Mediterranean Salmon Bowl (Print Version)

Pan-seared salmon meets crispy rice, fresh vegetables, and tangy feta in this vibrant Mediterranean bowl.

# 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 (in oil, 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)

# Method:

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 is crispy. Flip 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, pressing gently with a spatula to form a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Stir and continue cooking if additional crispness is desired.
04 - In a separate pan over medium heat, quickly sauté sliced baby bell peppers for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender.
05 - Divide crispy rice evenly among four serving bowls. Top each bowl with one salmon fillet.
06 - Arrange sautéed baby bell peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, and fresh cilantro around the salmon. Add kalamata olives and cucumber if using. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Crispy Texture: The combination of crispy-skinned salmon and golden rice provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for a nutritious weeknight meal.
  • Healthy and Fresh: Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, this bowl is both Pescatarian and Gluten-Free.
02 -
  • Ensure the salmon is completely dry before hitting the pan to achieve the ultimate crispy skin.
  • Don't move the rice too much once you press it into the pan; let it sit undisturbed to form that golden crust.
  • Sautéing the bell peppers briefly helps mellow their bite while keeping them vibrant.
Go Back