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.
I discovered this bowl during a hectic week when I needed a satisfying meal in minutes. The microwave steam method saved both texture and flavor, making leftovers taste freshly made.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown rice, 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
Instructions
- Prep Bowl:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top with flaked salmon.
- Add Steam:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Heat:
- Microwave on high for 2 to 3 minutes until ice cubes melt and rice and salmon are heated through.
- Finish:
- Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Save This bowl became a family favorite for quick dinners after school. Kids love customizing their toppings, and adding a little sriracha keeps the adults happy.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), sesame. For gluten-free, use tamari; always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving: 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 27 g protein
Save This nourishing bowl transforms leftovers into a fresh, balanced meal. Enjoy every bite knowing cleanup is quick and easy.
Kitchen Questions
- → How does the ice cube microwave trick work?
The ice cubes melt, creating gentle steam that moistens and reheats the rice and salmon without drying them out.
- → Can I use other proteins instead of salmon?
Yes, other cooked fish, shrimp, or tofu are great substitutions for salmon in this bowl.
- → What toppings pair well with this bowl?
Besides avocado and cucumber, try shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, or extra herbs for added flavor.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It's gluten-free if you use tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check all ingredient labels for allergens.
- → What tools do I need?
You'll need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board.