Healthy & Diet-Specific Recipes

Easy Sushi Salad Bowl Recipe with Creamy Sesame Dressing

Bygivenchycanada@gmail.com December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sushi salad bowls are the ultimate mashup of freshness and flavor, combining all your favorite sushi ingredients minus the mess of rolling rice. You get that satisfying crunch and silky texture combo in every bite, plus the creamy sesame dressing ties everything together like a flavor symphony.

This dish is perfect for anyone craving sushi without the fuss or shelling out big bucks at a restaurant. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in your veggies and get your omega-3s if you opt for some fish or tofu.

Shopping List – Ingredients

• For the Bowl:
• 2 cups cooked sushi rice (or short grain rice)
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cucumber, julienned
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
• 1/4 cup pickled ginger (optional but highly recommended)
• 1 sheet nori, cut into thin strips
• 4 oz sushi-grade salmon or tofu, cubed (optional)
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• For the Creamy Sesame Dressing:
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise (Japanese mayo preferred)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp water (to thin if necessary)

How to Make It – Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Cook sushi rice according to package instructions. Once done, let it cool slightly and fluff with a fork.
2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and garlic.

   Add water a little at a time until you reach a creamy but pourable consistency.

3. Assemble the bowl: In serving bowls, layer the rice as the base. Arrange avocado, cucumber, carrots, edamame, and salmon or tofu on top in an artful pattern.
4. Add nori and pickled ginger: Sprinkle thin nori strips and add pickled ginger for that authentic flavor punch.
5. Drizzle the dressing: Generously pour or dollop the creamy sesame dressing over the bowl.
6. Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and an optional squeeze of lime if you’re feeling fancy. Eat immediately for max freshness.

How to Store

This bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but hey, life happens.

If you need to store leftovers, keep the rice and toppings in an airtight container separate from the dressing to avoid sogginess. Store dressing in a small jar or container. Combine just before eating, ideally within 24 hours.

Beyond that? Your avocado might turn brown and no one wants that brown mush situation.

Nutritional Perks

This dish nails the balance between indulgent and nutritious. You’re getting a solid dose of healthy fats from avocado and sesame oil, clean protein from salmon or tofu, and a heap of fiber and vitamins from fresh veggies.

The sesame dressing adds a kick of flavor without piling on sugar or artificial junk. Plus, the rice provides energy-zapping carbs perfect for powering through your day or workout.

Pitfalls to Watch Out For

– Don’t overdress the bowl; it’s easy to drown those fresh flavors in too much sauce. – Overcooked rice = sad sushi vibes. Be patient and let it cool properly before assembling. – Using low-quality or expired seafood is a major no-no—please don’t ghost your health. – Avocado should be ripe but firm; mushy avocado is as disappointing as a flat soda.

Alternatives

Not feeling salmon or tofu?

Swap in cooked shrimp, crab meat, or even grilled chicken for a protein punch. Want to keep it vegan? Opt for marinated tempeh or chickpeas instead.

If sushi rice isn’t your thing, try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture and a low-carb kick. For the dressing, swap mayo for vegan mayo or Greek yogurt to suit your diet.

FAQ

Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients in advance, but I’d recommend assembling the bowl and adding the dressing right before eating to avoid soggy textures and browning avocado.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free (tamari is a good alternative) and check your mayo ingredients.

How spicy is the creamy sesame dressing?

Not spicy at all—but if you like heat, add a dash of sriracha or some chili flakes.

Your call.

Can I use regular mayonnaise instead of Japanese mayo?

Yes, but Japanese mayo has a sweeter, creamier profile that really elevates this dish. Regular mayo works fine though if you’re in a pinch.

Wrapping Up

The Sushi Salad Bowl with Creamy Sesame Dressing isn’t just a meal—it’s a vibe. It’s fresh, flavorful, and answers the age-old question: “Can I have sushi without the fuss and the bill?” Whether you’re a sushi rookie or a seasoned pro, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal effort and maximum impact.

Next time hunger strikes and you wanna impress your taste buds (or guests), you know exactly what to whip up. No chopsticks required—just a fork and an appetite.