Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls

Name: Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 carrot, julienned; Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish; Sesame seeds for topping

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipes

I absolutely love the combination of flavors in these Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls. The succulent salmon, paired with a creamy peanut sauce, creates a delicious harmony that's hard to resist. Each bite brings a burst of savory goodness, complemented by the freshness of crispy lettuce. I often whip this up for quick weeknight dinners or light lunches, and it never fails to impress. It’s a vibrant choice that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:06:27.554Z

When I first tried making these Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare. The key to this dish is the homemade peanut sauce, which elevates the salmon to new heights. I prefer to marinate the salmon for at least 15 minutes to let those rich flavors settle in. Using fresh lettuce as a wrap not only adds crunch but also keeps the dish light and healthy.

One specific tip I've found is to sear the salmon skin-side down first. This technique not only crisps up the skin but also helps lock in moisture for flaky, tender salmon. Topped with fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables, these bowls are not only satisfying but also incredibly vibrant, making them perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory peanut sauce that complements the salmon perfectly
Light and refreshing, perfect for warm weather
Quick to prep and cook, making it a weeknight favorite

The Role of Marinades

Marinating the salmon in this peanut soy mixture not only infuses the fish with flavor but also helps to keep it moist during cooking. The soy sauce provides a salty umami base, while the honey adds just the right touch of sweetness to balance the richness of the salmon. Allow your salmon to marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes; however, if you have more time, up to 30 minutes deepens the flavor even further without compromising texture.

Ensure the marinade fully coats the salmon fillets for optimal flavor absorption. If you're low on time, you can simply brush some marinade on just before cooking, but for the best results, let the fish soak in the mix so it can mellow with the garlic and ginger notes.

Perfecting Cooking Technique

Cooking the salmon in a non-stick skillet is essential to prevent sticking and allow for that perfect sear. Ensure your skillet is preheated to medium-high heat before adding the fish. You should hear a satisfying sizzle when you place the salmon skin-side down—this sound means a good sear is forming. Aim for a dark golden-brown color on the skin for the best texture contrast.

Flip the salmon only once during cooking to maintain its shape. If it's sticking when you attempt to flip, it likely needs a bit more time to release naturally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of your fillets. The finished salmon should flake easily with a fork but remain moist inside.

Serving Suggestions

These Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls are wonderfully versatile. You can swap out the butter lettuce for romaine or even collard greens for a slightly different texture. Each option pairs well with the components of the dish. For added crunch and flavor, consider adding thinly sliced radishes or bell peppers to your veggie medley.

If you’re looking to make this dish ahead, prepare the salmon and sauce in advance, then assemble the bowls right before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. Store the marinated salmon in your refrigerator for up to two days. As for garnishes, fresh herbs like mint or basil can elevate the flavor profile if desired.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 carrot, julienned
Fresh cilantro and green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for topping

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to assemble your tasty Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls.

Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil until smooth.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Cook the Salmon

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated salmon skin-side down and sear for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Assemble the Bowls

On each lettuce leaf, place a portion of the salmon, cucumber, and carrot. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds.

Enjoy these delightful bowls as a fresh and flavorful meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite vegetables or add some spicy elements like sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you anticipate having leftovers, it's best to store the salmon separately from the lettuce and other toppings to maintain their freshness and texture. When reheating, gently warm the salmon in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out, or microwave it on low power in short bursts, checking frequently.

For a unique twist, consider turning any leftover salmon into a delicious salad the next day. Flake the salmon onto a bed of mixed greens and toss with the remaining peanut sauce for a quick, flavorful lunch.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is easily adaptable for those with dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free version, substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. If you're vegan, swap the salmon for grilled tofu or tempeh, marinating it in the same peanut sauce for a similar flavor experience.

You can also reduce the caloric content by using a lighter peanut butter or substituting it with tahini for a different flavor profile. Both offer a creamy richness and can work well in this context.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with the base recipe to suit your tastes! Adding a splash of lime juice or chili sauce to the marinade can provide an exciting zest and heat. This helps to transform the dish into a more vibrant and dynamic meal, particularly if you enjoy a bit of spice.

Incorporating chopped nuts, such as peanuts or cashews, to the topping can add an extra layer of texture. Toast them lightly in your skillet for enhanced flavor before sprinkling on top of your assembled lettuce bowls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the salmon with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use tofu for a vegetarian option or chicken for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Is it possible to make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

→ What can I use instead of butter lettuce?

Romaine or iceberg lettuce can also work well as a wrap in this recipe.