Are you looking for the best delicious salad that’s fresh and crunchy, but also loaded with texture? This Crispy Rice Salmon Salad will tick all the boxes. It’s a nod to the viral cucumber salad trend, but with a twist of savory.
Think flaky salmon, scrumptious cucumbers as well as creamy avocado umami edamame, golden crispy rice, all topped off with a delicious Asian-style dressing that’s simply out of the ordinary.
When you’re making a meal, or serving it up fresh as a lunch option, this recipe will be an absolute standout. In this article, we’ll look at the ways to make this unique and delicious dish, as well as share your own kitchen secrets and demonstrate how you can make it memorable.
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A Love Letter to My Crispy Rice Salmon Salad
Memories made with Flavor and Crunch
If you want to know what I think joy tastes like it’s this Crispy Rice Salmon Salad. I can still recall my first experience when I prepared it. My daughter sat alongside me, giggling while she snuck avocado cubes off the cutting board, while the scent of spicy chili and sesame oil hung in the air. On that day, I wasn’t only cooking; I was making a memory one that I’m able to identify with this delicious crispy, delicious dish.
Crispy rice can be a game changer in any salad. And when paired with the delicate flake of salmon baked in the oven with creamy avocado, as well as lively greens, the end result is something different from the ordinary. This isn’t just a simple salad but a complete sensory experience. The textures–creamy, crispy and crunchy–work perfectly each bite feels like a moment of celebration.
It’s also adaptable. If the salmon is leftover, freshly cooked filets, jasmine Rice or any other grain of your choice the salad blends in a way that is at once comforting and refined. When I say that my Crispy Rice Salmon Salad is ideal to prepare meals I’m not just saying it. It lasts beautifully in the refrigerator and tastes equally delicious the following day or even better.
For those who appreciate healthy, flavor-packed meals that are nutritious This recipe is great with protein-packed and quick bowls like this spicy peanut-tofu dish, or an inviting option from the single-pan meal collection. It’s flexible, fun for the family and honestly enjoyable to eat.
A Fusion of Vibrant Ingredients
The essence of this Crispy Rice Salmon Salad is the balance. The cool Persian cucumbers, a rich avocados, as well as the rich umami of sesame and soy oils combine to create something enchanting. Even my most picky eaters request for a second serving. The creamy Asian Dressing with a hint of ginger and honey is the perfect final touch. It’s creamy enough but not being too strong, and keeps the salad fresh and vibrant.
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Crispy Rice Salmon Salad That’s Creamy, Crunchy & Flavor-Packed
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This crispy rice salmon salad is layered with crunchy cucumbers, creamy avocado, flaky salmon, and crispy jasmine rice. Tied together with a creamy Asian dressing, it’s a refreshing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 Cups Cooked Rice (cooled)
2 Tsp Soy Sauce
1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
2 Tbsp Chili Crisp
¼ Cup Dried Onion (Minced)
¼ Cup Dried Garlic (Minced)
1 Tbsp Smoked Paprika
½ Tsp Sea Salt
1.5 Tbsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
½ Tsp Chili Powder
¾ Cup Olive Oil
8 oz Salmon
½ Tsp Sea Salt
½ Tsp Black Pepper
½ Tsp Garlic Powder
5 Persian Cucumbers (sliced)
1 Cup Edamame (shelled)
1 Bunch Green Onions (thinly sliced)
2 Avocados (chopped)
¼ Cup Olive Oil
¼ Cup Toasted Sesame Oil
3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
3 Tbsp Rice Vinegar
2 Tbsp Honey
1.5 Tsp Ground Ginger
½ Tsp Kosher Salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss cooled rice with soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili crisp. Spread on sheet.
Bake rice for 30–40 minutes, stirring halfway, until crispy.
Season salmon with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder. Bake 13–14 mins.
Shred salmon with fork. Set aside with crispy rice.
Slice cucumbers, chop avocados, green onions, and combine in large bowl.
Add edamame, salmon, and crispy rice to the bowl.
Blend all dressing ingredients until smooth.
Pour dressing over salad and toss to combine.
Serve fresh or store separately for meal prep.
Notes
Use fully cooled rice for optimal crisping.
Swap salmon with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Store leftovers in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 37 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Crispy Rice – The Secret Crunch That Makes It Addictive
How to Make Perfect Crispy Rice
The main attraction of this Crispy Rice Salmon Salad is, undoubtedly the golden, crispy rice. If you’ve ever enjoyed crisp rice sushi bites you’re aware of how delicious the crunch can be. This recipe bakes cool jasmine rice, tossed with chili crunchy, sesame oil and a smoky mix of dried onions garlic, paprika, as well as red pepper flake until we get that perfect consistency. It’s spicy, fragrant, and absolutely addicting.
