SALMON SUSHI BAKE SAVORY SPICY HEAVEN

The way the creamy, spicy mayo cascades over the perfectly seasoned salmon and fluffy rice is nothing short of culinary magic. It’s a textural symphony, a flavor explosion, and a visual masterpiece all rolled into one delightful bake.

This Salmon Sushi Bake is your express ticket to sushi satisfaction without the fuss of rolling. Imagine layers of umami-rich goodness, from the seasoned sushi rice to the savory salmon topping, all baked to golden perfection and ready to be devoured in minutes. Get ready for your new favorite weeknight dinner!

The Essential Components

Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor in your Salmon Sushi Bake. Fresh salmon, good quality mayonnaise, and authentic sushi rice will elevate the dish to a whole new level. Don’t skimp on the details!

• Sushi Rice (short-grain rice is essential for the right texture)
• Water
• Rice Vinegar (adds the signature tangy flavor)
• Sugar (balances the acidity of the vinegar)
• Salt (enhances all the flavors)
• Salmon Fillet (fresh, skinless, and boneless for easy preparation)
• Soy Sauce (low sodium is preferred to control saltiness)
• Sesame Oil (adds a nutty aroma and flavor)
• Mayonnaise (Japanese mayo, like Kewpie, is ideal for its richness)
• Sriracha (for a spicy kick)
• Green Onions (fresh and vibrant garnish)
• Sesame Seeds (adds texture and visual appeal)
• Avocado (optional, for added creaminess and healthy fats)

Swaps & Alternatives

• If you don’t have sushi rice, you can use another short-grain rice, but the texture will be slightly different.
• For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether.
• If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
• For a vegan option, substitute the salmon with marinated tofu or mushrooms.
• If you are looking for a healthier option, try using cauliflower rice as a base.

Chef’s Twists

Ready to take your Salmon Sushi Bake to the next level? Here are a few gourmet variations to try:

• Smoked Salmon: Replace the fresh salmon with smoked salmon for a smoky and intense flavor.
• Spicy Tuna: Substitute the salmon with spicy tuna for a different take on the classic sushi bake.
• Avocado Cream: Blend avocado with a little lime juice and salt to create a creamy and refreshing topping.
• Eel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle eel sauce (unagi sauce) over the bake for a sweet and savory finish.

Let’s Get Cooking

This Salmon Sushi Bake is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. The steps are straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. From prepping the rice to baking the salmon, each step is designed to maximize flavor and minimize effort. It will take approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

1. Cook the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky. Then, cook the rice according to package directions or in a rice cooker.

2. Season the Rice

While the rice is still warm, gently mix in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. This is what gives sushi rice its signature tangy flavor. Be careful not to mash the rice; you want to keep the grains intact.

3. Prepare the Salmon

Cut the salmon fillet into small cubes. In a bowl, combine the salmon with soy sauce and sesame oil. This marinade adds depth of flavor and helps keep the salmon moist during baking. You might also enjoy these Honey Garlic Salmon Bites.

4. Make the Spicy Mayo

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Sriracha. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your desired level of spiciness. This creamy and spicy topping is what brings the whole dish together.

5. Assemble the Bake

Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly in a baking dish. Top with the marinated salmon. Then, drizzle the spicy mayo over the salmon.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven until the salmon is cooked through and the topping is golden brown. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent the topping from burning.

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. If desired, add slices of avocado for extra creaminess. Serve immediately and enjoy! You can also find inspiration in other salmon recipes like Baked Dijon Salmon or Parmesan Salmon Bake.

Perfect Pairings

This Salmon Sushi Bake is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:

• Seaweed Salad: The salty and refreshing seaweed salad complements the richness of the salmon bake.
• Edamame: Steamed edamame is a healthy and satisfying side dish.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds a comforting element to the meal.
• Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad provides a nice contrast to the creamy bake.
• Avocado Slices: Extra avocado slices can be added on top for even more creaminess.

You might also enjoy a Seafood Pasta Salad as a side. If you want to try another seafood dish, consider Louisiana Seafood Gumbo. For a spicier option, try Honey Sriracha Salmon Bowls.

Know someone who loves Salmon Sushi Bake? Share this recipe with them!

Salmon Sushi Bake Savory Spicy Heaven

Amelia Chen-Morrison

This Salmon Sushi Bake offers all the satisfaction of sushi without the rolling. Layers of seasoned sushi rice and savory salmon, topped with creamy spicy mayo, are baked to golden perfection. It’s a textural symphony and flavor explosion perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Japanese-inspired

Servings 6

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Mixing Bowls
• Rice cooker or saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups sushi rice
• 2 cups water
• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound salmon fillet, skinless and boneless
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• ½ cup Japanese mayonnaise Kewpie
• 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 1 avocado, sliced optional

Instructions

 

• Rinse the sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
• Cook the rice according to package directions or in a rice cooker.
• While the rice is still warm, gently mix in the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
• Cut the salmon fillet into small cubes.
• In a bowl, combine the salmon with soy sauce and sesame oil.
• In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Sriracha. Adjust the amount of Sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
• Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly in a baking dish.
• Top with the marinated salmon.
• Drizzle the spicy mayo over the salmon.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until the salmon is cooked through and the topping is golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
• Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. If desired, add slices of avocado.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of Sriracha or omit it altogether. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar in a pinch. For a vegan option, substitute the salmon with marinated tofu or mushrooms. Overcooked salmon will be dry and tough, so be sure to check for doneness regularly. Using long-grain rice will result in a mushy and less flavorful bake. Stick to sushi rice for the best results. The rice vinegar mixture is crucial for the signature sushi flavor. Don’t skip this step! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.