Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Featured in: Simple Suppers

Give new life to leftover salmon and rice by quickly steaming in the microwave with an ice cube trick. Soft salmon and rice come together with vibrant avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, and toasted sesame seeds. A splash of soy sauce and sesame oil adds savory depth, while scallions and chili flakes offer a kick of freshness and heat. This easy bowl is ideal for a quick lunch, packed with flavor and nutrients, and is easily adapted to different tastes or ingredients.

Updated on Thu, 06 Nov 2025 13:47:00 GMT
Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl topped with fresh avocado, cucumber, and ginger slices.  Save
Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl topped with fresh avocado, cucumber, and ginger slices. | butterhollow.com

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 dish became a staple in my kitchen after a hectic week left me with extra salmon and rice& I was surprised how the microwave steaming instantly revived their texture, turning leftovers into a satisfying lunch.

Ingredients

  • Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown, previously prepared
  • 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 topping: chili flakes or sriracha

Instructions

Prepare base:
Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
Steam in microwave:
Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.< Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.< Microwave on high for 2<3 minutes until ice cubes melt and food is heated through.
Add toppings:
Remove from microwave.< Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.< Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.< Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion.< Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
Serve:
Serve immediately.
Flavorful Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl garnished with sesame seeds and scallions.  Save
Flavorful Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl garnished with sesame seeds and scallions. | butterhollow.com

One evening, my family gathered for a casual dinner, and this bowl was gone within minutes.< Even picky eaters enjoyed choosing their own toppings.

Allergen Information

Contains fish (salmon), soy, and sesame.< For gluten-free, use tamari in place of soy sauce and double-check all ingredient labels.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 410, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 27 g

Easily prepared Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl with steaming technique for moistness. Save
Easily prepared Leftover Salmon & Rice Bowl with steaming technique for moistness. | butterhollow.com

This leftover salmon and rice bowl delivers a fresh, satisfying meal in just minutes& Enjoy customizing with your favorite toppings each time.

Kitchen Tips & Answers

How does the ice cube trick work?

The ice cube gently steams the salmon and rice in the microwave, rehydrating both and preventing dryness for a moist, fresh texture.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, either brown or white rice works well, adding a nutritious base and chewy texture to the bowl.

What toppings can I substitute?

Swap in shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, or skip any topping based on preference or availability for flavor and color.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely, just replace soy sauce with tamari and check ingredient labels to make sure all toppings are gluten-free.

Can I use other proteins besides salmon?

Yes, cooked fish such as trout, or tofu for a vegetarian twist, can be used for a similar delicious effect.

What pairs well with this bowl?

Green tea offers a refreshing complement, or try a crisp white wine for a light pairing with the flavors.

Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Transform leftover salmon and rice with fresh add-ons and a clever microwave trick for a satisfying bowl.

Prep duration
10 min
Heat duration
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Ella Thompson


Skill level Easy

Heritage Fusion

Output 2 Portions

Eating preferences No dairy

What you'll need

Leftovers

01 1 cup cooked white rice or brown rice
02 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked into large pieces

Microwave Steaming

01 2 ice cubes

Toppings

01 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
02 1 teaspoon sesame oil
03 1 avocado, sliced
04 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
05 2 tablespoons pickled ginger
06 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
07 1 scallion, finely sliced
08 chili flakes or sriracha, as desired

Method

Phase 01

Prepare the Base: Transfer the cooked rice to a microwave-safe bowl, spreading it evenly. Distribute the flaked salmon over the rice.

Phase 02

Steam with Ice Cubes: Position the ice cubes atop the rice and salmon. Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.

Phase 03

Heat and Moisture Retention: Microwave on high power for 2 to 3 minutes until the ice cubes melt and contents are thoroughly heated and moist.

Phase 04

Season and Garnish: Remove the bowl from the microwave. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil evenly over the salmon and rice.

Phase 05

Add Fresh Toppings: Arrange slices of avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger over the bowl. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and scallion. Top with chili flakes or sriracha to taste.

Phase 06

Serve: Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.

Kitchen tools needed

  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Microwave
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Always review individual ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical guidance if uncertain.
  • Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce or tamari), and sesame.
  • Substitute tamari for gluten-free needs; verify ingredient labels for allergens.

Nutrient breakdown per portion

Numbers shown are estimates only - consult healthcare providers for specific advice.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fats: 18 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 27 g