Mediterranean Salmon Bowl (Printable Version)

Pan-seared salmon over crispy rice with Mediterranean vegetables and tangy feta.

# What You'll 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, thinly sliced, drained
08 - 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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 becomes crispy. Flip fillets and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
03 - Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the same skillet. Add cooked rice, gently pressing with a spatula to form a single compact layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes until the bottom becomes 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. Drain if needed.
05 - Divide crispy rice among four bowls. Top each portion with one salmon fillet. Arrange sautéed bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh cilantro around the salmon. Add kalamata olives and diced cucumber if using.
06 - Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for garnish and flavor enhancement.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Nutrient-Dense: A high-protein meal rich in healthy fats, making it both Pescatarian and Gluten-Free.
  • Textural Harmony: The contrast between the tender salmon and the golden crispy rice is incredibly satisfying.
  • Quick Prep: A restaurant-quality meal that comes together in just 40 minutes.
02 -
  • Always pat the salmon skin dry with paper towels to ensure it crisps up properly in the pan.
  • Press the rice firmly into the skillet and leave it undisturbed to develop the best crispy bottom.
  • If using olives or cucumber, ensure they are fresh and well-drained to maintain the texture of the bowl.
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