If you’re craving a light, flavorful, and nutrient-rich meal that feels both comforting and refreshing, look no further than the Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad. This Mediterranean-inspired dish balances rich, flaky salmon with zesty lemon, fluffy rice, and a crisp cucumber-tomato salad topped with tangy feta cheese.
It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want a wholesome bowl that delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition. With heart-healthy omega-3s, satisfying protein, and refreshing vegetables, this rice bowl has everything you need in a balanced dinner.
Why This Salmon Rice Bowl Works
The Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad isn’t just delicious—it’s designed for real life. Here’s why it’s a winning recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Nutritious & Balanced: Combines lean protein, whole grains, and fresh veggies.
- Mediterranean-Inspired: Uses bright, wholesome ingredients tied to heart health.
- Customizable: Works with quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Stores well for next-day lunches or make-ahead dinners.
This rice bowl proves that healthy eating doesn’t need to be bland or complicated—it can be vibrant, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this bowl shine:
For the Salmon & Rice
- 4 salmon fillets (about 4–6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Salad
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ small red onion, finely sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Cook your rice according to package instructions. For extra flavor, use vegetable broth or add a splash of lemon juice to the cooking water.
Step 2: Season & Cook the Salmon
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
- Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Step 3: Make the Salad
In a medium bowl, combine cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, feta, and parsley. Toss with olive oil, vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
- Start with a base of rice.
- Add salmon fillets on top.
- Spoon cucumber-tomato salad on the side.
- Finish with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil for brightness.
Nutrition Benefits
The Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad isn’t just tasty—it’s a powerhouse of nutrition:
- Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, vitamin D, and B vitamins.
- Rice: Provides energy and, if whole-grain, adds fiber for digestive health.
- Cucumber & Tomato Salad: Packed with antioxidants, hydration, and essential vitamins.
- Feta Cheese: Adds calcium, protein, and a tangy bite.
- Olive Oil & Lemon: Contribute heart-healthy fats and vitamin C.
This makes the dish an ideal choice for those looking to eat a balanced Mediterranean-style diet.
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh juice and zest brighten the salmon beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook the Salmon: Aim for a moist, flaky texture by baking just until done.
- Make it Grain-Free: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
- Upgrade the Salad: Add olives or avocado for more richness.
- Meal-Prep Hack: Cook extra salmon and rice to enjoy as bowls, wraps, or even salmon salads throughout the week.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl: Add chili flakes, harissa, or sriracha for heat.
- Greek-Inspired Bowl: Add kalamata olives and tzatziki sauce.
- Asian-Inspired Twist: Swap feta for sesame seeds and use soy-ginger dressing.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace salmon with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
Meal Prep & Storage
This dish is perfect for meal prep:
- Store cooked salmon, rice, and salad separately in airtight containers.
- Keeps well in the fridge for 3 days.
- Reheat rice and salmon gently, then add salad fresh before serving.
- Avoid freezing the salad (cucumbers and tomatoes lose texture).
Serving Ideas
Pair your Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad with:
- Warm pita bread or flatbread
- A side of hummus or tzatziki
- A crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus
Final Thoughts
The Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh, nourishing ingredients that come together in harmony. With flaky salmon, zesty lemon, fluffy rice, and a vibrant Mediterranean salad, this dish delivers everything you want in a healthy dinner: flavor, balance, and satisfaction.
If you’re looking for a quick, wholesome, and Mediterranean-inspired meal, this salmon rice bowl deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.