About the Recipe
Light, Fresh, and Satisfying: This salad combines the wholesome heartiness of rice with fresh veggies and protein-rich grilled salmon, making it a complete, nourishing meal.
Balanced Flavor and Texture: With the smoky flavor of grilled salmon, fluffy rice, and crisp veggies, every bite offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
Perfect for Any Season: Enjoy it warm in the cooler months or chilled as a refreshing summer dish, making it versatile for year-round enjoyment.
Great for Meal Prep: Easy to make ahead, this salad is an ideal choice for busy days. Just grill the salmon and assemble when you’re ready to enjoy.
Customizable and Adaptable: Add your favorite vegetables, such as cucumber, avocado, or bell peppers, to make it uniquely yours. A sprinkle of herbs or a squeeze of lemon also brings it to life!
Packed with Omega-3s and Fiber: Salmon provides heart-healthy omega-3s, while the rice and veggies offer fiber and essential nutrients, creating a well-rounded, nutritious dish.
What You'll Love
Ingredients
Salmon Marinade
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 lime, juiced
1 clove garlic, minced
salt, and pepper to taste
Salad
2 salmon fillets
1 cup cooked jasmine or basmati rice (cooked & cooled)
1 cup fresh corn kernels (grilled or sautéed)
2 cups baby bok choy, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional)
Dressing
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation
Why Salmon Salad with Bok Choy Should Be Your Next Go-To Meal
If you're looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, this salmon salad with bok choy is a must-try. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and a mix of vibrant vegetables, this salad is not only nutritious but also incredibly satisfying.
The Benefits of Eating Salmon
Salmon is a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes brain function. Including salmon in your diet can also improve your skin health and boost your mood. Plus, it’s a great source of high-quality protein, making it perfect for those looking to build or maintain muscle.
Bok Choy: A Nutrient-Dense Green
Bok choy, also known as Chinese cabbage, is another star in this salad. It's low in calories but packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with calcium and magnesium. Bok choy adds a delightful crunch and a subtle, slightly peppery flavor to the salad, making it a refreshing complement to the rich, savory salmon.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salmon salad with bok choy is ideal for meal prep. You can cook the salmon and chop the vegetables ahead of time, storing them separately until you're ready to assemble. The salad holds up well in the fridge, so it's perfect for packing for lunch or enjoying as a quick dinner on busy days.
Let's get started!
1.Cook your rice:
Before preparing the rest of the ingredients, wash and cook your rice as per the instructions on the package.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the salmon fillets in this mixture for at least 15 minutes.
3. Grill the Salmon:
Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill the salmon fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
Let the salmon cool slightly, then flake into large chunks.
4. Prepare the Vegetables:
Grill or sauté the corn kernels until tender and slightly charred.
Thinly slice the baby bok choy, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled rice, grilled corn, sliced bok choy, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve:
Divide the rice salad among plates or bowls.
Top each serving with chunks of grilled salmon.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.
This rice salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for summer meals. The combination of flavors and textures from the grilled salmon, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing makes it a delicious and healthy choice.
How to Make It Your Own
Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste. Add some avocado for extra creaminess, sprinkle sesame seeds for a nutty flavor, or toss in some quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal. A drizzle of a homemade ginger-soy dressing can elevate the flavors, tying the dish together beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating more fish and leafy greens like bok choy into your diet is a great way to enhance your overall health. This salmon salad with bok choy is not only easy to prepare but also loaded with nutrients that will leave you feeling nourished and energized. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this salad is a fantastic choice.
Can I use other types of rice?Absolutely! This salad works well with jasmine, basmati, wild rice, or even a blend of grains for added texture and flavor.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?Yes! You can grill the salmon and cook the rice ahead. Store them separately and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What’s the best way to grill salmon for a salad?For even grilling, season the salmon and cook it over medium heat until the edges are crispy and the center is just opaque. This helps retain a juicy, tender texture that pairs well with the salad.
How long does this salad keep?Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this salad lasts up to 2 days. It’s a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?Yes, grilled shrimp, chicken, or tofu are delicious alternatives that complement the rice and vegetables beautifully.