Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice
If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines vibrant flavors with ease of preparation, you’re in the right place! These Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice are not just a meal; they are an experience. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying, or even for family gatherings where everyone can customize their bowls just the way they like.
What makes this recipe truly special is how the creamy coconut rice pairs beautifully with tender salmon and zesty toppings. Each bite is a burst of flavor that feels both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a meal you can feel good about serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-friendly: Everyone can customize their bowls, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
- Wholesome ingredients: Packed with nutritious elements that make this a guilt-free indulgence.
- Deliciously versatile: Great as leftovers or for meal prep—the flavors only get better!
- Impressive presentation: Beautifully layered bowls that look as good as they taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these delicious spicy salmon bowls! With just a few pantry staples and fresh produce, you’ll be on your way to a fabulous meal.
For the Rice
- 1 1/3 cup jasmine rice, rinsed & drained
- 1 cup full fat coconut milk (canned)
- 1/2 cup water, plus 2 tbsps
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp coconut sugar
For the Pickled Cucumbers
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 2 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
For the Salmon
- 1 lb salmon (skin removed, cubed)
- 3 tbsps avocado oil
- 1 tbsp low sodium tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tsp brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp ginger powder
For the Toppings
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1 tsp nanami togarashi (optional)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp sriracha
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Avocado (sliced)
- Furikake
- Fresh chives, chopped
Variations
One of the best things about these Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice is their flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Try using grilled chicken or tofu for a different twist.
- Change up the grains: Quinoa or brown rice work beautifully if you’re looking for something different.
- Add more veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli or shredded carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Increase the heat by adding more sriracha or some chopped jalapeños!
How to Make Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your jasmine rice with coconut milk and water. This will give your rice a rich and creamy texture. Rinsing your rice helps remove excess starch, ensuring each grain is fluffy. Combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and coconut sugar in a pot. Bring it to a gentle boil, then cover and simmer until cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare Quick Pickled Cucumbers
While your rice cooks, it’s time to make those delightful pickled cucumbers! Mix rice vinegar and white sugar until dissolved. Add your thinly sliced cucumbers to this mixture. Let them sit while you prepare everything else; they’ll soak up all that tangy goodness!
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Next up is our star ingredient—the salmon! In a pan over medium heat, warm avocado oil and add the cubed salmon. Season it with tamari, brown sugar, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Cook until perfectly flaky—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. The mix of seasonings will enhance the natural flavor of salmon without overpowering it.
Step 4: Assemble Your Bowls
Now comes the fun part! Start with a generous scoop of your coconut rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top it with those lovely pieces of salmon followed by pickled cucumbers. Drizzle spicy mayo made from mayonnaise mixed with sriracha and lime juice over everything!
Step 5: Garnish
Finish off your bowls by sprinkling sesame seeds and nanami togarashi if you’re using it. A few slices of avocado add creaminess while fresh chives bring brightness to each bite.
And there you have it—a colorful spread of Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice that are sure to impress your family or friends! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice
Creating the perfect spicy salmon bowls with coconut rice is a delightful journey! Here are some pro tips to make your dish shine:
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh salmon and ripe avocados elevate the flavors and textures of your meal, making each bite more enjoyable.
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Perfectly cook the rice: Rinsing the jasmine rice well removes excess starch, ensuring that your coconut rice is fluffy and not sticky.
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Customize spice levels: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the spicy mayo to suit your taste. This way, you can cater to both mild and spicy preferences at your dinner table.
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Let pickles marinate: Allowing the cucumbers to pickle for at least 15 minutes enhances their flavor and adds a refreshing crunch to your bowls.
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Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add extra toppings like radishes or seaweed for an added crunch or flavor profile that complements the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice
Presenting your spicy salmon bowls can be just as fun as making them! With a creative touch, you can turn a simple meal into a stunning feast.
Garnishes
- Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of these adds a fresh, oniony crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy avocado.
- Toasted sesame seeds: These provide a nutty flavor and visual appeal, enhancing both taste and presentation.
- Microgreens: Toss in some microgreens for a pop of color and an extra layer of freshness that ties everything together.
Side Dishes
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Steamed edamame: These tender soybeans are packed with protein and offer a light, satisfying crunch. Simply sprinkle with sea salt for an effortless side.
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Roasted sweet potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy salmon, creating a balanced plate that’s both healthy and delicious.
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Miso soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting umami flavors that complement the dish without overwhelming it.
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Seaweed salad: The briny flavor of seaweed salad adds an interesting contrast to the rich coconut rice while also providing additional nutrients.
With these tips and serving ideas, you’re all set to impress your family or guests with these delightful spicy salmon bowls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
These spicy salmon bowls with coconut rice are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare components in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the spicy salmon bowls to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the pickled cucumbers and spicy mayo separate to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- For best results, freeze the coconut rice and salmon separately.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The coconut rice can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Salmon is best used fresh but can be frozen if necessary; use within a month for optimal taste.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen coconut rice in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat the rice in a microwave or on a stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist.
- For salmon, use a gentle heat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.
- Serve with freshly sliced avocado and pickled cucumbers for the best experience!
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice.
Can I make Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice without using sriracha?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the sriracha from the spicy mayo. You can also substitute it with another sauce that suits your taste.
What can I use instead of jasmine rice for Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice?
You can substitute jasmine rice with basmati rice or brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.
How long do Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I add more vegetables to my Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like, such as bell peppers, edamame, or shredded carrots. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy creating these spicy salmon bowls with coconut rice as much as I do! This recipe is not only quick and simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family dinner, these bowls are sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!
Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice
Spicy Salmon Bowls with Coconut Rice offer a delightful blend of vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This quick and easy meal is centered around creamy coconut rice paired with tender salmon, topped with zesty pickled cucumbers and fresh garnishes. Each bowl is customizable, allowing everyone to create their ideal dish. Bursting with wholesome ingredients, these bowls not only satisfy your cravings but also provide a nutritious dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 lb salmon, cubed
- 2 small cucumbers
- 3 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tbsp low sodium tamari
- Sriracha (to taste)
- Fresh avocado and chives for garnish
Instructions
- Cook jasmine rice in a pot with coconut milk, water, salt, and coconut sugar until fluffy.
- Prepare pickled cucumbers by mixing rice vinegar and sugar, then adding thinly sliced cucumbers to marinate.
- In a pan, heat avocado oil and cook cubed salmon seasoned with tamari and spices until flaky.
- Assemble the bowls by layering coconut rice, salmon, pickled cucumbers, and drizzle with spicy mayo (mayonnaise mixed with sriracha and lime juice).
- Garnish with sesame seeds, avocado slices, and chopped chives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 625
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
