Description
A Salmon Sushi Bake is a delicious, deconstructed version of traditional sushi, layered and baked like a casserole. It combines sushi rice, flaked salmon, creamy toppings like mayonnaise and cream cheese, and savory seasonings such as furikake for a flavorful, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. This innovative recipe offers the essence of sushi in a convenient, family-style format, making it ideal for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or gatherings. Its versatility allows for endless customization, catering to various dietary preferences and tastes.
Ingredients
- Sushi Rice: 2 cups, cooked and seasoned with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt.
- Fresh Salmon: 1 pound, cooked and flaked.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup, for creaminess and flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened for easy mixing.
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons, for a savory kick.
- Furikake Seasoning: 2 tablespoons, to add umami and texture.
- Sriracha: 1 tablespoon, for a hint of spice (optional).
- Optional Toppings:
- Green onions, sliced
- Avocado, sliced
- Tobiko (fish roe)
These ingredients are designed to create the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors that make this baked sushi dish a standout. Feel free to customize the toppings and seasonings to suit your taste!
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice:
- Cook 2 cups of sushi rice according to package instructions.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir this mixture into the cooked rice while it’s still warm. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Cook the Salmon:
- Bake or pan-sear 1 pound of fresh salmon until fully cooked. Let it cool, then flake it into small pieces.
- Mix the Toppings:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked salmon, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. For a spicy kick, add 1 tablespoon of sriracha (optional).
- Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Spread the seasoned sushi rice evenly at the bottom of the dish.
- Layer the salmon mixture over the rice.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of furikake seasoning over the top.
- Bake:
- Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with optional toppings like sliced green onions, avocado, or tobiko.
- Serve warm with roasted seaweed sheets or cucumber slices for scooping.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, drizzle soy sauce or spicy mayo over the top before serving.
- This dish can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.
Notes
- Seafood Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of salmon, you can substitute it with cooked tuna, crab, or shrimp.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the salmon with roasted vegetables or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Rice Variations: For a healthier option, use brown sushi rice or cauliflower rice instead of white sushi rice.
- Spice Level: Adjust the sriracha to your preferred spice level, or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results.
- Customization: Experiment with additional toppings like sesame seeds, sliced jalapeños, or pickled ginger to enhance the flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a complete sushi-inspired meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/6 of the dish)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg