Salmon Poke Bowl
Fresh, vibrant, and healthy. Cubed raw salmon marinated in a savory soy-sesame sauce, served over sushi rice with crisp veggies and creamy avocado. A taste of Hawaii in your own kitchen!
For 4 servings
3 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook and Season the Sushi Rice
- b.Rinse the sushi rice in a fine-mesh sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents gummy rice.
- c.Add the rinsed rice and 1.5 cups of water to a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- d.Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
- e.After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 10 minutes to steam.
- f.While the rice stands, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved.
- g.Transfer the warm rice to a large, non-metallic bowl. Drizzle the vinegar mixture over the rice and use a rice paddle or spatula to gently fold and 'cut' it in, being careful not to mash the grains. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare the Salmon and Marinade
- b.While the rice is cooking, prepare the salmon. Pat the fillet completely dry with paper towels.
- c.Using a very sharp knife, cut the salmon into uniform 3/4-inch cubes. Place the cubes in a medium bowl.
- d.In a separate small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the marinade.
- e.Pour the marinade over the salmon cubes. Add most of the sliced green onions (reserving some for garnish) and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- f.Cover and let the salmon marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, but no more than 30 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare Toppings and Assemble
- b.While the salmon marinates, prepare your toppings: dice the cucumber, slice or cube the avocados, and thinly slice the radishes.
- c.To assemble, divide the seasoned sushi rice evenly among four bowls, creating a base.
- d.Spoon a generous portion of the marinated salmon over one side of the rice.
- e.Artfully arrange the cucumber, avocado, edamame, and radishes in sections around the salmon.
- f.Garnish the bowls with toasted sesame seeds and the remaining sliced green onions.
- g.Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use high-quality, sushi-grade or sashimi-grade salmon to ensure it's safe to eat raw. Ask your fishmonger for their recommendation.
- 2For easier, cleaner cuts, place the salmon fillet in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before cubing.
- 3Don't marinate the salmon for more than 30 minutes. The acid in the marinade can start to 'cook' the fish (like ceviche), changing its texture.
- 4Season the sushi rice while it's still warm. This allows the grains to absorb the vinegar mixture more effectively.
- 5To prevent avocado from browning, slice it just before assembling the bowls.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Replace salmon with sushi-grade ahi tuna, cooked shrimp, scallops, or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Whisk 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha or Japanese chili crisp into the marinade, or drizzle the finished bowls with sriracha mayo.
Tropical TwistTropical Twist
Add 1/2 cup of diced fresh mango or pineapple to the bowls for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Base VariationBase Variation
Substitute sushi rice with cooked quinoa, brown rice, or a bed of mixed greens for a lighter, lower-carb version.
Extra CrunchExtra Crunch
Top your bowl with crispy fried onions, wonton strips, or macadamia nuts for added texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3s, which are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
With a significant amount of protein from both salmon and edamame, this bowl helps with muscle repair, keeps you feeling full and satisfied, and supports a healthy metabolism.
Packed with Fiber and Nutrients
The variety of fresh vegetables like avocado, cucumber, and edamame provides essential dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support digestive health and overall wellness.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from the sushi rice offer a steady release of energy, making this a perfect meal to fuel your afternoon or recover after a workout.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Salmon Poke Bowl contains approximately 650-750 calories, depending on the exact size of the avocados and the amount of toppings used. It's a well-balanced meal with healthy fats, protein, and carbohydrates.