Mediterranean Salmon Bowl (Printable)

Pan-seared salmon with crispy rice, colorful vegetables, and Mediterranean toppings for a satisfying meal.

# 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 & 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)

# Steps:

01 - Pat salmon fillets dry and 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 - In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and cooked rice. Press 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 crisping if 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 among four bowls and top each with a salmon fillet.
06 - Arrange baby bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, fresh cilantro, olives, and cucumber around the salmon. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
  • Texture Heaven: The combination of flaky salmon and crispy, pan-fried rice provides a delightful crunch in every bite.
  • Nutrient-Dense: Packed with 33g of protein and healthy fats, it's a balanced pescatarian and gluten-free option.
02 -
  • Don't be tempted to stir the rice too early; letting it sit undisturbed in the skillet is what creates the golden, crispy bottom.
  • When cooking the salmon, start with a cold skillet if you prefer a more gradual heat, but for the crispiest skin, ensure the oil is shimmering hot before adding the fish.
Return