Mojo Salmon Bowls are a vibrant, Cuban-inspired culinary delight, perfectly crafted with tender salmon, hearty black beans, sweet pineapple, rich avocado, and the most incredible, zesty sauce you’ll ever taste!

Mojo Salmon Bowls: Your New Favorite Healthy Dinner

Prepare to be utterly captivated by these light, fresh, and exceptionally flavorful Mojo Salmon Bowls. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant experience that brings the sunny essence of Cuban cuisine right to your table. Each component is thoughtfully chosen to create a symphony of tastes and textures, making every bite a true pleasure.

While every element of these bowls contributes to their amazing appeal, the homemade Mojo sauce truly stands out as the star. I generally lean towards simpler sauces, but this particular recipe, with its slightly more extensive ingredient list, is absolutely worth the extra effort. Trust me, the depth of flavor it adds is unparalleled, transforming the entire dish.

This exquisite sauce forms the perfect complement to the expertly seasoned, pan-seared salmon. Its bright, tangy notes cut through the richness of the fish, while the fresh, sweet pineapple and creamy avocado add layers of complexity and refreshment. The combination is simply irresistible, and I am confident that these Mojo Salmon Bowls will quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Crafting the Perfect Salmon: Key Ingredients

The foundation of our incredible Mojo Salmon Bowls begins with the star ingredient: perfectly cooked salmon. Choosing the right cut and seasoning it correctly is crucial for achieving that irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need for the salmon and why each ingredient plays a vital role:

• Salmon Fillets: Opt for high-quality, fresh skinless salmon fillets. Skinless varieties are not only faster to prep but also significantly easier to slice into uniform strips and cook evenly. For the best results, look for fillets that are about 1-inch thick to ensure consistent cooking. Wild-caught salmon often offers a richer flavor and firmer texture, though sustainably farmed options are also excellent.
• Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, tangy acidity that beautifully cuts through the richness of the salmon, enhancing its natural flavors. This citrus element also helps tenderize the fish slightly during the marination process.
• Lime Zest: Don’t discard that lime peel! The zest is packed with aromatic oils that provide a much more intense and vibrant citrus flavor than juice alone, elevating the salmon’s profile with a fragrant lift.
• Olive Oil: Essential for both marinating and cooking. In the marinade, olive oil helps the spices adhere to the salmon and infuses flavor. When sautéing, it provides the perfect medium for searing the salmon to a golden-brown perfection, ensuring a tender, flaky interior.
• Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Garlic Powder, and Onion Powder: This powerful blend of spices creates a warm, earthy, and aromatic flavor profile that is deeply satisfying and truly Cuban-inspired. Chili powder adds a mild heat and smoky depth, cumin brings its distinctive earthy notes, paprika contributes a sweet, peppery warmth and beautiful color, while garlic and onion powder ensure a foundational savory richness. Together, these spices create a robust coating that transforms plain salmon into a highly flavorful protein.

Ingredient Selection Tips for Optimal Flavor

For a truly outstanding dish, paying attention to the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. When selecting salmon, look for fillets that are vibrant in color, firm to the touch, and have a fresh, mild smell. If purchasing frozen salmon, ensure it’s fully thawed in the refrigerator before use. For citrus, choose firm limes and oranges that feel heavy for their size, indicating plenty of juice. Freshly zesting and juicing your citrus just before use provides the brightest and most potent flavor.

