Pin it A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I first tried this method after having extra salmon and rice from dinner the night before. I wanted something fresh but didn't feel like turning on the stove, so this microwave steaming trick was a game changer for quick, moist reheating.
Ingredients
- Cooked rice: 1 cup white or brown rice, leftover
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2 ice cubes for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Optional: chili flakes or sriracha
Instructions
- Layer rice and salmon:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add ice cubes:
- Place 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover for steaming:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high for 2 – 3 minutes until the ice melts and food is heated through and moist.
- Season:
- Remove from microwave; drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Add toppings:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Finish:
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallion. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired. Serve immediately.
Pin it This recipe quickly became a family favorite on busy weeknights when everyone needs a wholesome dinner in minutes.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free and check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 27 g protein.
Pin it A quick steam and fresh toppings bring new life to leftovers: perfect for busy nights when you crave fast flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How does the ice cube trick help?
Placing ice cubes on top gently steams the rice and salmon, keeping them moist while reheating without drying out.
- → Can I use other proteins besides salmon?
Yes, substitute cooked fish, shrimp, or tofu to suit preference or dietary needs, maintaining similar cooking steps.
- → What toppings can be added?
Try avocado, cucumber, pickled ginger, scallion, sesame seeds, chili flakes, shredded nori, edamame, or carrots for extra texture and flavor.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the bowl gluten-free, and always check ingredient labels for hidden gluten sources.
- → How is this dish served?
Serve immediately after steaming and finishing with toppings for maximum freshness and vibrant texture.
- → Which tools are required?
You need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board for preparation and serving.