February 04, 2025
Spicy Salmon Bowls with Avocado, Cucumber, and Coconut Rice
If you're looking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying, a Spicy Salmon Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber, and Coconut Rice is the perfect choice. This tasty dish combines the rich flavors of marinated salmon with the creamy texture of avocado, the refreshing crunch of cucumber, and the subtly sweet taste of coconut rice. Not only does it taste amazing, but each ingredient offers its own unique set of benefits. Let’s take a closer look at why this bowl is a powerhouse of nutrients, and why you should make it part of your regular meal rotation.
The Power of Salmon: Omega-3s and More
Salmon is often referred to as a "superfood," and for good reason. This fatty fish is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for overall wellness. Omega-3s are particularly beneficial for heart health, helping to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels.
Salmon is also an excellent source of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and growth, as well as for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. It's packed with vitamins, including vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune function, and B vitamins such as B12, which help with energy production and cognitive function.
The spicy sauce made from soy sauce, Mānuka honey, and chili that coats the salmon not only enhances the flavor but also adds an extra layer of benefits:
1. Soy Sauce: A fermented condiment, soy sauce is a source of amino acids, which support muscle and tissue repair. In moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet, and its umami flavor boosts the overall taste of your meal without the need for excessive salt.
2. Mānuka Honey: This unique type of honey, which comes from the Mānuka tree in New Zealand, is known for its antibacterial properties. It also has high levels of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Mānuka honey has a lower glycemic index than regular honey, making it a better option for those looking to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
3. Chili: The heat from chili peppers comes from a compound called capsaicin, which has been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat loss. Chili also contains vitamin C, which is essential for immune health, and can help improve circulation.
The Creamy Goodness of Avocado
Avocado is more than just a trendy topping—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. One of the key benefits of avocado is its high content of healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, which are known to promote heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels. These healthy fats also help keep you feeling full longer, making avocado an excellent addition to any meal for controlling hunger and preventing overeating.
In addition to healthy fats, avocado is rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. It’s also packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and supports healthy skin, as well as potassium, which helps maintain proper fluid balance and supports heart function.
With its creamy texture, avocado adds a luxurious feel to the spicy salmon bowl, balancing out the heat from the chili and providing a smooth contrast to the crunch of cucumber.
The Refreshing Crunch of Cucumber
Cucumber may seem like a simple vegetable, but it brings its own set of benefits to the table. With its high water content (about 95%), cucumber is incredibly hydrating, making it an excellent choice for promoting skin health and keeping you refreshed. Hydration is also essential for proper digestion and maintaining healthy joints.
Cucumbers are a great source of vitamin K, which is crucial for blood clotting and bone health. They also contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and tannins, which can help reduce inflammation and protect your body from the effects of free radicals.
The cool, crisp crunch of cucumber contrasts beautifully with the richness of the salmon and avocado, adding a refreshing and satisfying element to the bowl.
The Sweet and Nutty Flavor of Coconut Rice
Coconut rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy salmon. The coconut in coconut rice provides a naturally sweet flavor, while also delivering a healthy dose of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that is metabolized differently from long-chain fats. MCTs are easily converted into energy by the body, making them a great fuel source for those looking to maintain energy levels throughout the day.
In addition to MCTs, coconut rice provides fiber and magnesium, a mineral that supports muscle function, energy production, and bone health. Coconut rice also contains iron, which is necessary for red blood cell production and oxygen transport in the body.
Moreover, the creamy texture of the coconut rice adds depth to the dish and balances the spicy and savory flavors of the salmon, making it a comforting and satisfying base for the bowl.
A Balanced and Nutrient-Dense Meal
When combined, these ingredients create a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that’s rich in healthy fats, high-quality protein, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
- Healthy Fats: Salmon, avocado, and coconut rice are all excellent sources of healthy fats that promote heart health and help maintain healthy skin and hair.
- Protein: The salmon provides high-quality protein that supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function.
- Fiber: Avocado, cucumber, and coconut rice are rich in fiber, which helps support digestive health, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
- Hydration: The high water content in cucumber helps keep you hydrated, which is essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting skin health.
A Spicy Salmon Bowl with Avocado, Cucumber, and Coconut Rice is not just a delicious meal—it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that supports overall wellness. Whether you’re looking to improve heart health, boost metabolism, or enjoy a refreshing and filling meal, this dish delivers on all fronts. The combination of omega-3-rich salmon, fiber-packed avocado, hydrating cucumber, and energy-boosting coconut rice makes this bowl a perfect choice for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing flavor.
So next time you’re craving a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying, give this spicy salmon bowl a try—you’ll be nourishing your body while indulging in a burst of flavor!
Ingredients
For the rice:
- 1 1/3 cup jasmine rice, rinsed & drained
- 1 cup full fat coconut milk (canned)
- 1/2 cup water, plus 2 tbsps
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp Mānuka honey (we used MGO 85+ squeezy)
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1 tsp Mānuka honey (we used MGO 85+ squeezy)
- 2 small cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1 lb salmon (skin removed, cubed)
- 3 tbsps avocado oil
- 1 tbsp low sodium tamari (or soy sauce)
- 1 tsp Mānuka honey (we used MGO 85+ squeezy)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp ginger powder
- 1 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1/3 cup mayonaise
- 2 tsp sriracha
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Avocado (sliced)
- fresh chives, chopped
Instructions
For the rice:
- In a rice cooker, combine the rice, coconut milk, water, salt and Mānuka honey and mix to combine. Cover and set to cook. Once cooked, fluff the rice and keep warm until ready to assemble.
For the cucumber:
- Mix together the vinegar and Mānuka honey in a shallow dish or bowl. Add the cucumber and toss to coat. Let it sit while you prepare the salmon.
For the salmon:
- Preheat the oven to broil on high (550°F).
- Place the cubed salmon in a large bowl and add the oil and toss to combine.
- Transfer the salmon to a large rimmed baking sheet. Place in the oven and broil for six to eight minutes, depending on your preference, until slightly browned and cooked through.
For the spicy mayo:
- While the salmon is cooking, make the spicy mayo. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha and lime juice.
To assemble:
- Divide the rice into bowls and top with cucumber and salmon. Add the avocado and garnish chives. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the salmon and season with salt if needed. Enjoy
