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mediterranean salmon bowl

Quick Mediterranean Salmon Bowl

Delicious Quick Mediterranean Salmon Bowl recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 1550 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the salmon:

  • 1.1 lb salmon fillets (skin-on preferred for crispy edges)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 2/3 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds deeper flavor)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh squeezed)

For the rice:

  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup white rice (jasmine or basmati work well)
  • 2 cups water

For the salad:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 2 medium tomatoes (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 Lebanese cucumber (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
  • salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh squeezed)
  • 1/4 red onion (thinly sliced)

For the yogurt sauce:

  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for creamier sauce)
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill

For toppings:

  • fresh parsley for garnish
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta (optional but recommended for authentic flavor)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add it to a pot with 2 cups of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, cover, and reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes. While the rice cooks, dice the red bell pepper, tomatoes, and cucumber into 1/2-inch pieces, thinly slice the red onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything prepped before you start cooking the salmon ensures a smooth assembly at the end.
  • Cut the salmon fillets into 1-inch cubes and place them in a bowl. Add the paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, honey, 2/3 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix gently to coat all pieces evenly, then let sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the fish. This marinating time is crucial for developing flavor depth without requiring long cooking times.
  • In one bowl, combine the diced red pepper, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper to taste. Toss gently and set aside. In another bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt with the minced garlic, fresh dill, fresh parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until smooth and creamy. I find that letting the yogurt sauce sit for a few minutes helps the garlic and herbs fully infuse into the yogurt, creating a more cohesive flavor.
  • Preheat your broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Arrange the marinated salmon cubes from Step 2 in a single layer on the prepared sheet, spacing them about an inch apart so they cook evenly. Broil for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and the edges are slightly caramelized. The high heat creates crispy, golden edges while keeping the inside tender and flaky.
  • When the rice finishes cooking (about 15 minutes from Step 1), fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains. Divide the fluffy rice evenly among serving bowls, then top each bowl with a portion of the cucumber-tomato salad from Step 3. Arrange the broiled salmon cubes over the salad, drizzle generously with the yogurt sauce, and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Finish with a garnish of fresh parsley, and serve immediately while the salmon is still warm.