Name: Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons light brown sugar; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon grated peeled fresh ginger; ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1 pound thick-cut salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 2-inch pieces; 1 tablespoon neutral oil, such as avocado or vegetable oil; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon wasabi paste; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon); 4 cups coconut rice; 1 cup cooked edamame; 3 Persian cucumbers, sliced; 1 avocado, sliced; Minced fresh cilantro, to taste; Sesame seeds (optional)

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 11 reviews

There is something truly magical about a Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing—it’s that perfect harmony of flavors that instantly lifts your spirits. This dish marries tender, juicy salmon glazed in a luscious teriyaki marinade with a creamy, zingy wasabi dressing that adds just the right kick. Paired alongside coconut rice, fresh edamame, crisp cucumbers, and buttery avocado, every bite bursts with layers of texture and vibrant taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share with friends, this Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing will become an instant favorite in your kitchen.

Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing this Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing. Each component is simple but impactful, contributing essential flavors, textures, and colors that make this recipe shine beautifully on your plate.

Light brown sugar: Adds the perfect subtle sweetness that balances the savory soy in the teriyaki marinade.
Minced garlic cloves: Infuses aromatic depth and a punch of flavor to the salmon.
Grated fresh ginger: Offers a warm, zesty note that complements both the salmon and dressing.
Low-sodium soy sauce: Grounds the marinade with its rich umami without overwhelming the palate.
Thick-cut salmon fillet: The star of the dish, delivering tender, flaky richness.
Neutral oil (avocado or vegetable): Essential for searing the salmon beautifully to a golden crisp.
Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess for the wasabi dressing’s smooth texture.
Wasabi paste: Brings that characteristic spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the dressing with fresh acidity and a refreshing zing.
Coconut rice: A subtly sweet and fragrant base that enhances the tropical flair of the bowl.
Cooked edamame: Adds a nice pop of green color and hearty protein.
Persian cucumbers: Their crispness cuts through the richness with cool freshness.
Avocado: Offers creamy texture and mild flavor that ties everything together.
Minced fresh cilantro: Sprinkles a burst of herbal brightness on top.
Sesame seeds (optional): A toasty garnish adding subtle crunch and nuttiness.

How to Make Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing

Step 1: Marinate the Salmon

Start by whisking together the brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce in a medium bowl to create a fragrant teriyaki marinade. Toss the salmon pieces gently in the mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Letting the salmon soak up those bold flavors for at least 30 minutes—ideally longer if you have the time—makes a huge difference. The marinade tenderizes the fish and infuses it with that irresistible savory-sweet essence that defines this dish.

Step 2: Cook the Salmon

Heat a tablespoon of neutral oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet until shimmering. Remove the salmon from the marinade, letting any excess drip off to avoid overcrowding the pan. Carefully place the pieces in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for perfectly browned, caramelized edges with a tender, flaky center. Cooking in batches ensures your salmon sears beautifully without steaming. The aroma at this stage is truly mouthwatering and signals you’re well on your way to an amazing bowl.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Wasabi Dressing

While the salmon cooks, prepare the zingy wasabi dressing by whisking mayonnaise, wasabi paste, and fresh lemon juice in a small bowl. The creamy base tempers the heat of the wasabi just enough, while the lemon juice adds a fresh acidity that brightens the whole dish. This dressing is what sets your Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing apart, lending a luscious, lively finish to every bite.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Divide warm coconut rice into four bowls, creating the base of your meal. Artfully top each bowl with the cooked salmon, vibrant edamame, crisp cucumber slices, and creamy avocado. Drizzle the wasabi dressing generously over the top and sprinkle with minced cilantro and sesame seeds to add fresh herbal notes and a crunchy contrast. Each component contributes to a beautiful, balanced meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to your palate.

How to Serve Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds are your go-to garnishes here, elevating the bowl with their bright and nutty flavors. You might also consider thinly sliced green onions or pickled ginger for an extra pop of color and zing. These little touches make serving this dish a lively experience that invites everyone to dig in.

Side Dishes

This bowl perfectly stands alone but pairs wonderfully with lightly dressed seaweed salad or a simple miso soup to keep the meal light yet satisfying. If you want to add crunch, a side of crispy tempura vegetables can balance the creaminess of the wasabi dressing beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the components deconstructed so everyone can build their own Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing exactly how they like. Or try layering the salmon and toppings in a clear glass for a stunning visual that shows off the vibrant colors and textures—great for impressing guests! Wrapping the fillings in large lettuce leaves can transform it into a handheld delight too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing components should be stored separately to preserve their best texture and flavor. Keep the cooked salmon and coconut rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Store the dressing in a separate jar to maintain its freshness and consistency.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon pieces before assembling the bowl. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer-safe bags for up to one month. Avoid freezing the dressing and fresh veggies, as their texture will change significantly once thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the salmon and coconut rice in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid drying out the fish. Add the wasabi dressing fresh when serving to keep its creamy zing alive. Refresh the vegetables by briefly chilling or quickly tossing them to revive their crispness.

FAQs

Can I use skin-on salmon for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer skin-on salmon, just be sure to crisp the skin well during cooking to add a delicious texture. You can easily remove the skin before serving if desired, or leave it on for extra flavor.

Is there a substitute for wasabi paste?

If wasabi paste is hard to find, horseradish or a small amount of freshly grated ginger can work as alternatives, though they change the flavor profile slightly. You might want to adjust quantities to taste to keep the balance just right.

Can I make the Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing vegan?

You can! Swap the salmon for grilled tofu or tempeh and replace mayonnaise with vegan mayo in the wasabi dressing. The coconut rice and fresh veggies will keep the bowl just as colorful and satisfying.

What type of rice works best for this bowl?

Coconut rice is preferred for its subtle sweetness and aroma that pairs beautifully with the teriyaki salmon. However, jasmine or basmati rice seasoned with a bit of coconut milk can be excellent alternatives if you want to try variations.

How spicy is the wasabi dressing?

The wasabi dressing has a gentle kick that brightens the dish without overwhelming your palate. You can always adjust the amount of wasabi paste to make it milder or more pungent, depending on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Teriyaki Salmon Bowl with Wasabi Dressing will quickly become one of your go-to recipes, thanks to its balanced layers of flavor, easy preparation, and stunning presentation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s a soulful meal that feels both luxurious and approachable. So go ahead—gather those simple ingredients, dive into the process, and enjoy every flavorful bite!