Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing Recipe
Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing is the ultimate nourishing comfort meal, combining tender baked salmon, nutty brown rice, crisp fresh veggies, and a drizzle of creamy, flavor-packed dressing. Every bite is a burst of texture and color, making these bowls not only a feast for the taste buds but also a stunner at the table. Whether you’re craving a wholesome weeknight dinner or a show-stopping lunch, this Mediterranean-inspired dish promises satisfaction with each forkful—balanced, vibrant, and fresh!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Despite tasting gourmet, all the ingredients in Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing are accessible and easy to pull together. Each one delivers either punchy flavor, unbeatable crunch, or eye-catching color, and the dressing ties everything together like a hug.
- Cooked brown rice: The deliciously nutty base that soaks up all the flavors and keeps you satisfied.
- Salmon fillets: Rich, buttery, and packed with omega-3s, these are at the heart of the bowl.
- Olive oil: Helps salmon roast to juicy perfection and lends silkiness to the dressing.
- Salt and black pepper: A must for bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Shredded carrots: Adds a burst of color and just the right hint of sweetness and crunch.
- Sliced cucumber: Cool, crisp, and hydrating—perfect for balancing the richness of the salmon.
- Shredded red cabbage: Brings brilliant purple hues and extra crunch to every bite.
- Avocado (sliced): Creamy, smooth, and full of healthy fats for that irresistible, velvety bite.
- Toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds: Adds crunch and a lightly toasted, nutty touch.
- Chopped fresh parsley or dill: A pop of green flavor that perks up the platter beautifully.
- Tahini: The luscious, earthy base for your dressing that brings everything together.
- Lemon juice: Zesty and bright, it lifts the whole dish and keeps the dressing light.
- Water: Adjusts the consistency to make the dressing perfectly pourable.
- Grated garlic: Adds just the right kick and aromatic undertone to the dressing.
- Chopped fresh herbs: Think parsley, dill, or cilantro—total flavor stars in the tahini dressing.
How to Make Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing
Step 1: Bake the Salmon
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Arrange the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle each with a touch of olive oil and season both sides with salt and black pepper. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the fish is flaky and tender. This simple method keeps the salmon juicy and full of flavor, and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Herbed Tahini Dressing
While the salmon is working its magic in the oven, it’s time to make the creamy dressing that’ll bring the whole bowl together. In a small bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, grated garlic, and plenty of chopped fresh herbs. Whisk vigorously until thoroughly combined, adding more water until the dressing is smooth and pourable. Taste and season with a touch of salt and pepper to suit your liking.
Step 3: Prep the Veggies
Gather your crisp, colorful toppers—shred the carrots and cabbage, slice the cucumber and avocado. If you want ultra-chilled veggies, pop them into the fridge for a few minutes while the salmon finishes baking. This will make each bite incredibly refreshing and contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the salmon and rice.
Step 4: Build the Bowls
Start with a generous scoop of brown rice in each serving bowl, creating a hearty foundation. Add piles of shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, red cabbage, and avocado, arranging them in sections for a picture-perfect presentation. Lay a baked salmon fillet front and center, then sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crunchy almonds. Drizzle liberally with the herbed tahini dressing you made earlier.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Bring it all home by scattering chopped parsley or dill on top for extra flavor and a burst of green. Serve your Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing warm or at room temperature—both ways are equally delicious and inviting.
How to Serve Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing
Garnishes
There’s something special about that final sprinkle! A handful of fresh chopped herbs makes a gorgeous, aromatic finish. If you like, add extra sesame seeds, sliced chilies, or even a wedge of lemon for squeezing at the table. These little touches add a bright, fresh layer to Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
Although these bowls are hearty enough to stand alone, they also play beautifully with light sides. Think a zippy cucumber salad, roasted chickpeas for added crunch, or even a hunk of warm pita bread. These extras make dinner feel extra special, especially if you’re serving a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Creative Ways to Present
For a showstopper, assemble Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing in a large platter for family-style sharing—everyone can reach in and build their own perfect bowl! If you’re packing lunch, use mason jars: layer rice, veggies, salmon, and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. Hosting a dinner? Arrange ingredients in separate dishes and let guests customize their own creations. Every approach makes this dish feel fresh and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Store Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing components in separate containers in the refrigerator. The veggies will stay crisp, the salmon moist, and the dressing thick and flavorful for up to 3 days. Just combine before serving for a fresh bowl every time.
Freezing
While the veggies and dressing are best fresh, you can freeze extra cooked salmon and brown rice. Cool completely, then store the salmon and rice in airtight bags or containers for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating and assembling your bowls.
Reheating
To bring the salmon and rice back to life, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until just warmed through. Don’t forget to whisk the tahini dressing again if it’s thickened, and always add your fresh veggies and garnishes at the last minute for maximum crunch and color.
FAQs
Can I use a grain other than brown rice?
Absolutely! Try using quinoa, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. Each one adds its own special texture to Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing.
What herbs are best in the tahini dressing?
Fresh parsley, dill, and cilantro all work beautifully! Go with whatever you love or have on hand, or mix and match for a fuller, garden-fresh flavor in your herbed tahini dressing.
Can I make Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing vegan?
Yes, it’s simple! Swap the salmon for roasted tofu or tempeh, and follow the exact same steps. The bold dressing and colorful veggies mean you won’t miss the fish at all!
How long will the herbed tahini dressing keep in the fridge?
This dreamy dressing stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give it a stir or thin it with a splash of water before using again.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing is naturally gluten-free as long as your grain of choice is safe—and it’s so flavorful nobody will think twice about what’s missing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about building a bowl that feels both casual and deeply special. When you’re looking for a meal that’s nourishing, bold, and absolutely gorgeous, Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing is the answer. Once you try this recipe, you’ll want it on repeat—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to something truly delicious tonight!
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Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Crunchy Brown Rice Salmon Bowls with Herbed Tahini Dressing is a delicious and nutritious meal that combines flaky salmon with wholesome brown rice and a flavorful tahini dressing. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Brown Rice Salmon Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup sliced cucumber
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds or chopped almonds (for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
Herbed Tahini Dressing:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water (plus more to thin)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small garlic clove (grated)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, or cilantro)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.
- Prepare the herbed tahini dressing: Whisk together tahini, lemon juice, water, olive oil, garlic, and chopped herbs in a small bowl. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
- Assemble the bowls: In serving bowls, layer brown rice, shredded carrots, cucumber, cabbage, and avocado. Top with a salmon fillet, sprinkle with sesame seeds or almonds, and drizzle with the herbed tahini dressing.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use roasted chickpeas or crispy rice instead of seeds.
- To make it vegan, substitute salmon with roasted tofu or tempeh.
- The tahini dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
