Spicy Salmon with Basmati Rice Salad

This delightful recipe combines the rich flavors of salmon with the fragrant aroma of basmati rice, creating a satisfying and spicy salad. The tangy sweet chili marinade infuses each bite with zest, while the crisp carrot and refreshing lime add a light crunch. Ideal for a quick yet gourmet dinner, this dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile for any occasion. The use of Japanese rice vinegar and powdered sugar lends a unique and subtle sweetness to the rice, enhancing its fluffiness and flavor. The lightly charred salmon flakes add depth, complementing the heat of the fresh chili and the mildness of the chives. Designed to be both visually appealing and delicious, this meal is perfect for health-conscious individuals looking for a flavorful alternative. Whether you are preparing it for a casual meal or an elegant dinner, this dish promises to impress. The recipe is adaptable, making it accessible for all skill levels in the kitchen. Serve it with lime wedges for added freshness and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 salmon fillets (approximately 200 g each)
100 g basmati rice
1 large carrot
1 bunch of chives
1 fresh chili pepper (optional)

Spices and Sauces

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (for main dish and dressing)
1/2 lime
2 tablespoons Japanese rice vinegar
1 tablespoon powdered sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Marinade: Squeeze the juice of half a lime into the sweet chili sauce. Mix well to combine.
Marinate the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Allow them to marinate for a minimum of 10 minutes in the refrigerator (ideally up to 1 hour).
Cook the Rice: In a pot, add basmati rice and water in a 1:1.5 ratio. Bring to a gentle boil.
Once the water bubbles, cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This helps achieve the desired fluffiness.
Flavor the Rice: Mix powdered sugar with the Japanese rice vinegar. Pour this mixture over the cooked rice and stir gently to evenly coat the grains.
Cook the Salmon: In a pan, sear the marinated salmon over medium heat until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Once cooked, flake the salmon into bite-sized pieces.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the remaining sweet chili sauce over the flaked salmon. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Prepare Vegetables: Slice the carrot into thin julienne strips.
Finely chop the chives and, if using, the chili pepper.
Assemble the Salad: Gently fold the carrot strips, chives, and optional chili into the rice. Stir in the flaked salmon pieces.
Serve: Accompany the salad with lime wedges for an extra citrusy kick. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

Substitutions: If Japanese rice vinegar is unavailable, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as substitutes.
Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of chili pepper and sweet chili sauce based on your heat preference.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 30 g
Fats: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace salmon with tofu and use soy sauce as a marinade for a plant-based alternative.
Low-Carb: Substitute cauliflower rice for basmati rice to reduce carbohydrate intake.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with a crisp green side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
For added texture, top with roasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts.

Best Places

The Fish Market - Known for its fresh seafood and innovative dishes. Location: Pier 39, San Francisco, USA.
Sushi Samba - Offers a fusion of Japanese and South American cuisine. Location: 110 Bishopsgate, London, UK.
Basmati Bistro - Specializes in aromatic rice-based dishes. Location: 845 Burrard St, Vancouver, Canada.
Salmon & Rice - A hidden gem focusing on creative salmon dishes. Location: 123 Salmon Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Spicy Creations - Famous for its spicy seafood menu. Location: 5th Avenue West, New York, USA.
Oceanic Delights - Offers stunning sea views with its seafood menu. Location: Beach Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
Asia Meets West - A cross-cultural fusion restaurant. Location: 17 Oriental Ave, Bangkok, Thailand.
Aqua Dreams - Renowned for its modern twist on classic fish dishes. Location: Water Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
Crisp & Fresh - Focuses on fresh, healthy, and flavorful meals. Location: 303 Healthy St, Toronto, Canada.
Saffron Rice House - Brings aromatic and spicy rice combinations to life. Location: Spice Way, Delhi, India.