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Quick High-Protein Honey Garlic Salmon Rice Bowl

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A fast, healthy, and protein-packed salmon rice bowl with a sticky honey garlic glaze, perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz / 170 g each), skin on or off based on preference
  • 3 tablespoons honey (raw, local honey recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (about 400 g cooked)
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook 2 cups of jasmine or basmati rice according to package instructions (about 15-20 minutes). If using a rice cooker, set and forget while prepping other ingredients.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine 3 tablespoons honey, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (if using). Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly and becomes glossy—about 5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning the garlic.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Place salmon skin-side down (if skin-on) in the hot pan. Cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and the salmon is cooked about two-thirds of the way through. Flip carefully and cook the other side for 2-3 minutes until salmon is opaque and flakes easily. Avoid overcooking to keep it moist.
  5. Pour the honey garlic glaze over the salmon in the skillet during the last minute of cooking. Spoon the sauce over the fillets to coat them evenly and let it thicken slightly.
  6. While the salmon cooks, steam broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 4 minutes. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes.
  7. Divide cooked rice between four bowls. Top each with a salmon fillet, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the pan over the bowls.
  8. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and texture. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Use wild-caught salmon for better flavor and sustainability. For gluten-free, swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Rice vinegar can be replaced with apple cider vinegar. Avoid burning garlic in the glaze by simmering gently. Rest salmon a minute before plating for juicier texture. Glaze can be made ahead and stored in fridge up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon, honey garlic, rice bowl, high protein, healthy dinner, quick meal, weeknight dinner, meal prep

Find it online: https://gleamgulp.com/quick-high-protein-honey-garlic-salmon-rice-bowl-recipe-for-easy-healthy-meals/