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Do you love sushi but want something even easier to make? The Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake is your answer! Packed with flavor and simple to prepare, this dish will impress your friends and family. With fresh salmon, creamy mayonnaise, and a kick from sriracha, it’s a guaranteed hit. Let’s dive into this easy and flavorful recipe that will make your taste buds dance!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: This spicy salmon sushi bake combines the creamy texture of avocado and mayonnaise with the kick of sriracha, creating a mouthwatering dish.
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the sushi-making process, allowing you to enjoy a sushi-inspired meal without the need for rolling and shaping individual pieces.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily modify the toppings and spice levels to suit your taste preferences, making this dish versatile for everyone.
- Perfect for Sharing: This bake is great for gatherings or family dinners, as it can be served warm and shared among multiple people.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– 2 cups sushi rice
– 2 ½ cups water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces fresh salmon, skinless and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
– 1 cucumber, julienned
– 2 green onions, finely sliced
– 1 sheet nori, cut into small squares
– Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Measurements and Substitutions
You can swap fresh salmon for canned salmon or tuna. This works well if you are short on time. For a lighter touch, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds creaminess without too much fat. When it comes to rice, short-grain rice is best for sushi. If you can’t find it, try medium-grain rice as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Sushi Rice
First, rinse the sushi rice. Place it in a bowl and run cold water over it. Keep rinsing until the water runs clear. This step removes extra starch. It helps the rice cook well.
Next, cook the rice. In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed rice and water. Bring it to a boil on medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer for about 18 minutes. The water should be fully absorbed, and the rice should be tender.
After cooking, take the pan off the heat. Keep it covered for ten more minutes. This steaming step makes the rice fluffy. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Whisk until dissolved. Fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the vinegar mix. Set the rice aside to cool.
Making the Spicy Salmon Mixture
Now, let’s make the spicy salmon mixture. Take a mixing bowl and add chopped salmon. Then, pour in the sriracha sauce and mayonnaise. Stir it well until everything blends smoothly. This mix gives your sushi bake its kick!
Assembling and Baking
Time to assemble! Grab a baking dish and spread an even layer of the cooled sushi rice on the bottom. Press it down gently to form a base. Next, spread the spicy salmon mixture evenly over the rice. Make sure all the rice gets covered.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes. The salmon should turn opaque and be fully cooked.
Once baked, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish the dish with sliced avocado, julienned cucumber, and chopped green onions. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for a nice finish. Enjoy your spicy salmon sushi bake warm!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Sushi Bake
To make a great sushi bake, focus on the rice. Start with rinsing the sushi rice. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes extra starch and helps the rice cook well. After rinsing, boil it in water. The rice should be sticky yet fluffy when cooked.
Next, let’s talk about the salmon. Use fresh salmon for the best flavor. Make sure to chop it finely. This helps it cook evenly. When you mix the salmon with sriracha and mayonnaise, combine them well. This mix gives the dish a creamy texture and a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation matters. Use a nice baking dish to show off your sushi bake. After baking, add toppings like avocado, cucumber, and green onions. These give color and crunch. Serve nori squares on the side. You can wrap bites in the nori or crumble it on top for added flavor.
Pair your sushi bake with pickled ginger and soy sauce. These sides enhance the taste. They balance the spiciness of the dish and add layers of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overcooking the salmon. Keep an eye on it while it bakes. Salmon should be opaque but still moist. Check it around the 15-minute mark.
Another mistake is skipping the rice rinsing. This step is key for perfect rice. Not rinsing can lead to mushy or sticky rice, which won’t hold up well in the bake. Take the time to rinse; your sushi bake will thank you!
Pro Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Rinse your sushi rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps achieve a perfect sticky texture that holds together well.
- Fresh Salmon Selection: Choose high-quality, sushi-grade salmon for the best flavor and safety. Always check for freshness and odor before purchasing.
- Spice Level Control: Adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and gradually increase.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side for an authentic sushi experience that enhances the flavors.

Variations
Alternative Flavor Combinations
You can change the spice level to fit your taste. Try using less sriracha for a mild flavor. If you want more heat, add chili paste or fresh jalapeños. You can also switch up the seafood. Shrimp and crab work great in this recipe. Just chop them finely and mix them with the sauces.
Vegetarian Options
If you prefer plant-based meals, you have options. Use cooked tofu or tempeh instead of salmon. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or carrots. For a veggie sushi bake, layer your rice with these ingredients. Top it off with avocado and cucumber for a fresh taste.
Sushi Bake Toppings
Toppings can take your sushi bake to the next level. Try sprinkling furikake on top for extra umami flavor. You can also add chili flakes for a spicy kick. Other great options include sliced radishes or sesame seeds. These toppings add crunch and flavor to your dish.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your spicy salmon sushi bake fresh, refrigerate it right away. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed tight to prevent air from getting in. This will help keep the flavors intact. The sushi bake lasts about 2 to 3 days in the fridge. After that, it might not taste as good.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating is easy. You can use an oven or a microwave. If using an oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to avoid drying it out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
For the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Add a small splash of water to keep it moist. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor. Enjoy your meal just like the first time!
FAQs
Can I freeze Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake?
Yes, you can freeze Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake. To freeze, let it cool first. Cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, take it out. Thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
What can I use instead of sushi rice?
If you don’t have sushi rice, you can use short-grain rice or jasmine rice. Both types can work well in this recipe. They hold moisture and shape nicely. Quinoa is another option, though it changes the texture. Just adjust the cooking method accordingly for these alternatives.
How to adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, you can add more or less sriracha. Start with a small amount and taste as you mix. If you want less heat, reduce the sriracha. You can also add more mayonnaise for creaminess. For extra heat, mix in chili flakes or hot sauce when serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free if you choose the right ingredients. The sushi rice and fresh salmon are gluten-free. However, ensure the sriracha and mayonnaise are gluten-free too. Some brands add gluten. Always check the labels before using them.
In this article, we covered how to make a Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake, from key ingredients to step-by-step instructions. We explored tips for perfect texture, common mistakes to avoid, and delicious variations. Remember, adjusting the spice level and using substitutes can make this dish work for everyone. Enjoy experimenting with toppings and serving suggestions to make it your own. Your sushi bake journey is just beginning, and I hope you feel inspired to create a dish your whole family will lov
Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake
A delicious and easy-to-make sushi bake featuring spicy salmon, avocado, and cucumber.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal
- 2 cups sushi rice
- 2.5 cups water
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces fresh salmon, skinless and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 ripe avocado, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber julienned
- 2 green onions finely sliced
- 1 sheet nori, cut into small squares
- to taste toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Rinse the sushi rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water appears clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed sushi rice and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and allow the rice to simmer for approximately 18 minutes, or until the water has been completely absorbed and the rice is tender.
After cooking, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered for an additional 10 minutes to allow the rice to steam. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until fully dissolved. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, and then carefully fold in the vinegar mixture. Set the seasoned rice aside to cool slightly.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chopped salmon with sriracha sauce and mayonnaise, stirring until the mixture is thoroughly blended.
Take a baking dish and spread an even layer of the cooled sushi rice across the bottom, pressing it down gently to form a base.
Evenly distribute the spicy salmon mixture on top of the rice, ensuring complete coverage.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the salmon is opaque and cooked through.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes.
Garnish the baked sushi with the sliced avocado, julienned cucumber, finely chopped green onions, and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
Serve the spicy sushi bake warm, accompanied by nori squares on the side for optional wrapping or crumbling on top for an authentic experience.
Serve warm with nori squares for wrapping or crumbling.
Keyword bake, salmon, spicy, sushi
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