Mediterranean Salmon Bowl (Printable)

Pan-seared salmon with crispy rice, fresh vegetables, and Mediterranean toppings

# 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 feta cheese, crumbled
09 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
10 - 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges

→ Optional

11 - 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
12 - 1 small cucumber, diced

# 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 4-5 minutes until skin is crispy. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes until just 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 layer. Cook undisturbed for 3-5 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Stir and continue crisping if desired.
04 - In a separate pan over medium heat, sauté sliced baby bell peppers for 2-3 minutes until just tender. This step is optional but recommended for enhanced flavor.
05 - Divide crispy rice evenly among four serving bowls. Top each portion with one salmon fillet.
06 - Arrange sautéed baby bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh cilantro around the salmon. Add kalamata olives and cucumber if using.
07 - Serve immediately while rice and salmon are still warm, with lemon wedges on the side for brightness.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • High in lean protein and heart-healthy fats from the salmon.
  • The crispy rice technique adds a satisfying texture to the base of the bowl.
  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 40 minutes for a weeknight win.
  • Customizable with fresh toppings like olives, cucumber, and feta cheese.
02 -
  • Always pat the fish dry with paper towels; moisture is the enemy of crispy salmon skin.
  • Do not stir the rice too early; let it sit undisturbed to develop a deep golden crust.
  • Use a heavy spatula to press the rice down firmly into the skillet for even browning.
Return