Mediterranean Salmon Bowl (Printable)

Pan-seared salmon meets crispy rice with fresh vegetables and feta for a vibrant Mediterranean meal ready in 40 minutes.

# What You Need:

→ Fish

01 - 4 salmon fillets (about 5.3 oz each), skin-on, pin bones removed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Rice

04 - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice, preferably chilled
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Vegetables and Toppings

06 - 1 cup baby bell peppers, sliced into rings
07 - 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and thinly sliced
08 - 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
09 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
10 - 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges
11 - 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)
12 - 1 small cucumber, diced (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Place salmon fillets skin-side down and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until skin is crispy. Flip and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
03 - Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet. Add cooked rice, pressing gently with a spatula to form a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes until bottom is golden and crispy. Stir and continue cooking if additional crispness is desired.
04 - In a separate pan, quickly sauté sliced baby bell peppers over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender.
05 - Divide crispy rice evenly among four bowls. Top each portion with one salmon fillet.
06 - Arrange baby bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh cilantro around the salmon. Add olives and cucumber if using.
07 - Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the bowl.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Nutritious and Balanced: A healthy mix of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables.
  • Unique Texture: The contrast between the flaky salmon and the golden crispy rice is a gourmet delight.
  • Quick to Prepare: Goes from prep to table in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Naturally Gluten-Free: A wholesome meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
02 -
  • Dry the Fish: Always pat the salmon skin thoroughly dry with paper towels to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Don't Stir: When crisping the rice, let it sit undisturbed to form a solid golden crust before stirring.
  • Temperature: Use a high-quality nonstick skillet to prevent the fish skin and rice from sticking during the high-heat cooking process.
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