Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl

Name: Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 2 cups cooked jasmine rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 3 green onions, chopped

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals

I've always been captivated by the combination of salmon and teriyaki sauce. The way the rich, savory flavor of the teriyaki complements the tender salmon is simply remarkable. When I decided to create my own Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl, I aimed to capture that perfect harmony. Serving it over a bed of fluffy rice with vibrant vegetables transforms this dish into a meal that's not only delicious but visually stunning too. Trust me; this bowl will become a regular feature in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-07T14:52:22.777Z

When I first prepared the Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl, it was a testament to how easily a weeknight meal can become extraordinary. I experimented with various ingredients, focusing on balancing flavors, and learned that marinating the salmon for just 30 minutes intensifies the taste. It’s remarkable how a few basic ingredients can come together to create something so satisfying.

One of my favorite tips is to use leftover rice from previous meals; it adds a delightful texture and the flavors meld perfectly. I served this to friends over a casual dinner, and the compliments kept pouring in. It left me feeling like a kitchen rockstar!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Deliciously tender salmon drizzled with savory teriyaki sauce
Colorful array of vegetables adds freshness and crunch
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is essential for infusing the salmon with its characteristic flavor. Combining soy sauce and mirin creates a savory-sweet balance, while the garlic and ginger add depth. I recommend letting the salmon sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if time allows, marinating for an hour or even overnight can intensify the taste and texture. Just ensure to keep it in the refrigerator during this time to maintain freshness.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider using tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Additionally, adjusting the brown sugar level can help you customize the sweetness according to your preference. Just remember, the key is to taste the marinade before adding the salmon, as it should be a well-balanced mixture that complements rather than overwhelms the fish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, whether you choose to grill or pan-sear, aim for medium-high heat. This ensures a beautiful sear that locks in moisture, promoting a flaky texture. Each side should take about 4 minutes—watch for the edges to turn golden and the center to become opaque but still slightly translucent, indicating it's perfectly cooked. Using a non-stick skillet can help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

If you prefer to bake the salmon, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness. This method keeps the salmon moist and allows for a hands-off approach, perfect for multitasking in the kitchen. Just be sure to check it frequently to avoid overcooking.

Serving and Storing Your Rice Bowl

Assembling the bowls is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Arrange the rice at the bottom as the base, then layer the vibrant sautéed vegetables on top before placing the salmon. Drizzle with the reserved teriyaki sauce for that extra burst of flavor. I love to finish with sesame seeds and green onions for added texture and color, making the dish truly pop.

If you have leftovers, store the components separately to maintain their quality. The rice and vegetables can be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest steaming the vegetables and gently reheating the salmon in a low oven to keep it tender. However, this dish is best enjoyed fresh, so try to prepare just the right amount for your meals!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your flavorful bowl:

For the Teriyaki Salmon

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger

For the Rice Bowl

2 cups cooked jasmine rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
3 green onions, chopped

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to preparing the dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl:

Marinate the Salmon

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the salmon marinates, steam the broccoli until tender and sauté the bell pepper and carrot in a pan with a little oil until they are crisp-tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade and cook for about 4 minutes per side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Reserve some marinade for drizzling later.

Assemble the Bowls

In bowls, layer cooked jasmine rice, sautéed vegetables, and the grilled salmon. Drizzle with the reserved teriyaki marinade and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Your delicious Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding avocado slices or a sprinkle of nori flakes before serving.

Vegetable Variations

While broccoli, bell pepper, and carrot are fantastic choices, feel free to experiment with other vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Snap peas, zucchini, or even bok choy can add different textures and flavors to your bowl. Just aim for a mix of colors to keep it visually appealing and nutritious.

If you want to add protein, incorporating edamame or tofu can enhance the health benefits while making it vegetarian-friendly. Just remember that the cooking times will vary, so adjust accordingly—edamame can be added to the steaming process for broccoli, but tofu may need a bit of extra cooking to achieve a golden crust.

Customizing the Rice

The choice of rice can significantly impact the dish's overall flavor. While jasmine rice is a classic pairing, experimenting with brown rice or quinoa can add nutty notes and more fiber. If you opt for brown rice, plan for a longer cooking time, typically around 45 minutes, to achieve the perfect texture.

For added flavor, try cooking your rice in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. This simple swap can turn plain rice into a flavorful base, enhancing the entire dish. Additionally, tossing in a bit of rice vinegar mixed with sugar and salt once cooked can create a light sushi-style seasoning, elevating the entire bowl.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're looking to prep ahead of time, the teriyaki marinade can be made and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to quickly marinate the salmon before cooking. Just remember that fresh ingredients will add the best flavor, so only marinate what you plan to cook.

Prepping your vegetables in advance can also save time. Feel free to chop them up and store them in airtight containers. You can even steam the broccoli beforehand and give it a quick reheat just before serving, ensuring it remains bright and crisp without wilting in the fridge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?

Yes! This recipe works well with other fish such as tuna or tilapia.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute the salmon with tofu and follow the same marination process.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce from scratch?

Yes, you can make a simple homemade teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic.