Healthy Salmon Bowl with Avocado & Rice

 The Ultimate Healthy Salmon Bowl with Avocado & Rice (Ready in 30 Minutes!):

There’s nothing quite like a nourishing, colorful bowl that’s as delicious as it is good for you. If you’re searching for a meal that ticks all the boxes—**high protein, healthy fats, meal-prep friendly, and incredibly flavorful**—you’ve found it.

This Healthy Salmon Bowl with Avocado and Rice is my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or for packing into lunches that I actually look forward to. It combines perfectly cooked, flaky salmon with creamy avocado, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies, all brought together with a simple, addictive sauce.

The Health Benefits: A Truly Nutritious Meal:

This isn't just a pretty bowl; it's a powerhouse of nutrition:

* **Salmon:** An excellent source of high-quality **protein** and **omega-3 fatty acids**, which are crucial for heart and brain health.

* **Avocado:** Provides healthy **monounsaturated fats** and **fiber**, which help keep you full and satisfied.

* **Cucumber & Edamame:** Add crunch, fiber, vitamins, and plant-based protein.

* **Rice:** Provides energy-sustaining complex carbohydrates. For extra fiber, easily swap in brown rice or quinoa.

Ingredients For Your Salmon Bowl:

**For the Salmon and Marinade:**

• 2 (6 oz) salmon fillets, skinless or skin-on, cut into 1-inch cubes
•  2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
•  1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
•  1 tbsp rice vinegar
•  1 tsp sesame oil
•  2 cloves garlic, minced
•  1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
•  1/2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

For the Bowl Assembly:

•  1 cup cooked jasmine or basmati rice (or brown rice/quinoa)
•  1 ripe avocado, sliced or diced
•  1/2 cup cucumber, diced
•  1/2 cup edamame, shelled and thawed
•  1 tbsp sesame seeds
•  1 green onion, thinly sliced
•  Fresh cilantro or lime wedges for serving

**For the Spicy Mayo Sauce (Optional but recommended!):**

•  1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
•  1-2 tbsp sriracha, to taste
•  1 tsp lime juice

How to Make a Salmon Bowl: Step-by-Step:

1. Marinate the Salmon:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the cubed salmon and gently toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least **10 minutes** while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Cook the Salmon:

**Air Fryer Method (Preferred for crispiness):** Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease the basket. Add the salmon cubes in a single layer, shaking off excess marinade. Air fry for **6-8 minutes**, shaking the basket halfway through, until cooked through and slightly caramelized.

**Stovetop Method:** Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon cubes in a single layer and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through.

3. Prepare the Sauce & Toppings:

While the salmon cooks, whisk together the spicy mayo ingredients in a small bowl. Thin with a teaspoon of water if needed. Slice the avocado, dice the cucumber, and gather all your other toppings.

4. Assemble Your Bowls!:

Divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Arrange the cooked salmon, avocado, cucumber, and edamame over the rice. Drizzle generously with the spicy mayo sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onion, and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with a lime wedge on the side.

## Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This recipe is a **meal prep dream**!

* **To Store:** Let all components cool completely. Store the cooked salmon, rice, and chopped vegetables (except avocado) in **separate airtight containers** in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

* **For the Avocado:** To prevent browning, squeeze a little lime juice over it and store it in a sealed container. For best results, slice the avocado fresh each day.

* **To Reheat:** Gently reheat the salmon and rice in the microwave at 50% power until warm. Add the fresh, cold toppings and sauce after reheating.

## Customize Your Bowl!

The formula is simple: Grain + Protein + Veggies + Sauce. Get creative!

* **Grain Base:** Try quinoa, cauliflower rice (for low-carb), or couscous.

* **Different Proteins:** Swap salmon for tuna, shrimp, or baked tofu.

* **More Veggies:** Add shredded carrots, pickled red onion, sautéed spinach, or seaweed salad.

* **Different Sauces:** A peanut-ginger sauce or a simple honey-lime vinaigrette would be delicious here.

# FAQ


**Can I use a whole salmon fillet instead of cubes?**

Absolutely! Bake a full fillet at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with the marinade in the last few minutes of cooking. Then, flake it into the bowl.

**I don't have an air fryer. What's the best alternative?**

The stovetop method works great! You can also bake the marinated salmon cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes.

**Is this salmon bowl good for weight loss?**

Yes! It's a balanced meal with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, which promote satiety and can help you feel full longer. For a lower-calorie option, use Greek yogurt in the sauce and ensure portion control.



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