10 Best Sauces for Salmon Bowls (Easy Salmon Bowl Sauces)

Salmon bowls have quickly become a popular and nutritious meal option for those seeking a healthy and flavorful dish.

One of the key elements that elevates a salmon bowl is the sauce.

Whether you prefer a tangy and zesty flavor or something more creamy and indulgent, the right sauce can take your salmon bowl to new levels of deliciousness.

In this article, we have rounded up the 10 best salmon bowl sauces that are not only easy to make but also guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. From classic teriyaki to spicy sriracha mayo, we’ve got you covered with a range of options to suit your preferences.

10 Best Salmon Bowl Sauce Recipes

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these sauces will add a burst of flavor to your salmon bowl creations. Let’s dive into the world of salmon bowl sauces and start exploring the possibilities!

1. Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a traditional Japanese sauce that adds a savory-sweet flavor to salmon bowls. It is made with soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), sugar, and ginger.

To make it, combine equal parts soy sauce and mirin, add sugar to taste, and grated ginger. Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly. Drizzle teriyaki sauce over cooked salmon and rice for a delicious and simple salmon bowl.

2. Soy Sauce

Soy sauce is a staple in Asian cuisine and adds an umami flavor to salmon bowls. It is made from fermented soybeans, wheat, salt, and water.

You can use it as a simple marinade for the salmon or as a base sauce for the bowl. Combine soy sauce with ingredients like garlic, ginger, and honey for more flavor variations.

3. Ponzu Sauce

Ponzu sauce is a tangy citrus-based sauce that pairs well with salmon. It is made with a combination of soy sauce and citrus juices such as lemon or lime, along with rice vinegar.

The citrusy acidity of ponzu sauce adds a refreshing touch to the salmon bowl. Drizzle it over the salmon or use it as a dressing for the entire bowl.

4. Yuzu Mayo

Yuzu mayo is a creamy and tangy sauce made by combining mayonnaise and yuzu juice. Yuzu is a Japanese citrus fruit that has a unique flavor, combining lemon, lime, and grapefruit.

The combination of the creamy mayo and the citrusy yuzu juice creates a delicious and tangy sauce that complements the richness of salmon.

5. Wasabi Mayo

Wasabi mayo is a zesty and spicy sauce made by combining mayonnaise and wasabi paste. Wasabi is a Japanese horseradish known for its heat and distinct flavor.

The creamy mayo helps mellow down the spiciness of the wasabi, creating a well-balanced and flavorful sauce. Drizzle it over the salmon or use it as a dipping sauce.

6. Ginger Sesame Sauce

Ginger sesame sauce is a versatile sauce that adds a robust and nutty flavor to salmon bowls. It is made with sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and honey. The combination of these ingredients creates a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce that pairs beautifully with salmon. Drizzle it over the bowl for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Citrus Soy Sauce

Citrus soy sauce combines the umami flavor of soy sauce with the bright, tangy taste of citrus. It is made by combining soy sauce with citrus juices like orange, grapefruit, or lemon. The citrus juices help balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and add a refreshing element to the sauce. Use it as a marinade for the salmon or as a dressing for the bowl.

8. Honey Mustard Sauce

Honey mustard sauce is a classic sauce that complements the richness of salmon. It is made by combining honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. The combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a delicious balance that enhances the taste of the salmon. Drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the bowl for a touch of sweetness.

9. Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce

Lemon garlic butter sauce is a rich and decadent sauce that pairs well with salmon. It is made by melting butter and adding minced garlic and lemon juice. The buttery richness combined with the tangy lemon and garlicky flavors creates a luxurious sauce that elevates the salmon and the bowl. Drizzle it over the cooked salmon and rice.

10. Creamy Dill Sauce

Creamy dill sauce is a refreshing and creamy sauce that adds a burst of flavor to salmon bowls. It is made with a base of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, chopped fresh dill, lemon juice, and a touch of garlic. The creamy texture combined with the herby freshness of dill creates a delightful sauce that enhances the flavors of the salmon. Drizzle it over the bowl or use it as a dip for the salmon.

FAQs

What goes with salmon?

Salmon is a versatile fish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, a fresh salad, steamed or roasted potatoes, quinoa, rice, couscous, or even pasta. It also pairs well with citrus flavors like lemon or orange, as well as herbs like dill or basil.

What can I serve with teriyaki salmon?

Teriyaki salmon goes well with a range of side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Some great options include steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or bok choy, fried rice, sesame noodles, roasted sweet potatoes, or a side of sautéed mushrooms. The key is to choose something that balances the richness of the teriyaki sauce.

How many calories in a salmon bowl?

The number of calories in a salmon bowl can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, as a general guideline, a typical salmon bowl with a 4-ounce portion of salmon, a serving of rice, and assorted vegetables can range from 400-600 calories. It is always advisable to check the nutritional information for the specific ingredients you are using to get an accurate estimate.

Can you pan fry salmon?

Yes, you can pan fry salmon. To do so, heat some oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil, in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper, and then place them skin-side down in the hot pan. Cook for around 3-4 minutes until the skin becomes crispy. Carefully flip the salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until it is cooked through to your desired level of doneness. Pan-frying is a popular cooking method for salmon as it develops a nice sear on the outside while keeping the flesh moist and tender.