Pin 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 first tried this method on a busy weeknight, amazed by how easily the ice cube technique restored both rice and salmon to tender deliciousness. Now it's my favorite way to reinvent leftover fish, saving time and food waste.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2
- Soy sauce (or tamari): 2 tablespoons
- 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
- Layer Rice and Salmon:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add Ice Cubes:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover Bowl:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high for 2–3 minutes, or until the ice cubes melt and the rice and salmon are heated through and moist.
- Season:
- Remove from microwave. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Add Toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Pin This recipe is always a hit at lunch with my family, especially when we jazz it up with extra vegetables and everyone chooses their own toppings. We love how easy it is to customize the bowl for different tastes.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board are all you need for quick assembly.
Allergen Information
Contains fish, soy, and sesame. For gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and always double-check labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 410, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 36 g, Protein: 27 g
Pin Enjoy this fresh and easy bowl whenever you have leftover salmon. A microwave and a bit of creativity turn simple ingredients into something truly delicious.
Recipe Q&A
- → How does the ice cube trick help?
Adding ice cubes on top of rice and salmon before microwaving gently steams the contents, preserving moisture and preventing dryness.
- → Can I use other types of fish or protein?
Absolutely. Substitute salmon with cooked fish such as cod or tuna, or opt for tofu to suit vegetarian preferences.
- → What toppings work well for extra flavor and texture?
Try avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, and toasted sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Replace soy sauce with tamari and ensure all ingredients are labeled gluten-free to enjoy this bowl with dietary peace of mind.
- → Which tools do I need for preparation?
You'll need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board to quickly prepare this meal.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare toppings and portion leftovers ahead, then heat and assemble when ready to eat.