As the weather improves and the days get longer, there’s simply no better plan you can make at the weekend than to invite your friends over for a tasty home-cooked meal. Salmon and rice make a perfect combination for weekend lunches. These dishes are flavorful, nutritious, and easy to prepare. They are also great for sharing with friends. That’s why Mahatma® Rice is here to inspire you with scintillating salmon dishes. Each recipe offers a unique twist that can elevate any lunch gathering. From light brunch options to gourmet mains, we’ve got you covered. 

Appealing Appetizers with Salmon

Salmon is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a wide variety of ways. Whether smoked, baked, or pan-seared, salmon pairs wonderfully with rice, and can be incorporated into a whole host of dishes. These recipes are perfect for setting the tone of your weekend lunch, whetting appetites for the main course to come. Likewise, these dishes also work equally well if you’re planning a light brunch with buddies. 

Eye-catching Appetizers

Torres de arroz, salmón picante, aguacate y lechuga
Tuna Avocado Tower

Appetizers are not merely dishes prepared to whet the appetite, they also serve as tone-setters, letting guests know what they can expect from the meal to come. If you’re hosting a weekend lunch with your best pals, you may not want to go over the top with elaborate appetizers as it may not fit the tone of the occasion. Instead, subtlety is the name of the game. A simple, yet appealing appetizer is a must and that’s where this unique yet easy-to-prepare Jasmine Rice Spicy Salmon Avocado Tower comes in. Layered to perfection with salmon, shrimp, Mahatma® Jasmine Rice, and avocado chunks, you can make this gourmet appetizer in just three simple steps. 

Equally simple and appealing is this delightful homemade Pressed Sushi with Salmon. Imagine the surprise your friends will get when they arrive and see this enticing sushi dish awaiting them. 

Rice and Poke Bowls Featuring Salmon

Weekends are all about maximizing the time you spend with your friends, that’s why it’s important to choose meals that are flavorful and satisfying yet economical with time. One way to find a balance is to prepare rice or poke bowls. These unique dishes are just a matter of gathering ingredients and allowing the flavors to speak for themselves. Here are two options for you to consider, each featuring bold flavors to pair with salmon. 

Adding Spice to Rice Bowls

spicy salmon and brown rice bowl with avocado
Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl

This Spicy Salmon Rice Bowl is made with Mahatma® Wholegrain Brown Rice, which makes it a hearty and satisfying lunch, perfect for sustaining you and your pals for whatever plans you’ve made for the rest of the day. The genius of this dish is its pairing of cooked salmon with avocado and sriracha hot sauce. Don’t be surprised if your friends ask you to share the recipe with them. 

Lunchtime Poke Bowl

Similar to rice bowls, poke bowl recipes offer an easy meal fix for hosting. They’re easy to prepare and easy to adapt. This Orange Miso Poke Bowl is brimming with bold flavors and pleasing textures. Crunchy asparagus, smoky salmon, shredded carrots, and zesty orange juice combine to bring you an exquisite poke bowl recipe that’s nutritious and delicious in equal measure. 

CTA: Explore a world of easy poke bowl recipes

No-Stress Easy Mains with Salmon and Rice

If you’re in the mood for cooking something warm and pleasing, these salmon dishes are sure to go down a treat. First up, how about trying this Teriyaki Salmon with Jasmine Rice? Tart and tangy teriyaki combines with fragrant jasmine rice and tender salmon fillets to bring you a satisfying restaurant-standard dish in just 15 minutes. The secret to this quick and easy dish is Mahatma® Ready to Heat Jasmine Rice. Ready in 90 seconds, it gives you all the fragrance of authentic jasmine rice in no time. 

Equally easy and crowd-pleasing is this Kimchi Salmon Fried Rice. Ready in 10 minutes, this is given extra crunch by the delightful inclusion of seafood snacks on the side. Subtly creative, this dish will please the foodies among your friends. 

Finally, for a fun and feisty dish, try these Spicy Salmon Rice Croquettes. Blending sockeye salmon, Dijon mustard, eggs, breadcrumbs, and chipotles in adobo sauce, it’s a flavor-forward recipe that is guaranteed to satisfy. 

Kitchen Tips and Techniques for Cooking Salmon

Achieving the best flavor and texture in salmon and rice dishes requires a few essential kitchen techniques. Proper preparation can enhance the dining experience greatly. Start by selecting high-quality salmon, as freshness greatly impacts taste. Look for vibrant, moist fillets without a strong fishy smell.

When cooking rice, rinsing it under cold water is crucial. This step removes excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming gummy. Experiment with different rice varieties, such as jasmine or basmati, which can add unique flavors to the meal.

  • Utilize a rice cooker for consistent results.
  • Ensure to follow the correct rice-to-water ratio for the perfect texture.
  • Consider adding aromatics like garlic or onions to the cooking water for deeper flavor.

Experimenting with different herbs and spices can elevate dishes to new heights. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, and chives not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant touch to the presentation.

Make Your Friends Feel at Home

Nothing beats gathering with friends for some delicious homecooked food. Your home is the perfect setting for catching up in a relaxed and welcoming environment, that’s why it’s important to embrace the occasion. Create a shared playlist and allow friends to curate the soundtrack to your gathering. This will make your gathering extra special. After all, home is where the heart is, and good food always #feelslikehome. 

For more recipes and cooking tips, drop by our blog to see what we’ve been cooking

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