There’s something magical about a meal that’s equal parts fresh, vibrant, and satisfying. These BBQ Salmon Bowls are exactly that! Picture tender, smoky salmon paired with a sweet and zesty mango avocado salsa—all served over a cozy bed of rice. It’s the perfect mix of healthy and indulgent, and I promise it’s easier to make than it looks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Sweet, smoky, tangy, and a touch of heat—this dish has it all!
- Quick and Easy: You can have this beauty on the table in under 30 minutes.
- Nutritious: Loaded with omega-3s, fresh veggies, and tropical fruit.
- Customizable: Perfect for meal prep or swapping ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need (you’ll find the full list of ingredients with exact amounts below):
- Fresh salmon fillets
- BBQ seasoning
- Ripe mangoes
- Creamy avocado
- Fresh lime juice
- Cooked rice or quinoa
Directions
Step 1: Season the Salmon
Rub your salmon fillets generously with BBQ seasoning. Let them sit for a few minutes while you prep the salsa.
Step 2: Make the Mango Avocado Salsa
Dice your mangoes and avocado into bite-sized pieces. Toss them together in a bowl with lime juice, a pinch of salt, and some chopped cilantro for that fresh pop of flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook the salmon skin-side down first for about 4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it’s perfectly flaky.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Layer your cooked rice or quinoa in a bowl, place the salmon on top, and spoon that gorgeous mango avocado salsa over everything. Add any toppings you love—like sliced jalapeños or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, ripe mangoes for the salsa—frozen won’t have the same texture.
- If you don’t have BBQ seasoning, a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar works beautifully.
- Let the salmon come to room temperature before cooking for even doneness.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Swap salmon for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein.
- Use cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
- Add diced red onion or jalapeño to the salsa for extra zing.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a light lager. You can also serve it with a side of roasted veggies or a green salad to round out the meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover salmon and salsa separately in airtight containers. The salmon will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, warm the salmon gently in a skillet or microwave. The salsa is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for a day.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have a grill?
A skillet or oven broiler works just as well!
3. Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add some chili flakes or hot sauce if you want a kick.
4. Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the salmon and make the salsa ahead. Assemble the bowls when ready to serve.
Conclusion
BBQ Salmon Bowls With Mango Avocado Salsa are a fresh and fabulous way to elevate your weeknight dinner game. It’s colorful, flavorful, and so easy to make. Give it a try—you’re going to love it as much as I do.
PrintBBQ Salmon Bowls With Mango Avocado Salsa
- Yield: 1 bowl 1x
Description
An easy and impressive dinner featuring smoky-sweet BBQ salmon topped with a zesty mango avocado salsa, served over rice.
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 1–2 lbs fresh salmon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mango Avocado Salsa:
- 2 mangoes, diced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup minced cilantro
- 1/4 cup minced red onion
- 1/2 jalapeño, minced (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- Salt, to taste
For Serving:
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Avocado Salsa:
- In a bowl, combine diced mangoes, avocado, cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño.
- Add honey, lime juice, and lime zest.
- Mix gently and season with salt to taste. Set aside.
- Cook the Rice:
- Prepare rice according to package instructions.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and kosher salt with olive oil to form a paste.
- Place salmon fillet skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Rub the spice paste evenly over the top of the salmon.
- Bake the Salmon:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 6–12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the salmon and desired doneness. For a medium-rare finish with a crispy top, you can broil on high for 6–8 minutes, ensuring the oven rack is about 6 inches from the top. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Divide cooked rice into bowls.
- Top with portions of the baked salmon.
- Spoon the mango avocado salsa over the salmon.
- Serve with lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño to control the heat level.
- This recipe serves 2–4 people, depending on the amount of salmon used.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g