The Star of the Show: Homemade Mojo Sauce Ingredients

The Mojo sauce is what truly ties these bowls together, delivering a burst of fresh, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that elevates every ingredient. This creamy, bright sauce is surprisingly easy to make and becomes the irresistible centerpiece of your meal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients needed for this exceptional dressing:

• Ripe Avocado: The secret to the sauce’s luscious, creamy texture and rich flavor. Ensure you use a truly ripe avocado; it should yield slightly to gentle pressure. For accuracy, mash and pack it tightly into a 1/3 measuring cup to get the perfect amount. Avocado also contributes healthy fats and a subtle, buttery undertone.
• Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: These are the heart of the “Mojo” flavor. Freshly squeezed orange juice provides a sweet and tangy base, while the zest, rich in aromatic oils, intensifies that bright citrus kick, making the sauce truly vibrant and refreshing.
• White Vinegar: A touch of white vinegar (or white wine vinegar for a slightly softer tang) adds a crucial acidic balance. It brightens the sauce, preventing it from tasting flat and ensuring all the flavors pop.
• Jalapeño: For those who appreciate a touch of heat, jalapeño adds a pleasant subtle warmth without overpowering the other flavors. If you prefer less spice, make sure to remove all the seeds and membranes. If you’re sensitive to heat, or serving to children, feel free to skip it entirely—the sauce will still be incredibly flavorful.
• Fresh Cilantro: An indispensable herb for its distinctive fresh, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy flavor. Cilantro adds a crucial element of brightness and authentic Cuban flair to the sauce. Don’t be shy; use both leaves and tender stems for maximum flavor.
• Mayo (Mayonnaise): Contributes to the smooth, velvety texture and richness of the sauce, providing a satisfying mouthfeel and helping to emulsify all the ingredients beautifully. You can use full-fat or a lighter version depending on your preference.
• Honey: A small amount of honey introduces just the right touch of natural sweetness, balancing the acidity from the citrus and vinegar, and complementing the subtle heat from the jalapeño. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste; start with less and add more if desired.
• Olive Oil: While a significant amount of olive oil is used to blend the sauce, it’s a crucial component that helps create a smooth emulsion, adds body, and provides a fruity, peppery depth to the overall flavor profile.

Why This Sauce is a Game-Changer

This Mojo sauce isn’t just a dressing; it’s a flavor enhancer that ties all the vibrant components of the bowl together. Its creamy texture ensures that every piece of salmon, every bean, and every fruit chunk is coated in deliciousness. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes makes it versatile enough to complement many dishes, but it truly shines in these Cuban-inspired salmon bowls.

Elevate Your Bowl: Recommended Additions

While the seasoned salmon and incredible Mojo sauce are the stars, the accompanying additions are what transform these ingredients into a complete, satisfying, and visually stunning meal. These elements add freshness, texture, and a variety of flavors that perfectly complement the main components:

• Ripe Pineapple: Diced fresh pineapple adds a burst of tropical sweetness and juicy texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory salmon and zesty sauce. Its acidity also provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the other ingredients. If pineapple isn’t available or preferred, ripe mango is an excellent alternative, offering a similar sweet and tropical flavor profile.
• Pickled Red Onions: These tangy, slightly sweet, and crisp onions offer a fantastic zing that brightens the entire bowl. Their vibrant color and sharp flavor provide a welcome contrast to the milder components. Making them homemade is simple and adds an extra layer of gourmet appeal.
• Black Beans: A staple in Cuban cuisine, black beans bring a hearty, earthy, and satisfying element to the bowls. They add fiber and protein, making the meal more filling and well-rounded. Their mild flavor acts as a perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the salmon and sauce.
• Additional Avocado: Don’t let the other half of your avocado go to waste! Slicing or dicing extra fresh avocado to add to your bowls provides even more creamy texture and healthy fats. It cools the palate and adds a luxurious touch.
• Cooked White Rice: A classic base for these bowls, providing a neutral backdrop that allows the other flavors to shine. You can also opt for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for different nutritional profiles.
• Fresh Cilantro: A final sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves not only adds a beautiful pop of green but also reinforces the fresh, herbaceous notes found in the Mojo sauce.

