Crispy Orange Salmon Bowls

Why You’ll Love Crispy Orange Salmon Bowls Recipe

These Crispy Orange Salmon Bowls are bursting with flavor and texture. The crispy, perfectly seared salmon is paired with a tangy orange sauce that brings just the right balance of sweetness and citrus. The freshness of the veggies and the heartiness of the rice make this bowl both satisfying and healthy. It’s a vibrant, feel-good meal that’s full of nutrients and deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to eat clean without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets, skin-on

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 cup cooked jasmine or brown rice

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 1 small carrot, julienned

• 1/2 cucumber, sliced

For the orange glaze:

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper, and lightly dust the skin-side with cornstarch for extra crispiness.

2. Cook the salmon: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon fillets, skin-side down, and cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the salmon over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the orange glaze: In the same skillet, add the orange juice, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to simmer, mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl and add it to the sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the bowls: To assemble, place a serving of rice in each bowl. Add the cooked salmon fillet on top. Drizzle the orange glaze generously over the salmon. Top with fresh vegetables like broccoli, carrot, and cucumber.

5. Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, flavorful orange salmon bowls!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace the salmon with crispy tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Rice alternatives: Swap out jasmine rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to make the dish lower-carb.

• Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, edamame, or avocado to the bowls for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange glaze for some extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salmon and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the orange glaze in a separate container to maintain the crispy texture of the salmon.

• Reheating: To reheat, microwave the rice and vegetables separately, and reheat the salmon in a skillet over medium heat to avoid losing its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it properly before cooking to ensure the best texture.

2. How do I get the skin crispy?

Make sure to dry the skin thoroughly with paper towels and add cornstarch before cooking. Cooking the salmon skin-side down in hot oil will help achieve the crispy texture.

3. Can I make the orange glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the orange glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

4. What other vegetables can I use in the bowl?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini. Any vegetable you like will work well with this dish.

5. How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork when it’s cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

6. Can I use a different type of fish?

While salmon is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute other fish like trout or cod. The cooking time may vary depending on the type of fish.

7. How do I make the dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the orange glaze for a spicy kick.

8. Can I use a non-stick skillet instead of a regular pan?

Yes, using a non-stick skillet will make it easier to cook the salmon without it sticking to the pan, especially for achieving crispy skin.

9. Can I serve this dish without rice?

Yes, you can serve the crispy salmon with a salad or even wrap it in lettuce for a lighter, low-carb option.

10. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover salmon, rice, and vegetables in separate containers in the fridge. The salmon can be reheated in a skillet to maintain its crispiness.

Conclusion

These Crispy Orange Salmon Bowls are a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. With crispy salmon, a tangy orange glaze, and vibrant vegetables, this meal is not only satisfying but also nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, these bowls are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Healthy, delicious, and bursting with flavor—what’s not to love?