Honey Garlic Salmon Bowls

This honey garlic salmon meal prep bowl combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with tender salmon, fluffy jasmine rice, and vibrant broccoli. It’s a straightforward recipe designed for busy days when you want a delicious, healthy meal ready to go.

I first made this recipe when I wanted something quick yet flavorful for lunch. It quickly became a go-to because of how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying the flavors are.

Ingredients You Need

• Four salmon fillets: around 6 ounces each for perfect individual portions, choose fresh and firm fillets
• Salt and black pepper: to season and enhance the natural salmon taste
• One tablespoon olive oil: for searing the salmon without sticking
• Quarter cup honey: to create that irresistible sweet glaze, opt for raw honey if possible for added depth
• Three garlic cloves minced: bringing aromatic warmth to the sauce
• Two tablespoons soy sauce: adds umami and saltiness balanced with sweetness
• One tablespoon lemon juice: brightens the glaze with a fresh citrus note
• One teaspoon cornstarch mixed with one tablespoon water: to thicken the glaze properly
• Two cups cooked jasmine rice: with its fragrant and slightly sticky texture that pairs beautifully
• Two cups broccoli florets: steamed or roasted for a vibrant, healthy side packed with nutrients

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Honey Garlic Glaze:

In a small saucepan, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Then stir in the cornstarch water slurry and cook just until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat to stop cooking.

Season And Sear The Salmon:

Pat the salmon fillets dry and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the salmon skin side down if it has skin and sear for about three to four minutes on each side until it is just cooked through and lightly caramelized.

Glaze And Rest The Salmon:

During the last minute on the second side, brush the honey garlic glaze generously over the salmon. Remove the salmon from heat and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle and juices to redistribute.

Assemble The Bowls:

Spoon half a cup of jasmine rice into each meal prep container. Add half a cup of steamed or roasted broccoli and place one glazed salmon fillet on top. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the salmon and rice for an extra burst of flavor.

Store And Serve:

Seal the bowls in airtight containers and refrigerate. These will stay fresh for up to four days, making them ideal for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

I love how the honey garlic glaze complements the mild richness of the salmon. One time I doubled the sauce just to have extra for dipping and it was a game changer. The ease of assembly makes it a favorite for meal prep Sundays.

Smart Storage Tips

Store the salmon and sauce separately if you prefer the fish to retain its crisp edges& drizzle sauce before eating. Use airtight containers to keep broccoli fresh and prevent sogginess. Reheat gently over medium heat or in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.

Ingredient Variations

Swap jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a nuttier texture and extra fiber. Try using kale or snap peas in place of broccoli to add different textures and nutrients. Add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or sliced green onions as a garnish for an Asian-inspired touch.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

A crisp cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette brightens the meal and balances the sweetness. Chilled green tea or a sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors without overpowering. A light miso soup makes the meal more filling and adds a comforting warmth.

This honey garlic salmon is a beautiful balance of ease and elegance, making it a trusted companion for busy weeks and quiet dinners alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I get the salmon glaze thick and shiny?

Simmer the honey, garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice mixture until warm, then stir in a cornstarch water slurry. Cook gently until thickened and glossy before removing from heat.

→ Can I substitute the rice with other grains?

Yes, you can swap jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and added fiber.

→ What’s the best way to cook the broccoli for these bowls?

Steaming or roasting broccoli florets enhances their natural sweetness while keeping a tender-crisp texture that pairs well with the salmon and sauce.

→ How do I store these bowls to keep them fresh?

Place assembled bowls in airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to four days and can be reheated gently.

→ Is there a way to reduce the sodium content?

Using low-sodium soy sauce helps lower the saltiness while maintaining the glaze’s rich flavor.