Blackened Salmon Rice Bowl

Oftentimes, we correlate healthy food, with tasteless food. This does NOT have to be the case. You just need to know how to impart flavor when creating healthy meals. This protein-packed, Blackened Salmon Rice Bowl recipe is super healthy, delicious, and so quick and easy to prepare. The flavor from the homemade blackening seasoning will blow you away. Additionally, roasting the Brussels Sprouts adds another dimension of both texture, and smokiness. This rice bowl recipe can also be adapted using your favorite protein. Blackened chicken and/or shrimp are great alternatives to the salmon.

LET’S TALK SALMON

Typically, Faroe Island salmon is my go-to when creating salmon recipes. This type of salmon is farm-raised. However, it is raised in a contained area of the salmon’s natural habitat. The fat lines in this salmon make it difficult to overcook, and become dry.

If you are looking for a sustainable, wild-caught salmon alternative, King (Chinook) salmon is a great option. Sockeye has a rich flavor and texture and can also be used in this Salmon Bowl recipe.

Salmon Substitutes

• Arctic char
• Steelhead

Protein Alternatives

If you are not a fan of salmon, try this Blackened Rice Bowl using:

• chicken
• shrimp
• tuna
• white fish (ie. cod, flounder, mahi, grouper)
• beef

WHAT IS BLACKENING SEASONING

If you are looking to amp up any meal with big and bold flavors, a blackening seasoning blend will do the trick! Do not let the name fool you, most blackened seasonings are not “hot.” Yes, it is spicy and it does bring a little heat, but not overpowering like other fiery seasoning blends. However, if you are looking to add a blast of heat to your dish, you can easily adjust the spice blend.

Although this cajun-type of seasoning is available for purchase, I highly recommend making your own. Honestly, you likely have everything to make this delicious homemade seasoning in your spice drawer. Leftover seasoning can be sealed in an airtight container and will last up to three months in your pantry.

Just to clarify, the term blackening actually refers to the cooking technique, using a cast iron pan with high heat. Cooking the protein in this manner will give it a charred crust on both sides.

WHAT ABOUT THE RICE

Rice is so very easy to prepare and relatively inexpensive. A few months ago, I purchased this easy to use rice cooker. Bibigo Rice is my go-to for a yummy, microwavable rice option.

In my opinion, the choice of rice in this Blackened Salmon Recipe is just a matter of preference. We can debate all day about the health benefits of brown rice vs. white rice. Go with what you enjoy!

I would however, avoid using sushi rice. Sushi rice will only add a heaviness to this light and healthy dish. The following are all great rice options:

• basmati
• jasmine
• black rice
• brown rice
• wild rice

Why limit these healthy dinner bowls to just plain rice? Try any of these as the base to your Salmon Bowl:

• Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
• Almond Rice Pilaf

LET’S TALK VEGGIES FOR BLACKENED SALMON RICE BOWLS

Roasted Brussels Sprouts added the perfect amount of smokiness and texture to this dish. Honestly, if you are looking for additional or alternative(s) vegetable options for this Blackened Salmon Rice Bowl, the sky is the limit. Again, a matter of preference. Here are a few options:

• broccoli
• cauliflower
• mushrooms
• carrots
• zucchini
• kimchi
• cucumber
• edamame

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST BLACKENED SALMON RICE BOWL

Here are a few tips to how to make this Blackened Salmon Rice Bowl recipe come out perfectly, every single time:

• timing is everything (if cooking rice, as opposed to using a microwavable option, do this first)
• use skinless salmon
• cut salmon into equal, bite-sized pieces
• roast the Brussels Sprouts while you are preparing the salmon, blackening seasoning and sauce.
• adjust the spice level of the blackening seasoning to your liking
• salmon bites can also be prepared in the air fryer or traditional cast iron pan

Air Fryer Salmon Bites

Using the air frying to prepare these spicy salmon bites can be a time saver, as they can air fry while the Brussels Sprouts are roasting.

Here’s how:

• preheat the air fryer to 390°
• spray the inside of the basket with non-stick spray
• place the salmon bites (may have to prepare in batches depending on the size of the air-fryer)
• air fry the salmon for about 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway (internal temperature should be 145° for salmon that is not sushi-grade

HOW TO MAKE THE SPICY SWEET MAYO SAUCE

The sauce is made by combining kewpie mayo (can use regular mayo) with sriracha and sweet chili sauce. Honestly, the taste of this sriracha mayo is out of this world. However, it will add a few more calories and fat to the dish. So, use just a touch. As an alternative, you can top this Salmon Bowl with:

• chili crisp oil
• sesame ginger vinaigrette
• sesame oil
• soy sauce
• ponzu sauce

MEAL PREP AND LEFTOVER SALMON RICE BOWLS

Rice bowls are great for meal prep. This Blackened Salmon with Roasted Brussels Sprouts is a healthy and easy meal prep idea. Seal in airtight containers. Prepare meals for the entire week, or enjoy leftovers, for up to three days in the fridge.

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Our life has changed dramatically in the past few years with the passing of our two goldendoodles, Vegas and Viva. We were lucky enough to have Vegas for five years (totally wish it was longer). Most recently, losing our Viva to a brain tumor in July of 2020. We welcomed our mini goldendoodle 7, almost seven years ago. We just added the amazing Hazel! Of course, I am always posting tons and tons of photos! Be sure to check out my recipe for Pet Bone Broth! This broth is super rich in nutrients and will provide your pet with a multitude of health benefits!

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