Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Dinners

Transform leftover salmon and rice into a satisfying meal using a microwave steam technique. Simply layer rice and flaked salmon in a bowl, add ice cubes for gentle reheating, and top with fresh veggies such as avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garnish with scallion and sesame seeds. Optional chili heat adds a kick. The ice cubes help retain moisture, creating a flavorful dish with minimal prep time. This method works well with other cooked fish or tofu and can be customized with additional vegetables for a balanced bowl. Ready in minutes, it’s ideal for a quick meal solution.

Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:31:00 GMT
Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl topped with fresh avocado and cucumber slices.  Save
Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl topped with fresh avocado and cucumber slices. | toastytongs.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 discovered this recipe when searching for ways to turn leftover salmon and rice into a vibrant meal. The microwave steaming method keeps everything moist and tasty, making it a favorite in my kitchen.

Ingredients

  • Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup, use any variety you have on hand
  • Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
  • Ice cubes: 2, for gentle steaming in the microwave
  • Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons, use tamari for gluten-free
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon, for flavor
  • 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 needed, for heat

Instructions

Layer leftovers:
Place cooked rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Top evenly with flaked salmon.
Add steaming:
Place 2 ice cubes over the rice and salmon.
Cover and microwave:
Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, until ice cubes melt and food is heated through.
Toppings:
Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Finish bowl:
Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top. Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
Serve:
Enjoy immediately while warm.
Quick and easy Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl, perfect for weeknight meals.  Save
Quick and easy Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl, perfect for weeknight meals. | toastytongs.com

This bowl is a staple after family dinners featuring roasted salmon. My kids love picking their favorite toppings and building their own bowls.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free and verify all labels for any allergens.

Nutritional Information

Each serving: 410 calories, 18 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 27 g protein

Flavorful Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl, vibrant with colorful fresh toppings. Save
Flavorful Leftover Salmon and Rice Bowl, vibrant with colorful fresh toppings. | toastytongs.com

This easy salmon rice bowl turns leftovers into a refreshing meal that tastes just as good as fresh. Give it a try for a hassle-free dinner solution.

Recipe FAQ

How does the microwave ice cube trick work?

The ice cubes gently steam rice and salmon while reheating, keeping them moist and preventing dryness.

Can I substitute other proteins for salmon?

Yes, you can use other cooked fish or tofu in place of salmon for variety or dietary preference.

What toppings work best for this bowl?

Avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, sesame seeds, and chili flakes complement the base and add freshness.

Is this bowl suitable for gluten-free diets?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check all ingredient labels.

How can I add more color or nutrients?

Try adding shredded nori, carrot ribbons, or edamame for extra color, flavor, and beneficial nutrients.

What tools do I need for preparation?

You just need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board for easy assembly.

Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Salmon and rice revived with microwave steam, topped with avocado, cucumber, soy, sesame, and ginger.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created By Daniel Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Heritage Fusion

Output 2 Portions

Dietary considerations 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 Optional: chili flakes or sriracha

Directions

Phase 01

Layer Base Ingredients: Place cooked rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.

Phase 02

Add Steaming Element: Position two ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.

Phase 03

Cover for Microwave Steaming: Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.

Phase 04

Steam in Microwave: Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the ice cubes to melt and gently reheat the rice and salmon until moist throughout.

Phase 05

Apply Sauces: Remove the bowl from the microwave and drizzle evenly with soy sauce and sesame oil.

Phase 06

Arrange Fresh Toppings: Layer avocado slices, cucumber, and pickled ginger attractively over the bowl contents.

Phase 07

Finish and Garnish: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.

Phase 08

Serve: Serve immediately while warm.

Tools needed

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

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult with a healthcare professional if you're uncertain.
  • Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Substituting tamari for soy sauce renders it gluten-free. Verify all ingredient labels for allergen content.

Nutritional information (per portion)

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