Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl

Name: Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 oz fresh salmon, thinly sliced; 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 1/2 cucumber, julienned; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; Nori sheets (optional, for garnish); Pickled ginger (optional, for serving)

Highlighted under: Borderless Food

I absolutely love making this Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl whenever I'm craving something fresh and flavorful. The combination of creamy avocado and succulent salmon, paired with sushi rice, creates a delightful meal that's as fun to prepare as it is to eat. It's a straightforward recipe that reflects the essence of sushi without the fuss of rolling. I typically have all the ingredients at home, and it's perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a quick go-to for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T15:06:19.216Z

When I first tried making sushi at home, I was intimidated, but this bowl made it so accessible. Using pre-cooked sushi rice allowed me to focus on getting the toppings just right. The key is to let the rice cool slightly before assembling; this keeps the avocados from browning too quickly while giving everything a chance to meld.

I've experimented with various toppings over time, but fresh salmon and creamy avocado always steal the show. Pairing them with a drizzle of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds elevates the dish, turning it into my favorite weeknight indulgence.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly
Perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite
No complex rolling techniques required, making it easy to enjoy sushi at home

      

Choosing Fresh Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients is crucial for this Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl. When selecting salmon, aim for sushi-grade fish, which is safe to eat raw. Look for bright color and a fresh smell without any fishy odor. If you're uncertain about your local seafood quality, some grocery stores offer pre-packaged sushi-grade salmon. Additionally, choose a ripe avocado: it should yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating it's ready to slice. If it's firm, let it ripen at room temperature for a day or two.

Incorporating fresh vegetables elevates this dish. When selecting cucumbers, choose a firm one with no blemishes. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use English cucumbers; their thin skins and fewer seeds make them perfect for sushi. For a bit of crunch and additional color, consider adding vibrant vegetables like bell peppers or radishes, which can be julienned similarly. This will not only offer a variety of textures but also enhance the visual appeal of your sushi bowl.

Perfecting the Sushi Rice

The sushi rice is the foundation of your bowl, so it's important to cook it properly. Rinse it several times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch; this helps achieve the desired stickiness. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider seasoning the rice with a mixture of rice vinegar, sugar, and salt after cooking. This not only adds depth but also gives the rice that subtle sushi taste that pairs so well with the salmon and avocado.

If you're prepping ahead, sushi rice can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, reheat the rice gently in the microwave or steam basket, keeping it covered to maintain moisture. You want it warm but not hot, as it brings out the flavors of the toppings better when at a mild temperature.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl:

Ingredients

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 oz fresh salmon, thinly sliced
1 ripe avocado, sliced
1/2 cucumber, julienned
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Nori sheets (optional, for garnish)
Pickled ginger (optional, for serving)

Mix all the ingredients together in your bowl or serve them separately for a DIY experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Avocado Salmon Sushi Bowl:

Prepare the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool for 5 minutes.

Assemble the Bowl

In a bowl, add a generous scoop of the cooled sushi rice. Top with slices of salmon, avocado, and cucumber. Drizzle soy sauce over the top and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Garnish and Serve

Optionally, serve with nori sheets and pickled ginger on the side. Enjoy your homemade sushi bowl!

Enjoy your sushi bowl immediately for the freshest experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, marinate the salmon in a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil before assembling your bowl. This adds a delicious depth to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For an interactive dining experience, consider serving the bowl with additional toppings. Edamame, seaweed salad, or pickled vegetables can all add unique flavors and textures. If you enjoy a little spice, adding a dollop of wasabi or a drizzle of sriracha can really kick things up. Alternatively, offering a variety of dipping sauces, such as teriyaki or ponzu, can also complement the ingredients well.

To create a more substantial meal, serve your sushi bowl alongside miso soup or a light salad made with sesame dressing. These additions can round out the meal, making it satisfying without being overly heavy.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this sushi bowl to suit your taste. For example, replace salmon with other proteins like shrimp, tofu, or even crab meat. Each of these options has its own unique flavor profile and can change the entire experience of the dish. You might also experiment with alternative grains, like quinoa or brown rice, for a different nutritional base if you're looking for a slight variation.

Herbs can also elevate your sushi bowl. Adding freshly chopped cilantro or mint can impart a bright flavor that complements the creamy avocado and rich salmon beautifully. Don’t hesitate to play with seasonal ingredients to keep the dish fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cooked salmon instead of raw?

Absolutely! Cooked salmon works perfectly and is a great option if you're not comfortable with raw fish.

→ What type of rice should I use?

Sushi rice is best for this recipe because of its sticky texture, but you can also use short-grain rice if sushi rice is unavailable.

→ Is there a substitute for avocado?

Yes, you can use cream cheese for a different flavor, although it will change the profile of the dish.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.