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 (about 6 oz each); 8 large lettuce leaves (Butter or Romaine); 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cucumber, thinly sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; Chopped cilantro for garnish; 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2-3 teaspoons hot water (to thin, if needed)

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh

I love making these Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls because they strike the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, nutty taste of the peanut sauce paired with the tender salmon and crisp lettuce creates a refreshing yet satisfying meal. I often whip these up on busy weeknights when I want something nutritious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they are super easy to customize with any veggies you have on hand, making them a versatile favorite in our household.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:14:28.193Z

When I first tried these Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls, I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare a gourmet dish at home. The vibrant colors and delicious aromas filled my kitchen and made me feel like a top chef! The key to the sauce is using fresh ingredients and letting it sit for a bit to blend the flavors.

What I love most is how flexible this recipe is. If I don’t have salmon, I substitute with chicken or tofu, and it’s just as delightful. The crunch of the lettuce adds a perfect texture, tying everything together in this healthy, quick dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Flavor-packed peanut sauce that elevates everyday salmon
Crisp lettuce wraps for a crunchy and fresh bite
Quick and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights

Key Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Salmon

To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, starting with a clean grill or skillet is essential. Preheat your cooking surface over medium heat, ensuring it’s hot enough to create a nice sear. Place the seasoned salmon fillets skin-side down to lock in moisture, and resist the urge to move them for the first few minutes. Look for a golden crust forming around the edges, usually within 4-5 minutes, before flipping. This method helps retain the fish's natural flavors and juices, resulting in a tender final product.

Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your salmon fillets, so using an instant-read thermometer can be beneficial. The FDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145°F. Once cooked, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and have an opaque appearance throughout. If you're using previously frozen salmon, ensure it's fully thawed for even cooking; a handy tip is to let it sit in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking.

Customizing Your Lettuce Bowls

One of the best features of these Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls is their flexibility. While the base ingredients provide a delicious combo of flavors, you can easily swap in other vegetables based on what's available. For a spicy kick, try adding sliced radishes or shredded red cabbage. If you prefer a milder sweetness, bell peppers can be replaced with sliced mango or fresh pineapple. Always remember to keep a balance of textures—crunchy, creamy, and tender—when selecting your vegetables.

If you're looking to make this dish vegan or vegetarian, firm tofu is an excellent substitute for salmon. Marinate the tofu in the same peanut sauce for extra flavor before pan-frying it until golden brown. Additionally, you could substitute traditional lettuce with collard greens or cabbage leaves for a sturdier wrap that can support heftier fillings. The options are virtually endless, encouraging you to get creative with your bowl components!

Ingredients

For the Salad

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
8 large lettuce leaves (Butter or Romaine)
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
Chopped cilantro for garnish

For the Peanut Sauce

1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
2-3 teaspoons hot water (to thin, if needed)

Instructions

Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Add hot water gradually until desired consistency is reached.

Cook the Salmon

Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the salmon fillets with salt and pepper and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through.

Assemble the Bowls

On each lettuce leaf, layer salmon, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and bell pepper. Drizzle with peanut sauce and top with chopped cilantro.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately, allowing everyone to create their own lettuce wraps with the fillings and sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, feel free to add sriracha to the peanut sauce or sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for added crunch.

Peanut Sauce Perfection

The peanut sauce is the star of this recipe, and there are a few tips to ensure it reaches maximum creaminess. When incorporating peanut butter, using a natural, creamy variety enhances the sauce's texture. Gradually whisk in hot water until your desired consistency is achieved; this ensures the sauce remains smooth rather than clumpy. If you prefer a little extra spice, try adding a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for an appealing heat that complements the nutty flavor.

For those with dietary restrictions, swapping out ingredients can be simple. Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version, and agave syrup or maple syrup can replace honey for vegan options. If peanut allergies are a concern, sunflower seed butter can serve as an excellent alternative while retaining a similar creamy texture.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These Peanut Soy Salmon Lettuce Bowls are perfect for meal prep; you can store the components separately for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep the peanut sauce, salmon, and veggies in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you're ready to enjoy, simply assemble the bowls as directed; a quick drizzle of sauce over the top adds an appealing gloss. Reassembly allows the lettuce to remain crisp, which is key to a satisfying crunch with each bite.

If you wish to freeze leftovers, it's best to store any unused salmon separately, as the texture may change once thawed. Prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time and freeze it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy portion control. Simply let thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and you'll have your delicious sauce ready to go for future meals!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking for best results.

→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?

Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used if you need a nut-free option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the peanut sauce to keep it gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can cook the salmon and prepare the peanut sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the bowls just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.