Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor, these Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli are exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon glazed in a sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce, paired with fluffy jasmine rice and vibrant steamed broccoli. It’s a wholesome, balanced bowl that feels indulgent without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or meal prepping for the days ahead, this recipe is quick to make, packed with nutrients, and sure to satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it’s easy to customize if you want to switch up the veggies or try a different grain.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic behind these Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli lies in the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The honey and soy sauce blend creates a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the salmon, locking in moisture and giving you that irresistible sticky coating. The garlic brings a punch of aromatic depth, complementing the natural richness of the fish. Jasmine rice is the ideal base, offering a fragrant, slightly floral backdrop that soaks up every drop of sauce. Steamed broccoli adds a fresh, slightly crisp contrast that balances the rich salmon and sweet glaze. This bowl is not just about flavor; it’s about the satisfying combination of colors, textures, and wholesome ingredients that keep you coming back for more.

What’s in the Bowl

• 2 salmon fillets: Fresh, skin-on or skinless, depending on your preference.
• 1 cup jasmine rice: Known for its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
• 2 cups water: To cook the jasmine rice perfectly.
• 1 cup broccoli florets: Steamed to crisp-tender perfection.
• 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness and helps create the sticky glaze.
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides the savory, umami base for the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, robust flavor to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the salmon and sautéing garlic.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted, for garnish and a little crunch.
• Green onions, chopped: Fresh and vibrant garnish to finish the bowls.

Equipment Breakdown

• Medium saucepan: To cook the jasmine rice evenly without sticking.
• Large skillet: For searing the salmon and making the honey-garlic sauce.
• Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl: To steam the broccoli to the perfect texture.
• Knife and cutting board: For prepping salmon, garlic, and garnishes.
• Spoon or spatula: To gently turn salmon and stir the sauce.

Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice

Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, steam 1 cup of broccoli florets until they turn vibrant green and are tender but still crisp, about 4-5 minutes. You can use a steamer basket over boiling water or microwave the broccoli with a splash of water in a covered dish. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Make the Honey-Garlic Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Set this sauce aside — it’s going to be the star glaze on your salmon.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets generously with salt and pepper. Place the salmon skin-side down (if skin-on) in the skillet and cook without moving for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crisp and the fish is cooked about two-thirds of the way through. Flip the salmon carefully.

Step 5: Glaze the Salmon

Pour the honey-garlic sauce over the flipped salmon in the pan. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, spooning the glaze over the salmon as it cooks. The sauce will thicken and caramelize slightly, coating the fish with a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the jasmine rice evenly between two bowls. Add the steamed broccoli on one side, then gently place a glazed salmon fillet on top of the rice in each bowl. Spoon any leftover sauce from the pan over the salmon and rice.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the bowls for extra flavor and a pop of color. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh in every bite.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative to keep the sauce gluten-free.
• Olive oil is naturally dairy-free, so no swap needed there.
• If you prefer a grain other than jasmine rice, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Ensure your honey is pure and unadulterated for the best natural sweetness.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Overcooking the salmon: Salmon cooks quickly, and overcooking can dry it out. Keep an eye on the fish and remove it from heat as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if burned. Add it to the sauce mixture or skillet carefully and avoid cooking it on high heat alone.
• Sticky rice issues: Rinsing the rice properly before cooking prevents it from becoming gummy or sticky.
• Broccoli mushiness: Steam broccoli just until crisp-tender to preserve its bright color and nutrients.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

These Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli make fantastic leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the salmon and broccoli in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the fish. You can reheat the rice separately with a sprinkle of water to maintain its fluffiness. To enjoy the glaze at its best, drizzle any reserved sauce or a little fresh honey-garlic mixture over the reheated salmon.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the salmon completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This helps the fish cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from diluting the honey-garlic sauce.

What can I substitute if I don’t have jasmine rice?

You can swap jasmine rice with basmati rice for a similar fragrant profile. Alternatively, brown rice or quinoa are excellent nutritious options that pair well with the honey-garlic salmon and broccoli.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the honey-garlic sauce or drizzle some chili garlic sauce over the finished bowls for a spicy kick that complements the sweet glaze perfectly.

Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the rice and broccoli in advance and keep them refrigerated. Cook the salmon and glaze it just before serving to maintain its texture and flavor. This approach works great for quick weeknight dinners.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Sheet Pan Salmon With Peach Sriracha Glaze – Another delicious salmon recipe with a fruity, spicy twist.
• Lemon Pepper Salmon Rice Bowls – Bright and zesty bowls that make a fresh change from honey-garlic flavors.
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup Better Than Panera Bread – If you love broccoli, this comforting soup is a must-try.

In Closing

Making Honey-Garlic Salmon Rice Bowls with Broccoli is a straightforward way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without the hassle. The combination of sweet and savory glaze, tender salmon, aromatic jasmine rice, and crisp broccoli makes every bite a delight. This bowl is not only delicious but also nourishing and quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something wholesome yet satisfying. Don’t be afraid to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping the rice for grains like quinoa to keep it exciting. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

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