The Best Salmon Fried Rice Recipe

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Salmon Fried Rice Recipe: Quick, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed

Looking for a delicious, wholesome meal that comes together quickly? This Salmon Fried Rice is a perfect solution. With tender, flaky salmon, colorful vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice, this one-pan dish is both satisfying and packed with nutrients.

Fried rice is a classic comfort food, but adding salmon elevates it to a hearty, protein-rich meal. Using leftover rice or freshly cooked rice ensures the grains remain fluffy and separate, while a simple mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil gives it that irresistible umami flavor. Perfect for weeknights, quick lunches, or meal prep, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy – Ready in about 25–30 minutes.
  • Protein-packed – Salmon provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or sauces.
  • One-pan cooking – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
  • Family-friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon

  • 1 pound (450 g) salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Fried Rice

  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil or neutral cooking oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup carrots, diced
  • 1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Salmon

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium heat.
  2. Season salmon pieces with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear salmon for 2–3 minutes per side until just cooked through.
  4. Remove salmon from the pan and set aside, leaving any residual oil in the pan.

2. Prepare the Fried Rice

  1. Heat sesame oil in the same pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add garlic, onion, and ginger (if using) and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add carrots and peas, cooking for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender.
  4. Push vegetables to the side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just set.

3. Combine Ingredients

  1. Add the chilled rice to the pan and stir to combine with vegetables and eggs.
  2. Pour in soy sauce and stir continuously to coat evenly.
  3. Gently fold in the cooked salmon pieces, being careful not to break them apart.
  4. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.

4. Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the top.
  2. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for Perfect Salmon Fried Rice

  • Use day-old rice – Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and sticky; chilled rice keeps grains separate.
  • Don’t overcook salmon – Remove it slightly underdone as it will cook further when combined with rice.
  • High heat is key – Ensures vegetables stay crisp and rice doesn’t get mushy.
  • Customize your vegetables – Bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli work beautifully.
  • Soy sauce balance – Adjust to taste for perfect umami flavor without being too salty.

Serving Suggestions

  • Side dish options – Pair with a crisp cucumber salad or sautéed greens.
  • Complete meal – Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
  • Family-style – Serve directly from the pan for casual, fun dining.
  • Add heat – Drizzle with sriracha or chili oil for a spicy kick.

Creative Variations

  1. Teriyaki Salmon Fried Rice – Add 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce to the rice for a sweet-savory twist.
  2. Veggie-loaded – Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
  3. Garlic Butter Salmon Fried Rice – Finish the dish with 1 tablespoon melted butter for a rich flavor.
  4. Cilantro Lime – Squeeze fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro before serving for a fresh, zesty variation.
  5. Low-carb option – Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lighter version.

Meal Prep and Storage

  • Refrigeration – Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to prevent dryness.
  • Freezing – Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Make-ahead tips – Cook rice and chop vegetables in advance for quicker assembly during busy weeknights.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Salmon – Rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting heart and brain health.
  • Vegetables – Carrots, peas, and other optional vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Eggs – Additional protein and nutrients such as vitamin B12 and choline.
  • Sesame oil – Healthy fats and a delicious nutty flavor.

This recipe delivers a nutrient-dense, flavorful meal that satisfies both taste and health goals.

Why This Recipe Works

The Salmon Fried Rice recipe works because:

  • Balanced flavors – Soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic create a savory base that complements the salmon.
  • Perfect texture – Day-old rice stays firm, vegetables remain crisp, and salmon stays tender.
  • One-pan convenience – Reduces cleanup while combining multiple textures and flavors.
  • Versatility – Adaptable to different vegetables, seasonings, or dietary preferences.
  • Quick cooking – Ideal for weeknights when time is short but flavor is essential.

This combination of flavor, texture, and simplicity makes it a go-to recipe for busy cooks and families.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

  • Family-style – Serve directly from the skillet or wok for a casual, communal meal.
  • Plated individually – Scoop fried rice into bowls and top with extra sesame seeds or fresh herbs for a restaurant-like presentation.
  • Garnish tips – Green onions, cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil enhance both flavor and visual appeal.
  • Side pairings – Complement with light Asian-inspired salads, pickled vegetables, or steamed greens.

Final Thoughts

Salmon Fried Rice is an easy, flavorful, and wholesome dish that combines the comfort of fried rice with the nutritional benefits of salmon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a hearty lunch, or meal prep, this one-pan dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to a satisfying meal, this recipe is versatile, easy to customize, and guaranteed to become a favorite. The combination of tender salmon, crisp vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice creates a balanced, nutritious, and incredibly delicious meal.

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