Introduction
There’s something magical about a perfectly cooked piece of salmon. Add a sticky, sweet, and spicy glaze, and you’ve got a dinner that feels like a gourmet treat but is ridiculously easy to make. Enter: Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon Bowls.
This dish is the answer to so many weeknight dilemmas. Need something quick? Check. Want a meal that’s packed with flavor? Check. Looking for something healthy but still indulgent? You guessed it—check!
The first time I made this recipe, it was one of those “clean out the fridge” nights. I had a few salmon fillets, some leftover rice, and a bottle of Sriracha. A little experimenting led to what is now one of my family’s favorite meals. The honey balances out the heat from the Sriracha, creating a glaze that clings beautifully to the salmon. Paired with fluffy rice and a vibrant mix of veggies, it’s a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is stunning.
Whether you’re serving this for a quick family dinner or want to impress guests with minimal effort, these bowls are a total winner. And the best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is one of those unicorn meals—delicious, easy, and adaptable to your preferences. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Balanced: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon, fiber from the veggies, and carbs for energy, it’s a meal that fuels you.
- Incredible Flavor: The glaze is the real star here. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the Sriracha brings the heat, and soy sauce ties it all together with umami goodness.
- Customizable: Not a fan of spicy? Adjust the Sriracha. Prefer quinoa over rice? Go for it. This dish is super flexible.
And let’s not forget how gorgeous it looks. The golden glaze on the salmon, the colorful veggies, and the fluffy rice make for a bowl that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking)
- Servings: Serves 4
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 18g
Ingredients
Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 5-6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Honey Sriracha Glaze:
- 3 tbsp honey: Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Sriracha: Adjust to your spice preference for that perfect kick.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Brings a savory depth to the glaze.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: For a subtle aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger: Adds a warm, zesty note.
- Juice of 1 lime: Balances the sweetness and heat with a tangy brightness.
Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: The perfect base for soaking up all that delicious glaze.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds crunch and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers: Refreshing and crisp.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy and indulgent.
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions: For a fresh, herby garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a nutty crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1st step: Prepare the Rice and Veggies
- Cook 2 cups of jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- While the rice cooks, prepare your veggies. Shred the carrots, slice the cucumbers thinly, and cut the avocado into slices. Arrange them on a plate for easy assembly later.
2nd step: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and lime juice until smooth. Taste the glaze and adjust the spice level by adding more honey or Sriracha as needed.
3rd step: Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and releases easily from the pan.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
4th step: Glaze the Salmon
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the Honey Sriracha glaze over the salmon in the skillet.
- Spoon the glaze over the fillets as it begins to thicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Let the salmon cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the salmon rest for a minute or two.
5th step: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with a salmon fillet, arranging it slightly off-center for a visually pleasing presentation.
- Add shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and avocado slices around the salmon.
- Sprinkle chopped scallions and sesame seeds over the top for garnish.
6th step: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the bowls warm with extra lime wedges on the side. The lime juice adds a bright finish that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
How to Serve
Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your Honey Sriracha Salmon Bowls:
- Add a drizzle of extra glaze over the veggies for more flavor.
- Pair with a side of miso soup for a complete meal.
- Serve family-style, placing all ingredients on a platter and letting everyone build their own bowls.
Additional Tips
Here’s how to make sure your Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon Bowls are perfect every time:
- Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh fillets make a big difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when it’s just cooked through. It should flake easily but still be moist in the center.
- Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spice, reduce the Sriracha or replace it with sweet chili sauce.
- Prep Ahead: Cook the rice and chop the veggies in advance to save time.
- Double the Glaze: If you’re a sauce lover, make extra glaze to drizzle over the bowls or save for later.
Recipe Variations
Customize this recipe to suit your tastes:
- Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of mixed greens.
- Vegetarian: Swap salmon for tofu or roasted sweet potatoes and use the same glaze.
- Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, edamame, or sautéed bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Freezing and Storage
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the rice, salmon, and veggies separate for best results.
