Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice

If you’re looking for a meal that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! These Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice have become a favorite in my kitchen. They’re bursting with flavor, yet simple enough for those busy weeknights when you need something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe special is its delightful combination of spicy salmon, fluffy coconut rice, and fresh toppings. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner for two. Plus, it’s a fun dish to customize—everyone can add their favorite toppings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 55 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The blend of spices and creamy coconut rice creates an irresistible taste you’ll crave again and again.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love building their own bowls with fun toppings!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the rice and pickled cucumber ahead of time, saving precious minutes on busy nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy for this recipe—just some simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice:

For the Coconut Rice

• 1 1/3 cup jasmine rice, rinsed & drained
• 1 cup full fat coconut milk (canned)
• 1/2 cup water, plus 2 tbsps
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp coconut sugar

For the Quick Pickled Cucumber

• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tsp white sugar
• 2 small cucumbers, thinly sliced

For the Salmon Bowl

• 1 lb salmon, skin removed and cubed
• 3 tbsps avocado oil
• 1 tbsp low sodium tamari (or soy sauce)
• 1 tsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 3/4 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1 tsp nanami togarashi (optional)

For the Spicy Mayo

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tsp sriracha
• 1 tsp lime juice

Toppings

• Avocado, sliced
• Furikake
• Fresh chives, chopped

Variations

One of the best things about these spicy salmon bowls is how flexible they are! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken or tofu instead of salmon for different flavors and textures.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some steamed broccoli or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
• Change the grain: Quinoa or brown rice can be great substitutes if you want a different base.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, throw in some jalapeños or chili flakes to your bowl!

How to Make Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Coconut Rice

Start by rinsing your jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and makes the rice fluffier. Combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and coconut sugar in a pot. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Quick Pickle the Cucumbers

While your rice cooks, let’s make those refreshing pickled cucumbers! In a bowl, mix together rice vinegar and white sugar until dissolved. Add your thinly sliced cucumbers and let them soak for at least 10 minutes. This quick pickle adds a nice crunch that balances out the spice!

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

Next up is cooking your salmon! In a large skillet, heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed salmon seasoned with tamari, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger powder, and sesame seeds. Cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—flipping gently so they don’t fall apart.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. This creamy sauce adds an extra kick that pulls everything together!

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

Now comes the fun part! Grab your bowls and layer in that fluffy coconut rice as your base. Top it off with sautéed salmon bites, quick-pickled cucumbers, sliced avocado, drizzles of spicy mayo, furikake, and fresh chives. Don’t forget to sprinkle on extra sesame seeds if you like!

Enjoy every bite of these vibrant Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice—they’re sure to brighten your day!

Pro Tips for Making Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice

Creating the perfect spicy salmon bowls can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and ripe avocados not only enhance flavor but also add a vibrant look to your dish.
• Marinate the salmon: Allowing the cubed salmon to marinate in the tamari and spices for at least 15 minutes will deepen the flavors and make each bite more delicious.
• Control the spice level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in your spicy mayo according to your heat preference—more for those who like it fiery, less for a milder flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add other toppings like radishes or seaweed to customize your bowl and make it your own.
• Make extra coconut rice: If you have any leftover coconut rice, it makes a great base for other dishes throughout the week!

How to Serve Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice

Serving your spicy salmon bowls can be just as fun as making them! Presenting this dish beautifully will elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor boost.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens up the entire dish.

Side Dishes

• Edamame: Lightly salted edamame is an excellent choice that pairs well with the salmon’s rich flavors while also providing a protein boost.
• Miso Soup: This warm, comforting soup complements the meal beautifully and adds an authentic touch, enhancing the Japanese-American vibe of your dinner.
• Seaweed Salad: A refreshing seaweed salad provides a crisp texture and balances out the richness of the coconut rice and salmon.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color to your plate and is an easy way to incorporate more veggies into your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delightful spicy salmon bowls with coconut rice! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners easier and more enjoyable. You can prepare components in advance, ensuring a quick assembly when you’re ready to eat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salmon and coconut rice to cool down before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the pickled cucumbers and spicy mayo in separate containers for freshness.

Freezing

• Cool the salmon and coconut rice completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers to store portion sizes.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• Label each container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat the coconut rice in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water, covered, for about 1-2 minutes.
• Reheat salmon in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Serve with fresh toppings like cucumbers and avocado.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about making these delicious bowls!

Can I make Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the components separately and assemble them when you’re ready to enjoy your meal.

What can I use instead of coconut milk in Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice?

You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk or oat milk. However, this will alter the flavor slightly.

How long do Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice last in the fridge?

These bowls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep components separate until ready to serve!

Can I use other fish types instead of salmon?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute salmon with trout or tuna based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice as much as I do! They’re not only bursting with flavor but also provide a healthy, satisfying meal option. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or adjustments; that’s part of the fun! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to dig into these delightful bowls!