Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing

If you’re craving a dish that’s a little bit fancy, a little bit fun, and 100% delicious, then Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing is about to become your new favorite. This salad is a flavor-packed delight that brings together perfectly crispy rice, tender salmon, and cool, crisp cucumber, all tossed in a dreamy creamy dressing that’s bursting with umami goodness. Imagine the satisfying crunch of crispy rice paired with silky salmon, refreshing cucumber, and that irresistible creamy dressing—each bite is pure heaven! It’s fresh, it’s light, and it’s guaranteed to wow your taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing

Here’s why this salad is about to become your go-to recipe:

• Crispy Rice: The crispy rice adds a delightful crunch that makes this salad so much more interesting. It’s the kind of texture you’ll crave!
• Tender Salmon: Flaky, tender salmon brings a rich, savory flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the other ingredients.
• Cool & Refreshing Cucumber: The cool, crisp cucumber adds a refreshing bite that balances out the richness of the rice and salmon.
• Creamy Asian Dressing: The creamy, tangy dressing is the magic touch that ties everything together. It’s flavorful, slightly sweet, and just the right amount of savory.
• Easy & Impressive: This dish is simple to make but looks and tastes incredibly impressive. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, but also fancy enough for a dinner party.

Ingredients in Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful, satisfying salad:

For the Salad:

• Cooked Rice: You’ll need cooked rice that has been cooled down. Day-old rice works best, as it crisps up better.
• Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star of the show, bringing rich flavor and a buttery texture to the salad.
• Cucumber: Thinly sliced cucumber adds that cool crunch that balances the richness of the salmon and crispy rice.
• Avocado (Optional): For extra creaminess and a mild, buttery flavor that complements the crispy rice.
• Green Onions: Adds a fresh, sharp bite that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients.
• Sesame Seeds: For garnish and a bit of extra crunch.

For the Creamy Asian Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the dressing that makes it rich and velvety.
• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce brings savory umami goodness to the dressing.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the creamy mayo and rich salmon.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: For just a hint of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Sesame Oil: A small amount of toasted sesame oil gives the dressing that signature nutty, savory flavor.
• Sriracha or Chili Flakes (Optional): For a touch of heat if you like a little spice.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dressing and adds a zingy, citrusy flavor.

(Note: The full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into making this incredible salad:

Cook the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is just cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Once cooked, set it aside to cool slightly before breaking it into chunks.

Prepare the Rice

While the salmon is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the pan is hot, add the cooled rice in an even layer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, pressing down occasionally with a spatula, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Stir and continue cooking until all the rice is crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, lime juice, and sriracha or chili flakes (if using). Stir until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—add more soy sauce for saltiness, honey for sweetness, or lime juice for tang.

Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the crispy rice, chunks of roasted salmon, thinly sliced cucumber, and green onions. Toss gently to mix everything together.

Drizzle with Dressing

Pour the creamy Asian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. If desired, top with slices of avocado and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve the salad immediately while the rice is still crispy. Enjoy the satisfying crunch, fresh flavors, and creamy dressing in every bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 370
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 5g
Protein: 18g
Vitamin D: 10µg
Calcium: 40mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 600mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing

This salad is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for pairing it with other dishes:

• Steamed Rice: Serve with a side of steamed white or brown rice for extra carbs if you’re craving more.
• Vegetable Sides: A side of sautéed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, would complement the dish perfectly.
• Crusty Bread: If you want to add a bit of crunch, serve it with warm, crusty bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
• Avocado Toast: A side of avocado toast works wonderfully with this salad for a filling and tasty meal.

Additional Tips

• Rice Tip: If you want extra crispy rice, use a non-stick skillet and make sure your rice is completely cooled before frying.
• Salmon Alternatives: You can swap the salmon for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu if you prefer a different protein.
• Make It Spicy: For those who love spice, try adding extra sriracha to the dressing or sprinkle chili flakes on top for some heat.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the crispy rice and dressing ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the rice.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use cooked salmon instead of roasted?
A1: Yes! You can use cooked salmon from leftovers or canned salmon. Just make sure to flake it into bite-sized pieces.

Q2: Can I make the crispy rice in advance?
A1: Crispy rice is best made fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and store it in an airtight container. Just reheat it in a hot pan to regain the crispiness.

Q3: Can I use a different type of dressing?
A1: Of course! If you prefer a different dressing, a soy-based or tahini dressing could also work well with this salad.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A1: Store the leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The rice will lose its crispiness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Q5: How can I make this salad gluten-free?
A1: Simply ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free (tamari is a great option).

Q6: Can I add other vegetables?
A1: Absolutely! You can add shredded carrots, edamame, or even avocado for extra flavor and texture.

Q7: How do I make the dressing less creamy?
A1: If you want a lighter dressing, simply add a little more lime juice or vinegar to thin it out.

Q8: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A1: Yes! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish, and it works well with the other ingredients.

Q9: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
A1: Yes! Simply omit the salmon and add extra tofu or tempeh for protein.

Q10: What other garnishes can I use?
A1: Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Crispy Rice Salmon Cucumber Salad with Creamy Asian Dressing is an absolute winner! It’s fresh, flavorful, and packed with textures that keep each bite exciting. With crispy rice, tender salmon, and a creamy dressing, this dish has everything you need for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a dinner party. Try it today and watch it become your new go-to!

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