Freezing:
- Freeze cooked salmon and rice separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the microwave or skillet.
Special Equipment
- Non-Stick Skillet: Ensures the salmon doesn’t stick while searing.
- Microplane: For grating fresh ginger and garlic easily.
- Rice Cooker: A foolproof way to cook perfectly fluffy rice every time.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! Thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight before cooking.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
Reduce the Sriracha or replace it with sweet chili sauce for a milder flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prep the glaze, cook the rice, and chop the veggies in advance. Sear the salmon just before serving for the freshest taste.
What can I use instead of Sriracha?
Sweet chili sauce, gochujang, or even a mix of ketchup and hot sauce work well.
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the salmon in the fridge overnight before cooking. To ensure even cooking, pat the fillets dry once thawed, as excess moisture can interfere with getting that crispy sear.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
No problem! If you’re sensitive to spice, simply reduce the amount of Sriracha or replace it with a milder sauce like sweet chili sauce. You could also try a honey-soy glaze for a sweeter and less spicy alternative.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze, cook the rice, and chop the veggies in advance. When you’re ready to serve, sear the salmon and drizzle with the glaze. This makes it even easier to get a delicious meal on the table quickly.
What can I use instead of Sriracha?
If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you could try gochujang, a Korean chili paste, or even a mix of ketchup and hot sauce for a milder version of the glaze. The key is to keep the balance of sweet and heat!
Can I use another type of fish?
Yes! This recipe works well with other types of firm fish like cod, halibut, or even tuna. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the fillets.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best results, keep the rice, salmon, and veggies separate. If you’d like to reheat, do so gently in a microwave or on the stove.
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon Bowls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey Sriracha Glaze:
- 3 tbsp honey: Adds sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Sriracha: Adjust to your spice preference for that perfect kick.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: Brings a savory depth to the glaze.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: For a subtle aromatic flavor.
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger: Adds a warm, zesty note.
- Juice of 1 lime: Balances the sweetness and heat with a tangy brightness.
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: The perfect base for soaking up all that delicious glaze.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds crunch and natural sweetness.
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers: Refreshing and crisp.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy and indulgent.
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions: For a fresh, herby garnish.
- Sesame seeds (optional): For a nutty crunch.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice and Veggies
- Cook 2 cups of jasmine rice according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- While the rice cooks, prepare your veggies. Shred the carrots, slice the cucumbers thinly, and cut the avocado into slices. Arrange them on a plate for easy assembly later.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Sriracha, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and lime juice until smooth. Taste the glaze and adjust the spice level by adding more honey or Sriracha as needed.
Step 3: Sear the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the salmon fillets in the skillet, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and releases easily from the pan.
- Flip the salmon and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side.
Step 4: Glaze the Salmon
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the Honey Sriracha glaze over the salmon in the skillet.
- Spoon the glaze over the fillets as it begins to thicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Let the salmon cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize slightly.
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the salmon rest for a minute or two.
Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls.
- Top each bowl with a salmon fillet, arranging it slightly off-center for a visually pleasing presentation.
- Add shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and avocado slices around the salmon.
- Sprinkle chopped scallions and sesame seeds over the top for garnish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the bowls warm with extra lime wedges on the side. The lime juice adds a bright finish that complements the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 35g
Conclusion
Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon Bowls are a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The combination of sweet honey, spicy Sriracha, and savory soy sauce creates a glaze that enhances the natural richness of the salmon. Paired with fluffy rice, fresh veggies, and creamy avocado, it’s a meal that checks all the boxes—delicious, nutritious, and quick to make.
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner at home or serving it to guests, these bowls are guaranteed to impress. And with the option to prep ahead, you can have a homemade, flavorful meal ready in no time.
So, next time you’re in the mood for something sweet, spicy, and absolutely irresistible, try these Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon Bowls. They’re bound to become a favorite in your weekly rotation!