This easy one-pot salmon and rice dish is perfect for busy nights! You cook everything together, so there’s less mess and more delicious flavor in every bite.
Plus, who doesn’t love a meal that practically cleans itself? I love how the rice absorbs all the yummy salmon juices, making it super tasty. Simple and satisfying! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: Long grain rice like basmati or jasmine is perfect for this dish. If you don’t have them, you can use medium or short-grain rice. Just adjust the water amount as needed.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and flavor. If you want a different taste, avocado oil or butter works well, too.
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets provide a great taste. You can use frozen fillets, just thaw them first. If you’re not a fan of salmon, try chicken breasts or firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine. Add a bit of chili powder for an extra kick!
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Salmon on Rice?
The key to cooking salmon perfectly on rice is timing and heat control. Start by getting the rice cooking first. Here’s how:
- Sauté your veggies to bring out their flavor.
- Once the rice and broth combination is boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- After 10 minutes, gently place the seasoned salmon on top of the rice.
- Cover and cook for another 8-10 minutes. This steams the salmon while the rice finishes cooking.
Make sure to let it rest off the heat covered for 5 minutes; this helps the flavors meld nicely! Enjoy your meal! 😊
How to Make Easy One-Pot Salmon and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 cups long grain rice (e.g., basmati or jasmine)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric (for color)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin removed
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Sauté them together for about 4-5 minutes until they’re softened and they smell amazing!
2. Add the Flavors:
Now, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook everything together for about 1 minute until fragrant. This is where the dish gets its wonderful flavor!
3. Incorporate the Rice:
Add the rice to the pot and stir it well to coat it with the spices and oil. It makes it so yummy!
4. Cook the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Prepare the Salmon:
While the rice cooks, pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if you wish.
6. Add the Salmon:
Carefully arrange the seasoned salmon fillets on top of the rice. Cover it again and let everything cook for another 8-10 minutes. The salmon should be just cooked through and the rice tender.
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pot from heat and let it rest while covered for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges if you like a bit of zest! Enjoy your flavorful, no-fuss, one-pot salmon and rice meal!
FAQ for Easy One-Pot Salmon and Rice
Can I Use Other Types of Rice?
Yes! While basmati and jasmine rice are great choices, you can also use long grain white or brown rice. Just remember that brown rice may need more cooking time and additional liquid, so adjust accordingly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry.
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can swap salmon for chicken breasts, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed; chicken may take longer than salmon to cook through.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. Lemon wedges are a great touch for squeezing over the top when serving!
