Salmon and rice is a classic pairing that highlights the beautiful rich flavor of fresh salmon. However, plain rice can seem bland and underwhelming next to the salmon. The key is properly seasoning the rice to complement the fish. With a few simple techniques, you can make rice that enhances the salmon instead of competing with it.
Pick a Complementary Rice Variety
The variety of rice you select will impact the flavor and texture of your final dish Here are some top options for salmon
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Basmati Rice: Basmati has a nutty aroma and light texture that pairs nicely with salmon. The grains stay fluffy and distinct.
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Jasmine Rice: Jasmine rice has a subtly floral scent. Its soft, sticky texture provides a contrast to flaky salmon.
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Brown Rice: Nutty, chewy brown rice provides a hearty base for rich salmon. Its earthy flavor balances the fish.
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Wild Rice: Wild rice has a distinct, woodsy taste and crunchy texture. It adds intrigue alongside salmon.
Basmati, jasmine, and brown rice work well for a broad range of seasonings. Wild rice is best matched with simple seasoning to let its flavor shine.
Cook the Rice Properly
No matter which variety you choose, proper cooking is essential for seasoned rice. Undercooked grains will be crunchy, while overcooked rice turns mushy. Follow package instructions for water amounts and cook times. For fluffier rice, cook with a little extra water, then drain excess before seasoning.
If your salmon will bake for over 15 minutes, start the rice first so it’s ready when the fish is done. For quicker cooking salmon, cook the rice just before baking.
Boost Flavor with Broths and Oils
Using flavorful liquids gives rice more taste. Swap plain water for chicken or vegetable broth. Add a splash of acidic lemon or lime juice. Drizzle in oils like sesame, olive, avocado or walnut oil. Sauté minced garlic or ginger in oil before adding other liquids.
Broths and oils impart subtle depth without overpowering the salmon. Avoid heavy creams or thick sauces if serving plain grilled or baked salmon fillets.
Season Simply with Herbs and Spices
Fresh herbs brighten up rice with minimal effort. Fold in chopped parsley, dill, basil, cilantro or mint after cooking. Dried oregano, thyme or rosemary also add flavor.
Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, curry powder and cumin complement salmon’s richness. Stir in salt, pepper and red pepper flakes for extra zing.
Lemon zest or juice gives citrusy brightness. Grated ginger or wasabi powder contributes subtle heat. Go light on seasonings to let the salmon shine.
Finish with Toasted Elements
Toasted ingredients like sesame seeds, sliced almonds or coconut flakes add nice crunch and texture. Stir them in after cooking or sprinkle on top.
Other fun toppings include furikake, crispy fried onions, crushed nori sheets or microgreens. Skip heavy breadcrumbs or gravies that distract from the salmon.
Bake Salmon and Rice Together
For easy weeknight meals, bake salmon directly on a bed of prepared rice. Brush salmon with oil and season as desired. Bake at 400°F until cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
The rice soaks up salmon juices as it bakes, creating extra flavor. Mix in herbs and spices after baking. Serve the salmon atop the seasoned rice.
Sample Recipe Combinations
Here are some inspired rice seasoning mixes to try with salmon:
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Lemon garlic rice: Sauté minced garlic and lemon zest in olive oil before adding chicken broth and rice. Finish with lemon juice.
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Curry coconut rice: Use coconut milk instead of water. Season with curry powder, salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
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Sesame ginger rice: Sauté ginger and garlic in sesame oil, then add broth and rice. Top with sesame seeds.
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Herb risotto: Sauté shallots in butter. Add arborio rice and white wine. Finish with parsley, dill and parmesan.
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Cilantro lime rice: Add cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, cumin and salt to cooked rice. Works with brown or cauliflower rice too.
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Coconut turmeric rice: Stir in coconut milk, turmeric, salt and pepper. Top with toasted coconut.
Helpful Tips for Rice and Salmon
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For added flavor, use homemade or low-sodium broth instead of water.
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Undercook rice slightly, then let residual steam finish cooking it covered for 5 minutes.
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Mix in butter or oil after cooking for extra moistness and sheen.
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For quicker cooking, use precooked microwaveable rice bags or pouches.
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Bake salmon in foil pouches with rice and seasoning for easy full meals.
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Add rice and salmon leftovers to salads, rice bowls or tacos the next day.
With the right techniques and seasonings, rice can be so much more than a bland salmon sidekick. A well-seasoned bed of rice makes the perfect platform to highlight fresh, flavorful salmon. Experiment with different grain varieties, herbs, spices and toppings to find your favorite pairing.
FAQ
What seasoning goes well with salmon and rice?
You can use your favorite seasoning blend or any combination of fresh herbs and spices. I like using lemon pepper, cajun seasoning, and even Old Bay when I make this dish.
What seasoning should I put on rice?
- 1. Salt and Pepper A simple sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper can enhance the natural flavor of the rice.
- 2. Butter or Olive Oil Adding a pat of butter or a drizzle of olive oil can give the rice a rich, comforting taste.
- 3. Soy Sauce
- 4. Garlic Powder or Fresh Garlic
What seasoning is good for salmon?
Salmon is a versatile fish that pairs well with a wide range of seasonings. Common choices include salt, pepper, garlic, and lemon juice, but other spices like dill, smoked paprika, and ginger also enhance its flavor.
Is rice a good side with salmon?
The quintessential salmon dinner probably includes asparagus and rice when you picture it. That’s because salmon’s mild flavor pairs well with the buttery crunch of asparagus and lightly seasoned rice.