Flaky oven-baked salmon fillets served over a bed of steamed jasmine rice and finished with a rich, spicy garlic butter sauce. This dish offers a quick, flavorful dinner with Asian-inspired undertones, ideal for busy weeknights or nutritious meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked salmon and rice bowl is the epitome of balanced simplicity. It combines lean protein, comforting rice, and a bold, spicy sauce that takes minimal effort to prepare. The garlic butter glaze adds a luxurious finish while still keeping the dish light and wholesome. With minimal prep and versatile ingredients, it’s a dependable favorite for home cooks of all levels.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon:

salmon fillets
olive oil
salt and black pepper
garlic powder
paprika
dried parsley or furikake (optional)

For the rice:

jasmine or sushi rice
water
salt

For the spicy garlic butter sauce:

unsalted butter
garlic clove, minced
sriracha or hot sauce of choice
soy sauce
honey or sugar (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the salmon fillets on it.
Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle with dried parsley or furikake if using.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Rinse the rice thoroughly in cold water. Combine with water and a pinch of salt in a pot.
Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in sriracha, soy sauce, and honey. Simmer for 1 minute and remove from heat.
To serve, divide the steamed rice between bowls, top with salmon slices, and drizzle generously with the spicy garlic butter sauce. Garnish as desired.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Calories per serving: 420 kcal

Variations

Low-Carb Version: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed greens.
Extra Vegetables: Add steamed broccoli, edamame, or shredded carrots for a more complete bowl.
Different Protein: Use chicken breast or tofu in place of salmon.
Milder Sauce: Reduce the sriracha or omit it for a gentler flavor.
Grilled Option: Grill the salmon instead of baking for a smoky twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist. The sauce can be stored separately and reheated briefly before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

What rice works best for this dish?

Jasmine or sushi rice are recommended for their soft, sticky texture that pairs well with the sauce.

Is the sauce very spicy?

It has a moderate heat. You can adjust the level by using less sriracha or opting for a milder hot sauce.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use olive oil for the sauce.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely. It reheats well and can be packed into containers for easy lunches.

What vegetables pair well with this meal?

Steamed greens, bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado slices complement the flavors nicely.

Can I pan-sear the salmon instead?

Yes, sear in a hot skillet for 3–4 minutes per side until cooked through.

How do I keep the salmon moist?

Avoid overbaking and monitor closely toward the end of the cook time.

What is furikake?

Furikake is a Japanese seasoning blend that includes seaweed, sesame seeds, and dried fish or vegetables, used to enhance flavor.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, doubling the sauce works well if you prefer a more generous drizzle or are serving more portions.

Conclusion

Baked Salmon with Spicy Garlic Butter Sauce delivers a nourishing and flavorful meal in just 30 minutes. With minimal ingredients and a bold, tangy sauce, this dish satisfies both weeknight convenience and culinary indulgence. Versatile and easy to customize, it’s a go-to recipe for salmon lovers and busy home cooks alike.