Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl

Name: Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 green onion, sliced; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; Sesame seeds; Additional sliced green onions

Highlighted under: International Table

I absolutely love how quick and satisfying this Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl is to prepare! The combination of tender salmon, sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, and fluffy rice creates a meal that's not only delicious but also visually appealing. I often whip this up for weeknight dinners when I'm craving something comforting yet light. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s an effortless yet impressive dish that can be ready in under 30 minutes!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:41:35.702Z

This Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl has become one of my go-to meals because of its simplicity and flavor. After experimenting with various marinades, I found that marinating the salmon for just 15 minutes really enhances the teriyaki flavor without overpowering the delicate fish. The trick is to use fresh ingredients, particularly the ginger and green onions, which elevate the dish significantly.

I often serve this bowl with steamed broccoli and sesame seeds for added texture and nutrition. It's incredible how a few extra minutes can yield such a satisfying meal that feels both homey and gourmet. Trust me, once you try it, you'll want to make it part of your regular dinner rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Fast preparation makes it perfect for a busy weeknight.
Versatile ingredients mean you can easily customize it to your taste.

Mastering the Teriyaki Marinade

The teriyaki marinade is crucial for infusing your salmon with flavor. When mixing the teriyaki sauce, olive oil, grated ginger, and green onions, aim for a harmonious blend that highlights each ingredient. Use fresh ginger for a more vibrant taste, as the jarred version can lack the same aromatic flare. Allowing the salmon to marinate for at least 15 minutes helps to tenderize the fish and allows the flavors to penetrate deep, ensuring each bite bursts with sweetness and umami.

Be mindful of the marinating time; while 15 minutes is sufficient, avoid exceeding 30 minutes, as the teriyaki sauce can start to cure the fish, changing its texture. If you’d like to prepare this dish ahead, marinate the salmon earlier in the day and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This not only saves time but enhances the flavor profile.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Salmon

Cooking the salmon in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat allows for an even sear. You want to achieve a golden exterior, which typically takes about 4-5 minutes on each side. If the salmon sticks to the pan, it may need a bit more time before flipping; the fish will release when it’s ready. For best results, use a fish spatula that allows you to slide underneath the fillets without breaking them apart.

To check for doneness, look for opaque flesh that flakes easily with a fork. If you're unsure, use an instant-read thermometer to gauge an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Remember, salmon continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat, so take it off when it's just shy of done to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

Once assembled, the Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl can be served immediately. For a delightful twist, accompany it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to add color and nutrients. Consider adding a drizzle of sriracha for an added kick if you enjoy a bit of heat. This bowl not only tastes great but also looks inviting with contrasting colors from the salmon, rice, and garnishes.

If you have leftovers, store the salmon and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon is best enjoyed within 2-3 days, while the rice can stay fresh for up to a week. To reheat, simply place the salmon in a skillet over low heat, covering it to keep it moist, and microwave the rice in short bursts, adding a teaspoon of water to rehydrate as necessary.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

2 salmon fillets
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 green onion, sliced

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish

Sesame seeds
Additional sliced green onions

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, olive oil, ginger, and half of the sliced green onions. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for 15 minutes.

Cook the Rice

While the salmon marinates, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon fillets and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Assemble the Bowl

To serve, place a scoop of rice in a bowl, top with the cooked salmon, and drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce from the skillet. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and the remaining sliced green onions for garnish.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a dash of sriracha to the teriyaki sauce before marinating the salmon. You can also substitute the salmon with tofu for a vegetarian option.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to customize the recipe to suit dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry, consider substituting the salmon with other fish like trout or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will absorb the teriyaki marinade well, although cooking times may vary; tofu typically takes longer to achieve a desirable texture, so pan-fry it until golden.

For the rice, jasmine is great, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Keep in mind that brown rice requires more water and a longer cooking time (about 30-40 minutes), so adjust accordingly if you choose this alternative.

Making Ahead and Freezing

To make meal prepping easier, consider cooking a larger batch of the rice and marinating a few salmon fillets at once. You can freeze the uncooked marinated salmon in a plastic bag, ensuring all air is removed, which will keep it fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook as instructed.

Additionally, you can prepare the teriyaki marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows for quick meal prep during busy nights, making it even easier to whip up this delicious rice bowl!

Variations to Try

To switch things up, experiment with different flavor profiles by adding sesame oil to the marinade for a richer taste. Alternatively, incorporate a squeeze of lime or a dash of rice vinegar right before serving to enhance the dish's brightness. You can also toss in varied vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots when cooking the salmon for a one-pan meal.

Another fun variation is to serve the rice bowl with a layer of sautéed greens on the bottom. Spinach or kale can complement the dish perfectly, adding both nutrients and a lovely color contrast. Mix and match ingredients to keep your Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl exciting each time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just ensure it's fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for jasmine rice?

You can use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier alternative.

→ How long should I marinate the salmon?

Marinating for at least 15 minutes is ideal, but you can marinate longer for a stronger flavor.

→ Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can prepare the marinade and the rice ahead, although it's best to cook the salmon fresh for the best texture.