If you’re searching for a meal that’s as comforting as it is vibrant, the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl is the answer you never knew you needed. This gorgeous bowl brings together flaky salmon, fluffy rice, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies, then ties it all together with a savory sauce that’s just the right balance of rich and zesty. It’s the perfect way to breathe new life into last night’s salmon, delivering nourishing flavor in under 15 minutes. Whether you’re throwing lunch together on a busy workday or seeking a fuss-free dinner, this recipe promises a delicious, colorful bite in every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl plays a role, from delivering satisfying textures to building up irresistible flavor. With just a handful of essentials that work beautifully together, you’ll likely have everything you need waiting in your fridge or pantry.
- Flaked cooked salmon: The crown jewel of this bowl, using leftovers means less waste and even more flavor—grilled, baked, or poached all work beautifully.
- Cooked rice (white or brown): Fluffy, warm rice provides the perfect neutral base to soak up every delicious droplet of sauce.
- Avocado (sliced): Creamy slices add luscious richness and a pop of color—don’t skip this if you love silky texture in your bowl.
- Shredded carrots: Sweet and crisp, carrots bring a bite of freshness and a lovely orange hue.
- Cucumber (sliced): Cool, juicy cucumber balances the warmth of the rice and adds plenty of crunch.
- Soy sauce: The salty, umami-packed backbone to the signature sauce—opt for low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free.
- Sesame oil: Just a drizzle imparts toasty depth that ties the entire bowl together.
- Rice vinegar: A splash of tangy vinegar brightens every ingredient and offers that essential lift.
- Sriracha (optional): Add a gentle heat and zing—perfect if you want a little kick.
- Sesame seeds: For garnish and subtle crunch, these tiny seeds add visual flair and flavor.
- Green onion (sliced): Their fresh, peppery snap is the finishing touch, cutting through the richness.
- Lime wedges: Squeeze on just before serving for a burst of freshness that wakes up every bite.
How to Make Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl
Step 1: Whisk Up the Sauce
Start by preparing the bowl’s flavor-packed sauce. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, fragrant sesame oil, sharp rice vinegar, and, if you’re craving heat, a little sriracha. Whisk everything together until smooth and glossy—this will be your magic touch for drizzling over the bowls later.
Step 2: Warm the Salmon and Rice
Even though leftovers are the star, a quick reheat transforms them into a cozy meal. Pop the cooked rice and flaked salmon into the microwave or warm gently on the stovetop, just until heated through. This step ensures your Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl comes together with a comforting, homey feel.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowls
Divide the warm rice between two bowls, then artfully arrange the flaked salmon on top. Layer on avocado slices for richness, add shredded carrots and crisp cucumber for color and crunch, and scatter over the green onions for a burst of freshness. Every bowl should look like a mini masterpiece!
Step 4: Sauce and Garnish
Drizzle the sauce evenly over each bowl so every bite is infused with bright, savory flavor. Scatter sesame seeds over the top for subtle nuttiness and extra texture. Finish with fresh lime wedges on the side, ready to squeeze over at the table.
How to Serve Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl

Garnishes
Garnishes aren’t just decorative—they transform the experience of your Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl! Try a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds, more green onion, a little nori, or even some pickled ginger for a zingy twist. The squeeze of lime is non-negotiable for that last pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair your bowl with a light miso soup, steamed edamame, or a small seaweed salad for a super satisfying meal. If you’re extra hungry, crispy spring rolls or dumplings are fabulous extras that turn your bowl into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl “bar” style: lay out the toppings and sauces for everyone to build their own custom creation. Or try layering the ingredients in a glass jar for a portable desk lunch that’s as good-looking as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra components, store the rice, salmon, and toppings in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This keeps textures fresh and prevents anything from getting soggy, especially those crisp veggies. Assemble just before eating for the best flavor and crunch!
Freezing
While rice and salmon both freeze well (separately!), it’s best to avoid freezing the fresh veggies or avocado, as their texture changes after thawing. If you’re planning ahead, portion out the rice and salmon in airtight freezer containers and thaw overnight before assembling your bowl.
Reheating
To warm salmon and rice, use the microwave in short bursts or gently steam on the stovetop, with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating avocado or raw veggies—simply add them cold for that fresh, vibrant finish each time.
FAQs
What kinds of salmon work best for this bowl?
Absolutely any leftover cooked salmon is fair game—grilled, baked, broiled, or even poached. Each one brings a unique flavor twist to your Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl. Just make sure it’s flaked and free from any skin or bones.
Can I substitute the rice with something else?
Definitely! Cauliflower rice is ideal for a lower-carb option, and quinoa or farro add a fun, nutty spin. The Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl is endlessly adaptable to what grains or alternatives you have on hand.
How spicy is this recipe?
The base recipe is mild, but a dash of sriracha (or more, if you love heat) brings a wonderful fiery kick. Keep the sauce mild for kids or those sensitive to spice, and let everyone customize with their own sriracha or chili crisp at the table.
Is this bowl gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. All the other ingredients in the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs.
What else can I add to customize this bowl?
Your imagination is the limit! Try a soft-boiled or fried egg, steamed edamame for more protein, or quick-pickled radishes. Roasted seaweed, kimchi, or a drizzle of spicy mayo are also delicious ways to make your Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
With a handful of wholesome ingredients and just a little inspiration, the Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl will quickly become your go-to for fast, flavorful meals. Give it a try—you’ll fall in love with how simple, customizable, and utterly crave-worthy it is, every single time.
Print
Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a quick and flavorful meal with this Easy Leftover Salmon Rice Bowl recipe. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, this Asian-inspired dish is packed with protein and nutrients. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
For the Bowl:
- 1 cup cooked salmon (flaked)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1/2 avocado (sliced)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup cucumber (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion (sliced)
- lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha.
- Warm Rice and Salmon: Heat the cooked rice and salmon until warmed through.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide rice into two bowls, top with salmon, avocado, carrots, cucumber, and green onion.
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle with prepared sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- This bowl is versatile – try adding steamed edamame, pickled ginger, or a fried egg for extra flavor.
- Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Leftover grilled, baked, or poached salmon all work well in this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg