There’s something truly delightful about the vibrant colors and fresh flavors of a poke bowl, and my Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon will awaken your senses like nothing else. Picture this: tender, flaky salmon, perfectly seared and nestled atop a bed of fluffy sushi rice, complemented by creamy avocado and crisp cucumber. As I prepared this dish, the aroma of sesame and soy sauce wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a beachside eatery in Hawaii.
On a busy weeknight, when fast food starts to lose its appeal, this poke bowl is a lifesaver. It’s not just quick and simple—taking only about 35 minutes from prep to plate—but it also feels like a celebration of freshness and flavor. Perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging myself, it reminds me that homemade food can be both nourishing and exciting. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Why You'll Love This Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon
- This Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet meal right at home without any hassle.
- The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, with the tender salmon and fresh vegetables creating a delicious harmony that will delight your taste buds.
- Its versatility means you can mix and match toppings based on your preferences, making it suitable for everyone at the table.
- Not only is it visually stunning with its vibrant colors, but it also saves you time in the kitchen, giving you more moments to enjoy your meal rather than spend it cooking.
- This recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser and will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon Ingredients
For the Salmon
• Salmon fillets – the star of the dish, offering rich flavor and healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
• Olive oil – used for searing, it enhances the salmon’s natural flavor.
• Salt and pepper – essential for seasoning, adjusting to your taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Soy sauce – adds umami depth to the salmon marinade; for a gluten-free option, use tamari.
• Sesame oil – brings a nutty aroma that elevates the overall taste.
For the Sushi Rice
• Sushi rice – the foundation of your poke bowl; its sticky texture helps bind all the elements together.
• Water – crucial for cooking the rice; use the correct ratio for best results.
• Rice vinegar – adds a gentle tang after folding into the cooked rice.
• Sugar – balances the acidity of the vinegar, enhancing the rice’s flavor.
• Salt – brings out the flavors; adjust to your preference.
For the Toppings
• Avocado – creamy and rich, offering a lovely contrast in texture and taste.
• Cucumber – adds a refreshing crunch that complements the dish beautifully.
• Carrot – grated or julienned for a sweet crunch; enhances visual appeal.
• Radish – provides a peppery bite and color pop to the poké bowl.
• Green onions – sprinkle for a mild onion flavor, freshening up the entire bowl.
For the Sauce
• Soy sauce – for drizzling over the finished bowl, deepening the flavor profile.
• Rice vinegar – a touch of brightness in your sauce, complementing the ingredients perfectly.
• Honey – balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, adding subtle sweetness.
• Sriracha (optional) – for those who love a spicy kick, enhancing the overall taste experience.
For Garnish
• Sesame seeds – perfect for adding a delicate crunch and nutty flavor.
• Nori sheets (optional) – thin strips can offer an additional layer of umami, making your poke bowl even more delightful!
This Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon combines flavors and textures to create a dish that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to look at.
How to Make Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon
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Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This essential step removes excess starch for that perfect sushi rice texture.
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Cook the rinsed rice in a rice cooker or saucepan, adding 1 1/4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes until tender. After cooking, let it sit covered for 10 minutes.
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Mix a small bowl of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Carefully fold this mixture into the cooked rice, allowing the rice to cool slightly while you prep the salmon.
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Marinate the salmon fillets by combining soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl. Let the salmon soak in this flavorful mixture for about 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors.
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Sear the salmon in a skillet preheated over medium-high heat with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side until it reaches your desired doneness. Let the salmon rest for a few moments before slicing it.
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Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha in a small bowl (if using). This savory-sweet sauce will add the finishing touch to your poke bowl.
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Divide the seasoned sushi rice among serving bowls, creating a cozy bed for all the toppings you’ll add next.
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Top the rice with beautifully sliced seared salmon, alongside creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, grated carrot, radish, and green onions for a burst of freshness.
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Drizzle the prepared sauce over your colorful creation, and finish off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and nori strips if you’re feeling adventurous!
Optional: Add pickled ginger on the side for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon?
Imagine an exquisite dinner spread that brings warmth and joy to your table, perfectly complementing the refreshing flavors of a poke bowl.
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Crispy Seaweed Salad: A drizzle of sesame oil and seaweed brings a delightful crunch and enhances the oceanic flavor profile.
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Sushi Rolls: Light and packed with flavor, these rolls can be filled with anything from crab to avocado, creating a fulfilling side.
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Miso Soup: The umami richness of miso soup warms the soul, striking a perfect balance with the fresh ingredients of your poke bowl.
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Edamame: Lightly salted and pop-in-your-mouth tender, edamame offers a delightful contrast to the poke bowl while providing extra protein.
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Pickled Vegetables: A touch of acidity and brightness from pickled veggies can cut through the richness of the salmon, making every bite more exciting.
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Coconut Rice: Creamy and subtly sweet, coconut rice is a delicious twist that perfectly complements the savory elements of your poke bowl.
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Green Tea: A refreshing and earthy drink, green tea enhances the overall dining experience, bringing a serene and calming vibe to your meal.
Experience the harmony of flavors and textures as you create a delightful spread that elevates your Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon to new heights!
Make Ahead Options
These Poke Bowls with Seared Salmon are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the sushi rice and marinate the salmon up to 24 hours in advance. For optimal flavor, cook the sushi rice, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Marinate the salmon fillets in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to sear. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet, sear the salmon for about 3–4 minutes on each side, and assemble your poke bowl with the prepped veggies and sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh, delicious meal that feels just as exciting as a freshly made dish!