The best advice is to cook completely cool rice that has been completely cooled. This stops it from becoming soft and also allows it to be evenly crisped. Spread it out in an even layer, and stir it every now and then for an all-around crunch. You can also prepare the rice in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight for an even more delicious texture.
To find a different method to make rice more nutritious check out our delicious grain bowls that blend healthy bases with tasty toppings.
The Science Behind the Crisp
What is the reason rice cooks in such a way? The ratio of rice to oil is important. The use of olive oil to make the rice with a touch of sesame flavor guarantees a golden-colored end without deep frying. The high oven temperature (400degF) will give you an evenly crisp outcome. Paprika provides a smokey flavor and crushed chili flakes add the perfect level of heat.
You’ll know when it’s done when the edges become golden, and the scent emanates from the kitchen. Make sure to include the chili crisp as it’s the element that gives all the umami-y goodness and is a perfect match with the rich Asian dressing in this crisp fish salad made of rice.
Building the Ultimate Salad Base (Crispy Rice Salmon Salad)
Cucumber, Avocado & Edamame Power Trio
How can this Crispy Rice Salmon Salad be so refreshing and delicious simultaneously? The juicy, crunchy cucumbers, the creamy avocados and edamame, a protein-rich edamame. Together, they provide the perfect contrast to crisp sushi and flaky rice. I like making use of Persian cucumbers due to their size and texture, however an English cucumber can be used as well.
When you chop avocado, make certain to choose firm but ripe ones to ensure they can hold their shape. The addition of a squeeze of lemon on chopped avocado may help avoid browning when you prepare it in advance. You’ll be amazed by the way avocado’s sweetness is a perfect match for the tang and spice within the meal.
Layering Texture Like a Pro
Great salads revolve around the texture. This one is crisp, soft, crunch and creamy all together in one bite. Layer the cucumbers thinly cut first, then the edamame, scallions and avocado. Include the salmon and rice that has been crisped just before serving, so that they stay fresh.
If you are meal-prepping you are making a salad, separate the dressing and mix it all together just before eating to keep the delicious crunch. This method of layering makes every spoonful of food exciting and can help you stay clear of the soggy salad that everyone hates.
The Creamy Asian Dressing That Ties It All Together
A Flavor Bomb in a Jar
Let’s discuss the dressing. This creamy Asian dressing is what will take this Crispy Rice Salmon Salad up a notch. It is made with olive oil as well as toasted sesame oil Soy Sauce, Rice Vinegar ginger, honey and a pinch sea salt. The dressing is smooth without mayonnaise, and strong without overwhelming.
Blending it until it is smooth and easy to pour. It adheres well to cucumbers and rice, giving the perfect amount of flavor in every bite. The leftovers can be stored in sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to a week. It is a fantastic drizzle for grains or roasted vegetables as well.
Why It Works
This dressing is successful due to the balance between acidity salt, sweetness and umami. Rice vinegar adds an astringent, tangy flavor, and honey softens everything. The sesame oil that has been toasted gives it a an earthy flavor that perfectly complements the smokey paprika flavor of the rice.
The kind that will cause people to ask “What is this?” immediately after taking eating the very first spoonful. I usually take a bit extra to ensure that it doesn’t disappear faster than I expected!
Conclusion – Crispy Rice Salmon Salad
This Crispy Rice Salmon Salad has everything that a good salad should be – creamy, crunch and delicious. Fresh, it’s fresh and bursting with flavor. Its fusion of different flavors and bold dressing this dish will delight your guests whether you’re cooking just for one or feeding the family. From the rice that is crispy to the delicious salmon as well as the creamy sauce, each ingredient in this recipe tells an amazing story. It’s easy to prepare meals, infinitely adaptable, and is sure to remain a regular favorite within your home kitchen. So the next time you’re in need of something fresh and delicious you’ll know what you’ll need to prepare.
FAQs About Crispy Rice Salmon Salad
How can you prevent the rice crisp from getting too wet in salads?
To keep the rice crisp keep it in a separate container until you’re ready to serve. Just before serving, add it to the salad and don’t dress the salad ahead of time.
Can I make use of canned salmon in place of fresh?
Absolutely, canning salmon can be used as a fast substitute. Simply drain it and then lightly season it prior to adding it to your salad to get the best taste.
What is a substitute for avocado for this recipe?
For those who aren’t a big fan of avocado, you can substitute diced mango for sweetness, or roasting sweet potatoes to create creaminess that has a twist.
This Crispy Rice Salmon Salad is great to use for meal preparation?
Absolutely! Prepare all the ingredients in advance and keep them in a separate container. Dress and put together just prior to eating to preserve the texture and taste fresh.