Customization for Every Palate

The beauty of these Mojo Salmon Bowls lies in their versatility. Feel free to customize your toppings based on your personal preferences or what’s in season. Other fantastic additions could include sliced bell peppers, corn, a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. This adaptability makes them a perfect choice for diverse tastes and dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Mojo Salmon Bowls

Creating these delightful Mojo Salmon Bowls is a straightforward process, broken down into a few easy steps. Follow these instructions for a perfectly balanced and incredibly flavorful meal:

1. Prepare and Marinate Salmon: Begin by patting your salmon fillets thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps create a beautiful sear. If your salmon has skin, remove it if preferred, though it can also be cooked skin-on and then flaked. Slice the salmon into thin, approximately 1/2-inch strips. Transfer the strips to a large, resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon of lime zest, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, along with the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with 3/4 teaspoon of salt (or adjust to your preference) and freshly ground black pepper. Gently knead the bag or toss the salmon to ensure all the spices and marinade are evenly distributed. Let the salmon marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. It’s important not to marinate for too long, as the acid from the lime juice can start to “cook” the fish.
2. Craft the Mojo Sauce: While the salmon marinates, prepare your stellar Mojo sauce. In a small blender or food processor, combine all the sauce ingredients: 1/3 cup olive oil, 1/3 cup mashed ripe avocado (ensure it’s packed tightly into the measuring cup for accuracy), 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped jalapeño (if using, remember to remove seeds for less heat), 1 cup loosely packed cilantro (including tender stems), 1/4 cup mayo, and 2 teaspoons honey. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Transfer the sauce to a covered container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the bowls. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
3. Cook the Salmon to Perfection: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, nonstick skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat. The key to a great sear is a hot pan. Once the oil is shimmering and hot (it should sizzle immediately when a small piece of salmon is added), carefully add the marinated salmon strips in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the salmon in batches to avoid steaming it. Sear for 60-90 seconds per side, until the salmon is beautifully browned and cooked through but still flaky and moist. Remove the cooked salmon to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and flavorful fish. After resting, flake the salmon into bite-sized cubes using a fork.
4. Assemble Your Vibrant Bowls: To assemble, divide your desired base (such as cooked white rice) evenly among individual serving bowls. Arrange the cooked salmon over the rice. Then, artfully add your chosen toppings: the prepped black beans, sweet pineapple (or mango), fresh avocado slices, and pickled red onions. Finish each bowl with a generous spoonful of the chilled Mojo sauce. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately and savor the incredible fusion of flavors!

Effortless Meal Prep and Serving Suggestions

These bowls are not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep. Prepare all components ahead of time and store them separately for quick assembly throughout the week. Serve them as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. For a family-style meal, arrange all the components on a large platter and let everyone build their own custom bowls, adding to the fun and flexibility of this recipe.

Expert Tips for the Best Mojo Salmon Bowls

To ensure your Mojo Salmon Bowls are consistently delicious and hassle-free, keep these invaluable tips in mind:

• Strategic Early Prep: Get a head start on your meal by prepping ingredients ahead of time. Chop all your vegetables (pineapple, avocado, jalapeño, cilantro), prepare the Mojo sauce, and cook your rice earlier in the day or even the day before. This advanced preparation significantly streamlines the final assembly process, making dinner time much more relaxed.
• Cook Salmon in Batches for a Superior Sear: Achieving a beautiful, caramelized sear on your salmon is key to its flavor and texture. If your pan isn’t large enough to accommodate all the salmon in a single, uncrowded layer, cook it in batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the temperature, leading to steamed rather than seared salmon. Always ensure your oil is piping hot before adding the fish; you should hear a distinct sizzle upon contact for that perfect crust.
• Chill the Sauce for Enhanced Flavor and Texture: While the Mojo sauce is delicious immediately, allowing it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) works wonders. Chilling helps the flavors meld and deepen, resulting in a more harmonious and complex taste. It also allows the sauce to thicken slightly, creating a more appealing consistency that clings beautifully to the other ingredients.
• Invest in Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe focuses on fresh flavors, the quality of your ingredients truly shines. Choose fresh, high-quality salmon, ripe avocados, and vibrant, fragrant citrus for the best results.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste your marinade and sauce before combining with the main ingredients. Adjust salt, pepper, or honey as needed. Culinary success often comes down to personal preference, so don’t be afraid to tweak flavors to your liking.