How to Store and Freeze Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon
Fridge: Store any leftover poke bowl components separately in airtight containers. The sushi rice, toppings, and sauce will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Unfortunately, we don’t recommend freezing this poke bowl with seared salmon as the texture of the salmon and fresh vegetables may suffer—better enjoyed fresh!
Reheating: If you need to reheat the sushi rice, place it in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water, cover it, and microwave in short intervals until warmed through. Avoid reheating fresh veggies and salmon.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the rice and marinate the salmon ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours to save time on busy weeknights!
Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon Variations
Feel free to get creative with your poke bowl and make it truly your own by trying these scrumptious twists!
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Spicy Tuna: Substitute the salmon with sushi-grade tuna. Marinate the tuna in soy sauce and a dash of sriracha for a delightful kick. This fresh twist will take your poke bowl to new heights!
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Quinoa Base: Swap out sushi rice for cooked quinoa for a protein-packed, gluten-free option. Its nutty flavor adds a unique touch while still providing a satisfying base for your toppings.
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Vegan Option: Replace the salmon with marinated tofu or tempeh. A quick soak in soy sauce and sesame oil gives a savory flavor that complements the other fresh ingredients beautifully.
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Pickled Veggies: Add a layer of tangy, pickled vegetables like daikon or carrots for an extra zing. This acidity complements the richness of the salmon, creating a vibrant flavor bomb in every bite.
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Crispy Onions: For a crunchy texture boost, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top. Their savory crunch adds depth and an irresistible layer of flavor to your dish.
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Mango Salsa: Dice up some fresh mango and mix it with lime juice and cilantro for a sweet and zesty topping. This tropical addition brightens the bowl and balances the savory elements.
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Bowl of Heat: If you’re a spice lover, enhance the kick with fresh jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil. This fiery addition brings warmth and excitement to the dish!
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Herb Varieties: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint in place of green onions for a refreshing twist. Their aromatic qualities elevate the overall flavor profile and create a delightful sensation.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making your Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon, be sure to rinse the sushi rice thoroughly; this removes excess starch and helps achieve the perfect sticky texture.
- Avoid high heat when searing the salmon to prevent it from cooking unevenly or burning on the outside while remaining raw inside.
- Letting the seasoned rice cool slightly before adding toppings ensures that the fresh ingredients don’t wilt or lose their crispness.
- Lastly, when marinating your salmon, allow at least 10 minutes for it to absorb the flavors from the soy sauce and sesame oil for a more delicious bite.
Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for salmon fillets that are bright in color and have a fresh, ocean-like smell. Avoid any fillets that look dull or have dark spots. When selecting an avocado, gently squeeze it—ripe fruit should yield slightly without feeling mushy. For the cucumber and carrot, pick firm ones with no blemishes for that perfect crunch!
How should I store leftovers?
Great question! Store any leftover poke bowl components separately in airtight containers. The sushi rice, toppings, and sauce will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure everything is well-sealed to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze the poke bowl?
Very! Unfortunately, we don’t recommend freezing this poke bowl with seared salmon because the texture of the salmon and fresh vegetables may suffer—better enjoyed fresh! If you do want to freeze the rice, place it in an airtight container with a sheet of parchment paper to prevent freezer burn, and it can last up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing!
What if my sushi rice turns out sticky or mushy?
No worries! If your sushi rice is too sticky, it may have been rinsed insufficiently, allowing too much starch to remain. Make sure you rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. If it’s mushy, it might have been overcooked—be mindful of your timings. Getting the perfect consistency can take a little practice, but you’ll get there!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This poke bowl can be easily adapted for dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, swap out soy sauce for tamari. Additionally, if you have a fish allergy, consider substituting the salmon with grilled chicken or tofu. For a vegetarian option, pile on more greens like edamame, bell peppers, or roasted vegetables for added richness.
Can my pet have any of these ingredients?
Yes! While fish like salmon can be a healthy treat for dogs in moderation, be sure to remove all seasoning before sharing. Avoid feeding avocado to pets, as it can be harmful to them. Always double-check with your vet if you’re unsure about specific foods before offering them to your furry friend!
Equipment
- rice cooker
- skillet
- Small bowls
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 2 fillets Salmon
- 1 tbsp Olive oil for searing
- to taste Salt for seasoning
- to taste Pepper for seasoning
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp Sesame oil
For the Sushi Rice
- 1 cup Sushi rice
- 1.25 cups Water for cooking the rice
- 2 tbsp Rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- to taste Salt for flavor
For the Toppings
- 1 medium Avocado sliced
- 1 small Cucumber sliced
- 1 medium Carrot grated or julienned
- 2 units Radish sliced
- 2 tbsp Green onions sliced
For the Sauce
- 2 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Sriracha optional
For Garnish
- 1 tbsp Sesame seeds
- 1 sheet Nori optional, cut into strips
Instructions
How to Make Poke Bowl with Seared Salmon
- Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the rinsed rice in a rice cooker or saucepan, adding 1 1/4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes until tender.
- Mix a small bowl of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Carefully fold this mixture into the cooked rice, allowing the rice to cool slightly while you prep the salmon.
- Marinate the salmon fillets by combining soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl. Let the salmon soak in this flavorful mixture for about 10 minutes.
- Sear the salmon in a skillet preheated over medium-high heat with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, cooking for about 3–4 minutes on each side until it reaches your desired doneness.
- Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha in a small bowl (if using).
- Divide the seasoned sushi rice among serving bowls.
- Top the rice with beautifully sliced seared salmon, alongside creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, grated carrot, radish, and green onions.
- Drizzle the prepared sauce over your colorful creation, and finish off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and nori strips if you’re feeling adventurous!
