Salmon Fried Rice
If you’re searching for a vibrant and nutritious meal that’s easy to make at home, look no further than this delightful Salmon Fried Rice. This dish perfectly balances the flaky richness of wild salmon with the wholesome goodness of vegetables and brown rice. It’s a meal that’s not only delicious but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this Salmon Fried Rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this Salmon Fried Rice truly special is its unique combination of textures and flavors. The wild salmon adds a rich, buttery profile, while the cauliflower rice brings a light and fluffy element, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to reduce their carb intake without sacrificing taste. The use of sesame oil imparts a lovely nutty aroma, and the fresh scallions provide a crisp burst of flavor. This recipe is not only versatile but also customizable, allowing you to incorporate any leftover veggies you have on hand.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 4 ounces wild salmon fillet, skinned
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil, divided
- 1 large or 2 small scallions, thinly sliced (whites and greens separated)
- 1/2 cup cooked cold rice, preferably brown short grain
- 3/4 cup cauliflower rice, fresh or frozen
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce or gluten-free Tamari
- Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce, optional for serving
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Skillet or Wok: Essential for stir-frying the ingredients evenly.
- Spatula: To toss and mix the rice and salmon without breaking them.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the scallions and cutting the salmon.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface for chopping your ingredients.
Salmon Fried Rice Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by seasoning the wild salmon fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat half of the sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Scallions
In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil. Add the white parts of the scallions and sauté for about 1 minute until they are fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next, stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to soften. If using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure it’s heated through.
Step 4: Incorporate the Rice
Add the cooked cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the cauliflower rice and scallions.
Step 5: Scramble the Egg
Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten egg into the empty space. Scramble the egg until fully cooked, then mix it into the rice.
Step 6: Add the Salmon and Season
Gently fold the flaked salmon into the rice mixture, along with the soy sauce or Tamari. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and transfer your Salmon Fried Rice to a serving dish. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and drizzle with Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce if desired. Enjoy your meal warm!
Customize for Your Needs
- Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Substitute the wild salmon with cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- For a zesty kick, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving.
Notes on Ingredients
The choice of ingredients can greatly impact the flavor and texture of your Salmon Fried Rice. Wild salmon is recommended for its rich taste and health benefits, but if it’s not available, you can use farmed salmon or even canned salmon as alternatives. Brown short grain rice is preferred for its nutty flavor and chewy texture, but white rice can also work in a pinch. Fresh cauliflower rice is great, but frozen is just as convenient and can save time.
Best Ways to Store
Leftover Salmon Fried Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, let the fried rice cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with any other fish you prefer, such as tuna or mackerel. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed, depending on the type of fish you choose.
What can I do if I don’t have cauliflower rice?
If you don’t have cauliflower rice, you can simply omit it and use more cooked rice. Alternatively, you could use shredded zucchini or finely chopped broccoli as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Salmon Fried Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for quick meals. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free if you use Tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels to ensure that all ingredients are gluten-free.
Bring It to the Table
This Salmon Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together the vibrancy of fresh ingredients and the warmth of home cooking. It’s perfect for impressing family and friends or for those cozy nights in when you crave something comforting yet healthy. Serve it up hot, perhaps with a side of fresh cucumber salad or steamed vegetables, and watch as everyone digs in. The combination of flavors and textures in this Salmon Fried Rice is bound to win hearts (and appetites) at your table.
The next time you’re in need of a quick, nutritious meal, remember this Salmon Fried Rice recipe. With its ease of preparation and customizable options, you can make it your own while enjoying the delightful flavors it has to offer. Happy cooking!
Salmon Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by seasoning the wild salmon fillet with a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat half of the sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining sesame oil. Add the white parts of the scallions and sauté for about 1 minute until they are fragrant.
- Next, stir in the cauliflower rice and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to soften. If using frozen cauliflower rice, make sure it's heated through.
- Add the cooked cold rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Stir well to combine with the cauliflower rice and scallions.
- Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet and pour the beaten egg into the empty space. Scramble the egg until fully cooked, then mix it into the rice.
- Gently fold the flaked salmon into the rice mixture, along with the soy sauce or Tamari. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Remove from heat and transfer your Salmon Fried Rice to a serving dish. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions and drizzle with Sriracha or Chile-garlic sauce if desired. Enjoy your meal warm!
Notes
- Add more vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Substitute the wild salmon with cooked shrimp or tofu for a different protein source.
- Make it spicy by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- For a zesty kick, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top just before serving.
