gluten-free compliance.
- → How should I serve this dish?
Serve immediately after heating and topping, paired with green tea or a crisp white wine for a well-rounded meal.
- → What's the best way to slice avocado and cucumber?
Use a sharp knife for thin, even slices to enhance presentation and maintain texture in each bowl.