If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines the comforting warmth of fried rice with the rich, flaky goodness of salmon, this Salmon Fried Rice Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen repertoire. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that marries vibrant vegetables, fragrant jasmine rice, and tender salmon into a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Perfect for quick dinners or using up leftovers, this recipe always delivers that crave-worthy balance of savory, sweet, and smoky notes that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Salmon Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity, featuring staple ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its layered flavors and inviting texture. Every element, from the bright peas and carrots to the punchy garlic and savory sauces, works together to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Vegetable oil: The perfect neutral oil for stir-frying that helps evenly cook the ingredients without overpowering flavors.
- Small onion (diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth right from the start.
- Garlic (minced): Delivers an irresistible aroma and a touch of pungency that elevates the entire dish.
- Frozen peas and carrots (thawed): Brings a pop of color and a sweet crunch, balancing the rich protein.
- Large eggs (beaten): Adds richness and texture, making the fried rice more filling.
- Cooked and chilled jasmine rice: The fluffy, slightly sticky jasmine rice is essential for that perfect fried rice texture and fragrance.
- Soy sauce: Imparts savory, umami-packed saltiness.
- Oyster sauce: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Sesame oil: A small but potent addition that introduces a nutty finish.
- Cooked salmon (flaked, skin removed): The star protein that makes this recipe uniquely hearty and healthy.
- Green onions (sliced): Provides a fresh, slightly sharp garnish that brightens every bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Salmon Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies
Start by heating one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and gently cook until softened and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let its fragrance fill your kitchen for about 30 seconds before adding the peas and carrots. Sauté this vibrant mix to tender-crisp perfection for around two minutes. This base creates a wonderful flavor foundation for your fried rice.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Push the cooked vegetables to one side of the skillet, creating some open space, and pour the beaten eggs into the empty side. Stir and scramble the eggs until they’re fully cooked through. This step adds wonderful richness and a textural contrast that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Once the eggs are fluffy and set, combine them with the vegetables.
Step 3: Fry the Rice
Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and the cold, cooked jasmine rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spatula and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t rush this step—the hot pan and oil help to dry out the rice slightly and give it that delightful slightly toasted flavor that’s essential in any great fried rice recipe.
Step 4: Season and Add Salmon
Drizzle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, stirring to ensure every grain is evenly coated with those delicious umami-rich sauces. Gently fold in the flaked salmon, being careful not to break it up too much. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes until the salmon is warmed through and the flavors have beautifully melded.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your creation and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for that burst of freshness and color that makes this Salmon Fried Rice Recipe stunning on the plate.
How to Serve Salmon Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are a classic garnish, but feel free to add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for some crunch or a drizzle of chili oil if you love a bit of heat. A wedge of lime served on the side can also bring a bright, acidic contrast that livens up every bite.
Side Dishes
This salmon fried rice pairs beautifully with simple Asian-inspired sides like steamed bok choy, crisp cucumber salad, or even a light miso soup. These fresh and mild accompaniments balance the richness of the fried rice, making your meal fully satisfying without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Salmon Fried Rice Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or small cabbage cups to add a unique touch and extra veggies. Alternatively, shape the fried rice in a small bowl, then invert it onto the plate to create an elegant dome before garnishing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover salmon fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s wise to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Salmon Fried Rice Recipe for longer, freezing is totally doable. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It should keep well for up to one month—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the fried rice gently in a skillet or wok over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra sesame oil to revive the rice’s moisture and flavor. Avoid microwaving for best texture, but if you must, stir a few times during reheating to warm it evenly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh salmon instead of cooked salmon?
Using fresh salmon is possible, but it requires additional cooking time and care not to overcook it. For a Salmon Fried Rice Recipe designed to be quick and simple, cooked salmon—whether grilled, baked, or canned—is recommended for ease and texture.
Is it necessary to use jasmine rice?
Jasmine rice provides a fragrant, light texture that works beautifully in fried rice. However, you can substitute with long-grain white rice or basmati if you prefer, just be sure to use rice that has been cooked and chilled for the best results.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
While the star here is salmon, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the salmon and adding extra veggies or tofu for protein. Keep the sauces and seasonings the same to maintain that savory umami kick.
How do I prevent my fried rice from becoming soggy?
The key is using cold, preferably day-old rice, and cooking over medium-high heat to evaporate excess moisture quickly. Avoid adding too many wet ingredients at once and stir-fry in small batches if necessary.
What can I add to spice up the Salmon Fried Rice Recipe?
A splash of chili oil, sriracha, or freshly sliced chilies can add a welcome kick. You can also toss in some grated ginger with the garlic for added warmth and complexity.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon Fried Rice Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s not only delicious but incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or transforming leftovers into a mouthwatering meal, this dish truly shines. You owe it to yourself to try it and see how this delightful combination of flavors and textures can brighten your dinner table.
Print
Salmon Fried Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
This easy and flavorful Salmon Fried Rice combines tender flaked salmon with vegetables, eggs, and fragrant jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this Asian-inspired dish uses simple ingredients and comes together on the stovetop in just 25 minutes. Leftover salmon, whether grilled, baked, or canned, works wonderfully in this recipe, making it a great way to minimize waste and maximize taste.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 2 green onions, sliced
Protein and Eggs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups cooked salmon, flaked and skin removed
Rice and Sauces
- 3 cups cooked and chilled jasmine rice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Oils and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sauté peas and carrots: Add the thawed peas and carrots to the skillet and sauté for 2 minutes to combine the flavors and soften the vegetables.
- Cook the eggs: Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked, then stir the scrambled eggs into the vegetables evenly.
- Stir-fry the rice: Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil and the cold jasmine rice to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, breaking up any clumps to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess.
- Add sauces and seasoning: Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the rice. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly and enhance the flavor.
- Incorporate the salmon: Gently fold the flaked salmon into the rice mixture to avoid breaking it up too much. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season and serve: Taste the fried rice and season with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving to add a fresh crunch.
Notes
- For best results, use chilled, day-old rice to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
- Leftover grilled, baked, or canned salmon can be used interchangeably in this recipe.
- Add a splash of chili oil or sriracha for an extra kick of heat if desired.
