Spring is finally here and your kitchen needs something fresh. You want a meal that feels light and bright. It should also keep you full all afternoon. These high protein salmon bowls are the perfect solution for your family.
It is 6pm and you need a healthy dinner fast. You can have this meal on the table in 30 minutes. It delivers a filling 45g of protein per serving. Your family will love the golden, crispy salmon cubes.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a lifesaver for busy spring weeknights. It uses the air fryer to get salmon perfectly crispy without extra oil. You get a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. It is budget-friendly and uses simple pantry staples.
Preparing these bowls is also great for your weekly meal prep. The salmon stays tender and delicious even when reheated. You will love having a nutritious lunch ready to go. It is a win for your health and your schedule.
Simple Method
Cooking salmon has never been more approachable for beginners. You simply cube the fish and toss it in a quick marinade. The air fryer does all the hard work for you. You will get perfectly golden edges every single time.
While the salmon cooks, you can easily prep your fresh vegetables. Assembling the bowls is fun and very kid-friendly. Even if you are new to cooking fish, you can do this with confidence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These bowls use fresh produce and basic pantry seasonings for the best flavor.
- 16 oz Fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups Cooked jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha
- 1 tablespoon Honey
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 1 cup Shelled edamame, steamed
- 1 cup Persian cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium Avocado, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Directions
- Pat the salmon cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Add the salmon cubes to the bowl and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) and arrange the salmon in a single layer.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing the remaining soy sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small dish.
- Assemble the bowls by placing 1 cup of rice in each.
- Top with salmon, edamame, cucumber, and avocado, then drizzle with glaze and sesame seeds.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these bowls warm for a cozy yet light spring dinner. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the spicy sriracha glaze. You can set the table with extra lime wedges for a bright finish. It is a fresh and vibrant meal that looks beautiful.
If you are meal prepping, pack the cold veggies separately from the rice. This keeps the cucumbers crunchy and the avocado fresh. Enjoy this balanced meal at your desk or after a workout. It is the ultimate healthy reset for your body.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for 3 minutes. This keeps the salmon from getting rubbery or dry. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy texture.
Recipe Tips
- Dry the salmon very well before adding the marinade for the best crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket so the air can circulate.
- Use frozen shelled edamame to save time on busy weeknights.
- Swap jasmine rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the spring flavors.
- Make the rice ahead of time to speed up your dinner prep.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Try a spicy version by adding extra sriracha to the marinade.
- Swap the cucumber for shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for an even higher protein boost.
- Add pickled ginger on top for a restaurant-style experience.
Common Questions
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the salmon in the oven. Use a 425°F oven for about 12 minutes. It will still be delicious and tender.
Is this recipe good for kids?
Absolutely, kids love the bite-sized salmon cubes. You can leave the sriracha out of their portion. It is a fun and healthy way to eat fish.
I hope these high protein salmon bowls bring a little sunshine to your table. They are so simple to make and truly satisfying. Happy cooking!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 16 oz Fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups Cooked jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Low -sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Srirach a
- 1 tablespoon Hone y
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 1 cup Shelled edamame, steamed
- 1 cup Persian cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium Avocado , sliced
- 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Pat the salmon cubes thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Add the salmon cubes to the bowl and toss gently until each piece is evenly coated with the marinade.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C) and arrange the salmon in a single layer with space between cubes.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, sriracha, and honey in a small ramekin.
- Assemble the bowls by placing 1 cup of rice in each, topped with half the salmon, edamame, cucumber, and avocado.
- Drizzle the glaze over the salmon and garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
