Colorful, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Homemade Salmon Poke Bowl brings a taste of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With sushi rice as the base and a vibrant mix of mango, avocado, edamame, and smoked salmon on top, it's a healthy and satisfying meal you can whip up in under 30 minutes. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this poke bowl is all about balance—crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, and a tangy rice base topped with sesame seeds.
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Fresh and healthy—loaded with good fats, fiber, and lean protein.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or dietary preferences.
- Naturally gluten-free and easy to make dairy-free.
- Perfect for meal prep, summer dinners, or light lunches.
- No special tools required, just basic cooking and chopping!
What Is a Poke Bowl?
Originating from Hawaii, a poke bowl (pronounced poh-keh) is a dish traditionally made with diced raw fish, rice, and fresh toppings like vegetables and seaweed. Today, it’s a globally beloved meal known for its bright flavors and healthy ingredients. This version features smoked salmon instead of raw fish, making it easier and safer to prepare at home—while still offering that signature umami-rich experience.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Poke Bowl
- Use short-grain sushi rice for the right sticky texture.
- Cool the rice before assembling to avoid wilting fresh ingredients.
- Slice ingredients uniformly for visual appeal and balanced bites.
- Add a drizzle of soy sauce or sesame oil if desired for extra flavor.
- Want it spicy? Toss the salmon in sriracha mayo or wasabi before plating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Raw Salmon Instead of Smoked?
Yes, but make sure it's sushi-grade raw salmon. Always buy from a trusted source and keep it properly refrigerated.
What Can I Use Instead of Sushi Rice?
You can substitute with jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
How Do I Make It Vegan?
Skip the salmon and add tofu, tempeh, or extra edamame. Drizzle with soy sauce or a peanut dressing for added richness.
Do I Have to Use Mango?
Not at all. Pineapple or papaya also work beautifully for a tropical twist.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice and toppings in advance. Store separately and assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh.
How to Store a Poke Bowl
If storing leftovers, place the rice and toppings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the avocado and leafy greens separate to avoid browning or wilting. For best taste, assemble fresh before eating.
How to Freeze a Poke Bowl
Freezing is not recommended, especially if using avocado, fresh vegetables, or smoked salmon. The texture and flavor can degrade significantly. However, cooked rice alone can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Ingredients
How to Make a Salmon Poke Bowl
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In a saucepan, add the sushi rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
In a saucepan, add the sushi rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed.
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Transfer cooked rice to a bowl. Add rice vinegar and stir gently. Let it cool to room temperature.
Transfer cooked rice to a bowl. Add rice vinegar and stir gently. Let it cool to room temperature.
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Thinly slice the cucumber, mango, and avocado. Set aside with the rocket and cooked edamame.
Thinly slice the cucumber, mango, and avocado. Set aside with the rocket and cooked edamame.
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Add rice to your serving bowl. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Arrange the smoked salmon, rocket, cucumber, mango, avocado, and edamame neatly on top.
Add rice to your serving bowl. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Arrange the smoked salmon, rocket, cucumber, mango, avocado, and edamame neatly on top.
Sprinkle the salmon with white sesame seeds. Drizzle with soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.
Sprinkle the salmon with white sesame seeds. Drizzle with soy sauce or sesame oil if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy!
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