Crispy Rice Salad with Salmon
This Crispy Rice Salad with Salmon combines texture, freshness, and bold umami in one satisfying bowl. Oven-crisped rice brings crunch and depth, while tender broiled salmon adds richness. Tossed with edamame, cucumber, avocado, herbs, and a tangy sesame-lime dressing, this salad is hearty enough for a main yet light and vibrant.
Ingredients
Crispy Rice
Salmon
Dressing
Salad Base
Instructions
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Prepare the Crispy Rice
In a bowl, combine cooked rice, soy sauce, crispy chili oil, and sesame oil. Mix until evenly coated. Spread the rice in a thin, even layer on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 40 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and crisp.
Tips:
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Day-old rice crisps better than freshly cooked rice
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Spread thin—crowded rice steams instead of crisping
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Add more chili oil for deeper color and heat
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Prepare the Salmon
In a bowl, toss cubed salmon with soy sauce, onion powder, salt, pepper, honey, sriracha, and olive oil until well coated. Arrange on a baking tray and broil on high for 8–10 minutes, until lightly browned and just cooked through.
Tips:
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Watch closely—broilers work fast
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Slight charring adds flavor without drying the fish
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Don’t overcrowd the pan or the salmon will steam
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Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or cup, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and citrus juice. Set aside.
Tip:
Taste and adjust—this dressing should be tangy, slightly sweet, and savory.
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Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine edamame, cucumber, avocado, crispy rice, green onions, cilantro, and peanuts. Pour over the dressing and toss gently until evenly coated.
Tip:
Add avocado last and fold gently to keep it from breaking down.
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Plate and Serve
Transfer the salad to a deep bowl and top with broiled salmon. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Note
Extra Tips
- This salad is best eaten fresh while the rice stays crispy
- Swap salmon for tofu or shrimp if desired
- Add shredded cabbage or romaine for extra volume
- Finish with a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat
