This is one of those dinners that looks like takeout, but tastes even better — and it comes together fast.

I started making these bowls when I was craving something warm and comforting, but still clean and nourishing. The homemade teriyaki sauce is simple but rich in flavor, the salmon gets perfectly glazed, and when you layer it over rice with fresh veggies? It’s everything.

I love this one for weeknights, and the leftovers reheat beautifully — which makes it one of my go-to meal prep recipes too.

9Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Salmon:

• 1.5 lbs salmon fillets, cut into 4 portions

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari

• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger

• 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (to thicken)

For the Bowls:

• 2 cups cooked brown or white rice

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cup cucumber slices or matchsticks

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

• Green onion for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the sauce:
   In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer over medium heat. Mix cornstarch with water, stir in, and cook until thickened. Set aside.

2. Cook the salmon:
   Season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear salmon 3–4 minutes per side, or until just cooked. In the last minute, spoon teriyaki sauce over the fillets to glaze.

3. Assemble the bowls:
   In each bowl, layer rice, veggies, and avocado. Top with salmon, drizzle with extra sauce, and sprinkle sesame seeds and green onion if using.

Sarah’s Tips

• Make it ahead: Cook the rice and prep veggies earlier in the day to make dinner a breeze.

• No salmon? Try this with tofu or chicken for a tasty variation.

• Need it gluten-free? Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480

• Carbs: 36g

• Sugars: 8g

• Fat: 24g

• Protein: 34g

• Fiber: 5g