Save
Saved
Pin
Print

5 from 2 votes

Mojo Salmon Bowls

By
Chelsea Lords

These delightful Mojo Salmon Bowls bring vibrant Cuban-inspired flavors to your table with juicy salmon, black beans, pineapple, creamy avocado, and an absolutely irresistible homemade sauce!

Prep Time:
40 minutes minutes

Total Time:
40 minutes minutes

Servings:

4
servings

Video

Equipment

• Small blender or food processor
• Large nonstick pan

Ingredients

Salmon

• ▢
  
  1 pound fresh skinless salmon filet (see note 1)

• ▢
  
  1 lime (juiced and zested)

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoon olive oil

• ▢
  
  1 1/2 teaspoon ground chili powder

• ▢
  
  1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon paprika

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Mojo Sauce

• ▢
  
  1/3 cup olive oil

• ▢
  
  1/3 cup ripe avocado (mashed and pressed into measuring cup)

• ▢
  
  1 orange (juiced and zested, yields ~1/4 cup juice & 1 tsp zest)

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

• ▢
  
  1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• ▢
  
  1 tablespoon coarsely chopped jalapeño (optional, remove seeds for less spice)

• ▢
  
  1 cup cilantro (loosely packed; leaves and tender stems)

• ▢
  
  1/4 cup mayo

• ▢
  
  2 teaspoons honey

• ▢
  
  Salt and pepper (to taste)

Bowl Additions (Choose your favorites!)

• ▢
  
  Serving suggestions (see note 2)

Instructions

• Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and remove the skin if desired. Slice the salmon into thin, 1/2-inch strips. In a large, resealable plastic bag or shallow bowl, combine 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon lime zest, 1 tablespoon olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with 3/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch of black pepper. Knead the bag or gently toss to mix the spices thoroughly, then add the salmon. Gently massage the marinade into the salmon. Let it marinate at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, but no longer, to avoid over-tenderizing the fish.
• In a small blender or food processor, combine all the sauce ingredients: 1/3 cup olive oil, 1/3 cup mashed ripe avocado, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 1 teaspoon orange zest, 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped jalapeño (if using), 1 cup loosely packed cilantro, 1/4 cup mayo, and 2 teaspoons honey. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, or to taste. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use; chilling will help the flavors meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, nonstick pan over high heat. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the salmon strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 60–90 seconds per side, until the salmon is golden-brown and cooked through. If necessary, cook in batches to ensure a good sear. Remove the salmon to a plate and let it stand for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute. Flake the salmon into bite-sized cubes with a fork.
• Divide the cooked white rice evenly among your serving bowls. Top generously with the cooked salmon, black beans, ripe diced pineapple (or mango), fresh avocado slices, and any other desired toppings like pickled red onions or extra cilantro. Spoon a generous amount of the chilled Mojo sauce over everything and enjoy your vibrant, Cuban-inspired meal!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: For even cooking and easy slicing, I recommend looking for salmon fillets that are consistently 1-inch thick.

Note 2: Excellent serving suggestions include: cooked white rice (or brown rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice), ripe diced pineapple or mango, quick pickled red onions, 1 can black beans (rinsed and drained), additional fresh cilantro, and/or extra avocado slices.

Storage: To maintain freshness and flavor, store the cooked salmon, prepared Mojo sauce, cooked rice, and all other toppings in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce keeps well in a mason jar. Rewarm the cooked components (salmon and rice) gently before assembling your bowls, then add the chilled sauce and fresh toppings just before eating for the best experience.

Nutrition Information

Serving:
1serving

|

Calories:
493kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
8.6g

|

Protein:
26.3g

|

Fat:
41g

|

Cholesterol:
63.7mg

|

Sodium:
181.8mg

|

Fiber:
63.7g

|

Sugar:
4.6g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Loved this recipe? Share your thoughts below!