As the sun stays out longer and weekends invite relaxation, there’s nothing better than gathering friends around a table filled with delicious home-cooked food. One unbeatable combo? Salmon and rice. It’s nutritious, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile—ideal for casual get-togethers or more elevated brunches. Whether you’re planning a cozy lunch or a backyard hangout, Carolina® Rice has a variety of salmon recipes that are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive in.
Appealing Appetizers with Salmon
Salmon is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a wide variety of ways. Whether smoked, baked, or pan-seared, salmon pairs wonderfully with rice, and can be incorporated into a whole host of dishes. These recipes are perfect for setting the tone of your weekend lunch, whetting appetites for the main course to come. Likewise, these dishes also work equally well if you’re planning a light brunch with buddies.
Crowd-Pleasing Starters with Salmon
Kick things off with appetizers that are flavorful but not too fussy. These salmon starters set the tone with elegance and ease—perfect for sharing.
Jasmine Rice Spicy Salmon Avocado Tower
Elevate your appetizer game with this gourmet-style yet simple-to-make Spicy Salmon and Jasmine Rice Avocado Tower. It features layers of succulent salmon, shrimp, creamy avocado, and fluffy Carolina® Jasmine Rice. Built in just three steps, this visually stunning dish is a guaranteed conversation starter.
Pressed Sushi with Salmon
Looking for something a little unexpected? Try homemade Pressed Sushi with Salmon. This eye-catching dish is easier to make than it looks and brings a playful touch to your table that your guests will love.
Bold, Flavorful Salmon Bowls
When you want something hearty and satisfying but not too time-consuming, rice bowls are your best friend. Salmon pairs perfectly with a variety of toppings and sauces to create bold, exciting flavor profiles.
Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl
Made with Carolina® Whole Grain Brown Rice, this Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl brings together cooked salmon, creamy avocado, and a spicy hit of sriracha. It’s the kind of dish that feels gourmet but is simple enough to make on a busy weekend.
Orange Miso Poke Bowl
Poke bowls are an excellent option when you want something fresh and vibrant. This Orange Miso Poke Bowl features smoky salmon, crunchy asparagus, shredded carrots, and citrusy orange juice for a flavor-packed experience. Best of all? No heavy cooking required.
Explore a world of easy poke bowl recipes
Easygoing Mains That Feel Special
If your lunch calls for something warm and comforting, these salmon and rice mains will hit the spot. They’re big on flavor and short on prep time—just what you need for a low-key gathering.
Teriyaki Salmon with Jasmine Rice
This Easy Teriyaki Salmon with Jasmine Rice brings together tender salmon, sweet-savory teriyaki sauce, and fragrant Carolina® Ready to Heat Jasmine Rice. The rice is microwave-ready in just 90 seconds, giving you gourmet results in minutes.
Kimchi Salmon Fried Rice
Craving something a little different? This 10-minute Kimchi Salmon Fried Rice is bold, spicy, and full of texture. Crunchy seafood snacks on the side take this dish to the next level—perfect for friends who appreciate adventurous flavors.
Spicy Salmon Rice Croquettes
Round out your lunch menu with something fun and shareable. These Spicy Salmon Croquettes with Rice combine sockeye salmon, Dijon mustard, chipotles in adobo, and fluffy rice to create crispy, flavor-packed bites. They’re great as a main course or a crowd-pleasing side.
Tips for Cooking the Perfect Salmon and Rice Combo
To get the best results in your salmon and rice dishes, keep these expert tips in mind:
Choose Fresh, High-Quality Salmon
Look for bright, moist fillets with a clean scent. Whether wild-caught or responsibly farmed, freshness makes all the difference.
Prep Your Rice Like a Pro
- Rinse your rice before cooking to remove extra starch for fluffier results.
- Use a rice cooker or follow exact water ratios for consistency.
- Try adding garlic, onion, or herbs to your cooking liquid for extra flavor.
Add the Finishing Touches
Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives add color and complexity. Play with spices to match the mood—whether it’s cozy, spicy, or fresh and light.
Make Every Meal So that it #Feelslikehome
The best part of any meal? Sharing it with the people you care about. Hosting doesn’t have to be stressful—just focus on good food, great company, and the little touches that make your guests feel welcome.
Create a playlist together, set up a casual table spread, and let the recipes do the talking. With Carolina® Rice at the heart of your menu, it’s easy to make any meal feel like home.
Looking for more ways to cook with jasmine rice? Explore our recipe hub for endless inspiration.
