High-Protein Sesame Crusted Salmon Bowl

Name: High-Protein Sesame Crusted Salmon Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets ((about 6 oz each)); 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (divided); 2 tbsp black sesame seeds; 2 tbsp white sesame seeds; 2 heads baby bok choy (halved lengthwise); 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1 tsp chili oil ((optional)); 1 cup cooked rice (white and brown both work well); 1 cup shelled edamame (thawed or warmed); 1 green onion (thinly sliced)

In this post:

Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Salmon Bowl
Key Ingredients
How to Make This High-Protein Salmon Bowl
Tips & Variations
Storage & Meal Prep
FAQ
The Recipe

Looking for a simple weeknight dinner that’s as delicious as it is healthy? This High-Protein Sesame Crusted Salmon Bowl has over 50 grams of protein, 8 grams of fiber, and is done in just 25 minutes.

Every January, I feel the urge to clean things up a bit. More protein, more vegetables, meals that actually support my energy. But it is also cold, and I still want food that feels warm and comforting.

That is where this high-protein salmon bowl comes in.

Crispy sesame-crusted salmon, soy-glazed bok choy, fluffy rice, and a simple savory sauce come together in a way that feels satisfying without being heavy. Each serving delivers 51 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber, so it actually keeps you full.

This is one of those meals that makes eating well in January feel doable, not restrictive.

This recipe is part of my 30 under 30 series, where I share recipes that take under 30 minutes to make and have over 30 grams of protein per serving. Hungry for more?

High protein salmon bowl with sesame crusted salmon, soy glazed bok choy, edamame, and rice topped with green onions

Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Salmon Bowl

It delivers 51 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber, so it actually keeps you full and satisfied
The salmon and bok choy cook together in the air fryer or oven, which keeps prep simple and cleanup minimal
The soy-sesame sauce pulls everything together and does double duty as both a seasoning and sauce
It feels warm and comforting, but still super nourishing

Looking for another protein-packed salmon dinner? Try this Sheet Pan Honey Mustard Salmon with Potatoes & Broccolini.

Sesame crusted salmon and bok choy cooking together in the air fryer

Key Ingredients

Salmon fillets: Rich in protein and healthy fats, salmon is the foundation of this bowl and gets coated in soy sauce and sesame seeds for a crisp, savory crust.
Black and white sesame seeds: These create texture and nutty flavor while giving the salmon that classic sesame-crusted finish.
Baby bok choy: A winter-friendly green that becomes tender and lightly caramelized when cooked, adding both fiber and freshness to the bowl.
Soy-sesame sauce: This simple sauce ties the entire bowl together and is used to glaze the bok choy and finish the bowl.
Rice: Soft, warm, and comforting, white or brown rice balances the bold flavors and makes the bowl feel satisfying.
Edamame: Adds plant-based protein, fiber, and a pop of color that rounds out the bowl.
Green onions: Thinly sliced for a fresh finish that cuts through the richness.

Want a one-pot comfort meal that still feels balanced? Try the One-Pot Healthy Lemon Chicken Orzo.

How to Make This High-Protein Salmon Bowl

This high-protein salmon bowl is made in just a few simple steps, with the salmon and bok choy cooked together for an easy, balanced meal.

Salmon fillets coated in black and white sesame seeds before cooking

Prepare the salmon
Remove the skin from the salmon fillets if needed and pat dry. Coat with soy sauce, then press mixed black and white sesame seeds evenly over the salmon.

Homemade soy sesame drizzle sauce for high protein salmon bowl

Make the sauce
Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, toasted sesame oil, and chili oil (optional) until smooth and pourable.

Soy glazed baby bok choy roasted until tender and lightly caramelized

Prepare the bok choy
Rinse and dry the baby bok choy, then toss with some of the sauce to lightly coat.

Raw sesame crusted salmon fillets and baby bok choy prepared for air frying

Bake or Air Fry
Air fry or bake until the salmon is cooked through and the sesame crust is golden and crisp.

Sesame crusted salmon bowl with rice, edamame, and roasted bok choy in a white bowl

Build the bowls
Divide cooked white rice between bowls and top with edamame, the sesame-crusted salmon, and the soy-glazed bok choy. Drizzle with the remaining sauce and top with sliced green onions.

Craving something savory with umami flavors? You’ll also enjoy this Sheet Pan Miso-Glazed Salmon with Kabocha Squash & Broccolini.

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Tips & Variations

Keep it gluten-free: Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep the entire bowl gluten-free.
Swap the fish: This recipe works well with trout, Arctic char, or cod. Adjust the cooking time slightly depending on thickness.
Try other vegetables: Swap the bok choy for broccoli, broccolini, green beans, or snap peas. Choose vegetables that roast well and hold up to the soy-sesame flavors.
Other grains or greens: Serve the salmon over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or greens.

Storage & Meal Prep

This high-protein salmon bowl keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.

The soy-sesame sauce can be made ahead and stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently and assemble just before serving, adding the sauce and green onions at the end for the best flavor and texture.