Save to Pinterest A quick and flavorful way to revive leftover salmon and rice using a clever microwave steaming trick, finished with fresh toppings for a balanced meal.
I started using this ice cube microwave hack when I needed a quick lunch that didn't taste like leftovers and found it magically brought rice and salmon back to life with a steamy texture.
Ingredients
- Cooked white or brown rice: 1 cup, leftover
- Cooked salmon: 1 cup, flaked into large pieces
- Ice cubes: 2, for microwave steaming
- Soy sauce or tamari: 2 tablespoons, for gluten-free use tamari
- Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
- Avocado: 1, sliced
- Cucumber: 1, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger: 2 tablespoons
- Toasted sesame seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Scallion: 1, finely sliced
- Chili flakes or sriracha: optional, to taste
Instructions
- Arrange Rice and Salmon:
- Place leftover rice in a microwave-safe bowl and top evenly with flaked salmon.
- Add Ice Cubes:
- Put 2 ice cubes on top of the rice and salmon.
- Cover and Steam:
- Cover the bowl loosely with parchment paper or a microwave-safe plate.
- Microwave:
- Microwave on high for 2 – 3 minutes until ice cubes melt and contents are heated through and moist.
- Finish:
- Remove from microwave, drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Top:
- Arrange avocado, cucumber, and pickled ginger on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallion, add chili flakes or sriracha if desired, and serve immediately.
Save to Pinterest This quick bowl became a weeknight staple, and my family now requests it whenever we have extra salmon for its comforting flavors and healthy feel.
Required Tools
Microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, cutting board make prepping, reheating, and serving super simple.
Allergen Information
Contains fish (salmon), soy (soy sauce), and sesame. Use tamari for gluten-free and double-check labels for safety.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 18 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 27 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Try pairing this bowl with green tea or crisp white wine for a refreshing finish—perfect for busy days.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How does the microwave steam trick keep the food moist?
The ice cubes melt and release steam during microwaving, gently reheating rice and salmon without drying them out.
- → Can I substitute another protein for salmon?
Yes, cooked fish like trout or tofu work well. Just flake or chop and follow the same reheating steps.
- → What toppings can I add for extra flavor?
Try shredded nori, edamame, carrot ribbons, or extra pickled ginger for more color and nutrition.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and verify ingredient labels for any hidden gluten sources.
- → What tools do I need?
You'll need a microwave-safe bowl, microwave, sharp knife, and cutting board for prepping toppings.
- → What can I serve alongside for a complete meal?
Pair with green tea or a crisp white wine to complement the fresh, savory flavors.