Craving something fresh, flavorful, and filling but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen? Let me introduce you to your new favorite meal—Salmon Burrito Bowl! Packed with all the delicious elements of a burrito, but with tender, perfectly cooked salmon taking center stage, this bowl is a perfect combination of healthy, satisfying, and downright delicious. Whether you’re looking for a meal prep option or a fresh dinner that’ll impress, this bowl has it all. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making this on the regular.
The best part? It’s completely customizable! Add your favorite toppings, load it with veggies, or switch things up with your preferred grains or sauces. It’s fresh, vibrant, and packed with all the flavors you love in a burrito, but in a healthier, bowl-friendly version.
Why You’ll Love Salmon Burrito Bowl
Here’s why this recipe is going to steal the show in your kitchen:
Packed with Flavor
The salmon is cooked to perfection, flaky, and flavorful. It’s paired with fresh veggies, zesty lime, and creamy avocado to create a bowl that’s bursting with taste. The best part? Each bite is like a little celebration of flavor!
Healthy and Nutrient-Rich
Loaded with healthy fats from the salmon and avocado, this bowl is a great source of omega-3s, protein, and fiber. Plus, it’s full of colorful veggies to keep things vibrant and nutritious.
Quick and Easy
Dinner doesn’t need to be complicated. This salmon burrito bowl comes together in just about 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking it on a busy weeknight or serving it for a gathering, it’s stress-free and simple.
Customizable
Want to switch up the grains? Use quinoa, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a lower-carb option. Add salsa, hot sauce, or your favorite burrito toppings to make it truly your own!
Meal Prep-Friendly
This dish is perfect for prepping ahead of time. You can cook the salmon and grains in advance, and then just assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for your Salmon Burrito Bowl:
For the Bowl:
- Salmon: Fresh or frozen salmon fillets work great! The salmon is the star of the show, so use a good quality cut for the best flavor.
- Rice: White rice, brown rice, or quinoa – your choice! If you want to make it even healthier, opt for cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Black Beans: These add a hearty and protein-packed element to the bowl.
- Corn: Sweet corn is a classic, adding a nice pop of color and sweetness to balance the savory salmon.
- Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado is the perfect complement to the other ingredients.
- Tomato: Chopped fresh tomato adds brightness and freshness.
- Lime: For that zesty, citrusy kick that ties everything together.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a refreshing herbaceous flavor.
- Greens: A handful of fresh lettuce or spinach for some crunch and extra nutrients.
For the Marinade (for the Salmon):
- Olive Oil: Helps keep the salmon moist and adds richness.
- Lime Juice: For tang and flavor that really complements the fish.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and warmth to the salmon marinade.
- Chili Powder: For a touch of heat and smokiness.
- Cumin: Adds earthy flavor to balance out the heat.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the salmon and bring out all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to dig into this flavor-packed bowl? Let’s get started!
Marinate the Salmon
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Salmon: Coat the salmon fillets in the marinade and let them sit for at least 10-15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to soak in, making your salmon extra tasty.
Cook the Salmon
- Cook the Salmon: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if the skin is still on). Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, until the salmon is fully cooked and flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Bowl Components
- Cook the Rice: While the salmon marinates, cook your choice of rice or quinoa according to package instructions. If using cauliflower rice, sauté it for a few minutes until tender.
- Prepare the Toppings: Dice the tomato, chop the cilantro, and slice the avocado. Set aside.
Assemble the Bowls
- Assemble the Bowls: Start by adding a scoop of rice or quinoa to the bottom of each bowl. Layer on the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and greens.
- Flake the Salmon: Once the salmon is cooked, flake it into bite-sized pieces with a fork, and add it to the top of the bowl.
- Garnish: Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and sprinkle with cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve: Serve immediately while the salmon is warm, and enjoy the vibrant, fresh flavors of your Salmon Burrito Bowl!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350-400
Protein per serving: 30g
Fat per serving: 18g
Carbs per serving: 35g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
How to Serve Salmon Burrito Bowl
This bowl is a meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to take it to the next level:
With Tortilla Chips
Serve the bowl with a side of crispy tortilla chips for some extra crunch and a fun, snackable element.
Add Salsa or Guacamole
If you love some extra flavor, drizzle salsa or add a dollop of guacamole on top of the bowl. It adds a creamy, tangy element that complements the salmon beautifully.
Over Greens
For an even lighter option, skip the rice and serve the salmon and toppings over a bed of fresh greens, like spinach, arugula, or mixed greens.
Additional Tips
- Salmon Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of salmon, feel free to swap it out for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a few slices of jalapeño or drizzle hot sauce over the top.
- Meal Prep: You can make the rice and salmon in advance, and store them separately. Assemble the bowls when you’re ready to eat.
- Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some shredded lettuce for added crunch and nutrition.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon?
A1: Yes, frozen salmon works just as well! Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before marinating and cooking.
Q2: Can I use a different protein?
A2: Absolutely! You can swap the salmon for grilled chicken, shrimp, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.
Q3: Can I make this dish spicy?
A3: Yes, you can add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce over the bowl for a spicy kick.
Q4: Can I use a different grain?
A4: Definitely! You can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftover salmon, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the salmon and rice before assembling the bowl again.
Q6: Can I add more veggies to this bowl?
A6: Yes, feel free to add roasted bell peppers, cucumbers, or any other veggies you love.
Q7: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A7: Yes, you can cook the salmon and rice in advance. When ready to eat, simply assemble the bowls with fresh toppings.
Q8: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A8: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check the labels of any packaged ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
Q9: How can I make this dish even more filling?
A9: You can add more rice or beans to make it more filling. You can also top it with some shredded cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
Q10: Can I make this vegan?
A10: Yes, you can replace the salmon with tofu or tempeh, and use a dairy-free topping like guacamole or vegan sour cream.
Conclusion
This Salmon Burrito Bowl is everything you want in a meal—healthy, flavorful, and so easy to make! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing it with friends, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your recipe lineup. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and bold flavors, it’s a meal that you’ll look forward to eating every time. Enjoy!
PrintSalmon Burrito Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This Salmon Burrito Bowl is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional burrito bowls. Tender, flaky salmon is paired with flavorful rice, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, making it a nutritious meal full of protein and omega-3s. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this bowl is both satisfying and full of vibrant, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 2 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Salmon:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Once done, squeeze fresh lime juice over the salmon. - Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, honey, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice into two bowls. Top with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cilantro. - Add the Salmon:
Flake the salmon into large chunks and place it on top of the veggies and rice in each bowl. - Drizzle with Dressing:
Pour the prepared dressing over the contents of each bowl. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.
- Feel free to swap in different vegetables such as bell peppers, lettuce, or cucumber for variety.
- You can make this bowl ahead of time by prepping the ingredients and storing them separately in the fridge for easy assembly later.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 55mg