Description
This Crunchy Brown Rice Salmon Bowls recipe combines perfectly broiled salmon filets with a golden, crispy brown rice base and a refreshing herbed tahini dressing. Finished with fresh cucumber slices and a hint of lime, this dish offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon Marinade and Topping
- 4 salmon filets (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Sliced cucumber for serving
Crunchy Brown Rice
- 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice, chilled
- 1/4 cup oil (for frying)
Herbed Tahini Dressing
- 1/3 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice from 1 lime
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup packed cilantro and/or mint leaves
- Water (to desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler and Prepare the Salmon: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the salmon filets on an oiled sheet pan to prevent sticking. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, lime juice, and sesame oil. Brush this marinade evenly over each salmon filet to coat.
- Broil the Salmon: Place the sheet pan under the broiler and cook the salmon for 10-15 minutes, or until the surface is browned and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Make the Crunchy Brown Rice: Heat 1/4 cup oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the chilled cooked brown rice to the pan, pressing it down evenly. Cook uncovered for 15-20 minutes, allowing a golden crust to form on the bottom. Carefully flip the rice out onto a plate to reveal the crispy side.
- Prepare the Herbed Tahini Dressing: In a blender, combine tahini, olive oil, lime juice, honey, and salt. Blend until smooth. Add cilantro and/or mint leaves along with water to thin the dressing to the desired consistency. Blend again until well incorporated.
- Serve the Bowls: Divide the crunchy brown rice among serving bowls. Top each with a broiled salmon filet, sliced cucumber, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added brightness.
Notes
- Use chilled, cooked rice for best results when making crunchy rice to prevent sticking and achieve the perfect crust.
- Keep a close eye on the salmon while broiling as cooking times may vary depending on your oven’s broiler intensity.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can be adjusted based on preference or availability.
- The tahini dressing can be thinned with water gradually to reach your preferred drizzle consistency.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure soy sauce is replaced with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
