Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl

Name: Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1/2 bell pepper, sliced; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced

Highlighted under: Comfort Bowl Recipes

I absolutely adore making this Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl for a quick yet satisfying dinner. The combination of succulent salmon paired with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze over fluffy rice is simply irresistible. I love the versatility of this recipe — you can add your favorite vegetables or even swap the salmon for tofu if you're in the mood for a vegetarian option. It's a perfect dish for any night of the week, and I guarantee it will become a family favorite in no time!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:34:27.349Z

My first experience with teriyaki sauce was a game-changer, and I couldn’t wait to recreate that flavor at home. I've tinkered with various marinades, but a blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic has become my go-to. The balance of sweet and salty is simply perfect, and it complements the richness of the salmon beautifully. One unique tip: marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes to really enhance the flavor!

As I prepared this dish, I decided to throw in some vibrant steamed broccoli and bell pepper. Not only did it add a pop of color, but the crunchiness offers a delightful contrast to the tender salmon and rice. I also love garnishing with sesame seeds and green onions, as they bring an extra layer of flavor and sophistication.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce perfectly enhances the rich flavor of salmon.
It's a wholesome and satisfying meal, packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ready in just 25 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

The marinade for the salmon is crucial in creating that sweet and savory teriyaki flavor that elevates this dish. Honey not only adds sweetness but also aids in achieving a beautiful caramelization on the salmon when seared. If you're interested in experimenting, try adding a splash of pineapple juice or rice vinegar for a tangy twist that complements the teriyaki notes beautifully.

For those seeking an umami boost, consider incorporating a tablespoon of miso paste into the marinade. This addition deepens the flavor, providing a richer taste that pairs perfectly with the salmon. Remember, marinating the salmon for a full 30 minutes or longer allows the ingredients to meld, ensuring that every bite is infused with flavor.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the salmon, be sure to start with a hot skillet and use medium heat to avoid overcooking while achieving that golden-brown crust. The goal is to cook the salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F, which ensures a perfectly flaky texture. If you find that the salmon is sticking to the pan, a touch more sesame oil can help prevent this and enhance the dish’s overall flavor.

As you pour the reserved marinade into the skillet after cooking the salmon, make sure to stir gently. This will not only deglaze the pan, lifting the lovely browned bits into your sauce but also ensure that the flavors marry beautifully. Allowing this to simmer briefly allows the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a glossy finish that makes the dish visually appealing.

Serving and Storing Leftovers

This Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl is best served immediately while the rice is warm and the vegetables are still crisp-tender. For enhanced presentation, consider garnishing with additional sesame seeds or even a drizzle of sriracha if you enjoy a bit of heat. Pairing it with a light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the meal.

If you have leftovers, store the individual components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon can be reheated in the microwave or a skillet over low heat, ensuring it remains moist. The rice may need a splash of water to rehydrate it after refrigeration. Enjoying this dish the next day allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite just as satisfying.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl:

For the Salmon

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

For the Rice Bowl

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
1 cup broccoli florets
1/2 bell pepper, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced

These ingredients will serve as the base for a delightful dish that’s both filling and delicious.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl:

Cook the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and water in a pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, then remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.

Marinate the Salmon

In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Prepare the Vegetables

While the salmon is marinating, steam the broccoli florets and bell pepper until they are tender, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Remove the salmon from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook the fillets in the skillet for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Add the reserved marinade to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it between two bowls. Top each bowl with the sautéed salmon, steamed broccoli, and bell pepper. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Salmon Teriyaki Rice Bowl!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of rice vinegar to your vegetables during steaming.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this recipe vegetarian, tofu makes an excellent alternative to salmon. Firm or extra-firm tofu absorbs the marinade beautifully, and you can grill or pan-sear it until golden for a satisfying texture. If soy sauce is a concern, tamari sauce is a gluten-free option that works equally well without compromising flavor.

For a lighter option, consider using skinless chicken breast or even shrimp. Both will require adjustments in cooking time—chicken should reach 165°F internally, while shrimp cooks quickly, around 2-3 minutes per side until they are opaque and tender. These variations can keep your weeknight dinners exciting while still preserving the essence of the original dish.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. For a family of four, simply double the salmon and marinade ingredients, ensuring each fillet gets enough sauce to flavor it well. When increasing the rice, maintain the same rice-to-water ratio of 1:2 to ensure it cooks perfectly, regardless of the quantity you prepare.

If you're preparing meals for the week, consider cooking all components at once and storing them in separate containers. This way, you can mix and match as desired throughout the week. Each serving can be reheated individually, allowing for variety and convenience without compromising on flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well too! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating.

→ What vegetables can I add to the rice bowl?

You can add any vegetables you like! Carrots, snap peas, or edamame are great options.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just use tamari in place of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.