Save 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.
This recipe has saved me on busy evenings when I need dinner in a flash. The microwave trick keeps everything moist and tasty without extra pans.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice: Use 1 cup of leftover white or brown rice, cold or room temperature.
- Cooked salmon: Flake 1 cup salmon into large pieces for even heating.
- Ice cubes: 2 ice cubes for gentle microwave steaming.
- Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons for savory seasoning.
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon for nutty flavor.
- Avocado: 1, sliced for creaminess.
- Cucumber: Thinly sliced for freshness.
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons for tangy flavor.
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon for crunch.
- Scallion: Finely sliced for brightness.
- Optional: Chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
Instructions
- Prepare bowl:
- Place the leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add ice:
- Put the 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave:
- Heat on high for 2 to 3 minutes until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are moist and warmed through.
- Add flavor:
- Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and salmon.
- Add toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Finish and serve:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired, then serve immediately.
Save My family asks for this bowl whenever we have leftover salmon. It’s a fuss-free dinner that feels special and everyone enjoys adding their own toppings.
Required Tools
Use a microwave-safe bowl, a microwave, and a sharp knife and cutting board for prepping toppings.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free and double-check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbs, 27 g protein.
Save Put leftovers to good use with this easy bowl full of flavor and texture. Every bite highlights how simple microwave steaming can make a satisfying meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does the ice cube do when microwaving?
The ice cube melts and steams the rice and salmon, ensuring they stay moist instead of drying out in the microwave.
- → Can I substitute another protein for salmon?
Yes, cooked fish like cod or even tofu can be used in place of salmon for variety and different dietary needs.
- → What toppings go well with this bowl?
Avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, sesame seeds, scallion, and optional chili flakes all complement the base flavors.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Replace soy sauce with tamari and double-check all packaged ingredients to avoid gluten sources.
- → What tools do I need to prepare this dish?
You’ll need a microwave-safe bowl, a microwave, a sharp knife, and a cutting board for prepping toppings.