Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Featured in: Everyday Flavors

This bowl combines leftover salmon and rice, gently reheated with a microwave steaming trick using ice cubes to keep the grains moist and the fish tender. Topped with avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, and a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil, it's a quick way to turn yesterday's ingredients into something fresh and flavorful. Garnished with sesame seeds, scallion, and a hint of chili or sriracha, it provides a balanced mix of protein, grains, and colorful vegetables. Perfect for a speedy lunch or dinner, it’s easily adaptable with tofu or other fish—and pairs well with green tea or crisp white wine.

Updated on Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:58:00 GMT
Leftover salmon and rice bowl garnished with fresh avocado and cucumber slices. Save
Leftover salmon and rice bowl garnished with fresh avocado and cucumber slices. | oventhyme.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.

I started making this bowl after discovering that microwaving rice and salmon with ice cubes kept everything moist and tender. It&s a smart way to turn fridge leftovers into a fresh, vibrant lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

  • Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown rice, already cooked
  • Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
  • Ice cubes: 2 pieces, for steam reheating
  • 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: as desired

Instructions

Assemble in Bowl:
Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
Add Ice Cubes:
Set 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
Cover:
Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
Microwave:
Microwave on high for 2 or 3 minutes, until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
Finish with Sauce:
Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Add Toppings:
Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
Garnish:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
Serve:
Serve immediately.
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| oventhyme.com

My family always looks forward to transforming leftover salmon into these colorful bowls. It&s become a staple on busy weeknights when everyone wants something quick but nourishing.

Required Tools

Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need for this speedy recipe.

Allergen Information

Contains fish, soy, and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free. Always check your ingredient labels to avoid allergens.

Nutritional Information

Each serving provides approximately 410 calories, 18 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.

Steam-heated leftover salmon and rice bowl drizzled with soy sauce and sesame oil. Save
Steam-heated leftover salmon and rice bowl drizzled with soy sauce and sesame oil. | oventhyme.com

Leftover salmon and rice never tasted this fresh. Enjoy your balanced bowl with your favorite toppings and a cup of tea.

Kitchen Guide

Why use ice cubes for microwave steaming?

The ice cubes gently steam the rice and salmon as they melt, keeping the food moist and preventing dryness during reheating.

Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?

Yes, other cooked fish, tofu, or even shredded chicken can be used as an alternative for a different flavor or dietary preference.

What kind of rice works best?

Both white and brown rice work well. Make sure it's already cooked for the best results and a quick preparation.

Which toppings can be added or replaced?

Feel free to add shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, or swap out toppings like avocado or cucumber for your favorites.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and always check ingredient labels to ensure all components are gluten-free.

Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Transform leftover salmon and rice into a flavorful bowl topped with avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger.

Prep duration
10 min
Kitchen time
5 min
Complete duration
15 min
Created by Grace Mitchell


Skill level Easy

Heritage Fusion

Output 2 Portions

Dietary requirements No dairy

What you'll need

Leftovers

01 1 cup cooked white 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 (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Prepare Base: Arrange the cooked rice in a microwave-safe bowl and distribute the flaked salmon evenly on top.

Phase 02

Steam in Microwave: Place two ice cubes over the rice and salmon. Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.

Phase 03

Heat Contents: Microwave on high power for 2 to 3 minutes, or until ice cubes melt and contents are thoroughly warmed and moist.

Phase 04

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

Phase 05

Add Fresh Toppings: Top with sliced avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, toasted sesame seeds, and scallion. Finish with chili flakes or sriracha if desired.

Phase 06

Serve: Serve immediately while warm.

Kitchen tools needed

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

Allergy notes

Always review ingredients for potential allergens and seek professional medical advice when uncertain.
  • Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. For gluten-free preparation, use tamari in place of soy sauce. Review all ingredient packaging for allergen safety.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

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