We get it: slop bowls are tired; you’re tired of them. But when you’re tired, and when your child is at the stage where a bowl full of relatively random crap is kind of exciting, there are few easier and better weeknight dinners than a mix-and-match assortment of foods, tastes, and textures–all thrown together in, yeah, a bowl. Protein, grains, and vegetables? All in one salmon rice bowl, baby. Choice and customization? In their control. Easy enough to make and delicious enough to squelch hunger and complaints about you making something new? You can’t say that about many dinner options for the toddler set; this bowl, though, is one of them.
We also get it: what you saw from the title and pic may not look like much at first, what with its modest components–not much ‘wow’ factor for a small child, sure. Here, though, the fish–or whatever protein you want–is glazed in teriyaki and roasted, providing a sweet note to the tender flesh; the rice, cooked in coconut milk and broth, is toothsome–good luck getting your child to stop eating it. And the toppings? The real reason your children will love it: it’s whatever mix of crunchy (seaweed crisps, pickles, etc.) and smooth (avocado) you and your family want, and it turns plain ol’ salmon and rice into something like a poke bowl for preschoolers. Get this: they’ll get it.
This toddler-friendly salmon rice bowl keeps the core simple—fully cooked teriyaki-glazed salmon and coconut-infused rice—then builds outward with optional toppings your child can choose from. The base is savory-sweet and familiar, while the toppings add contrast: creamy avocado, crunchy seaweed snacks, mild beans, quick-pickled cucumber, and soft edamame. Nothing here is challenging on its own, but together it creates a customizable, poke-style bowl that works especially well for toddlers who like control over what ends up on their plate.
Is this salmon bowl safe for toddlers?
Yes. The salmon is fully cooked, flaked or sliced thin, and paired with soft rice and mild toppings. Avoid raw fish and keep pieces small for younger toddlers.
Can I use a different protein instead of salmon?
Absolutely. Teriyaki works well with chicken, beef, or tofu. Cook thoroughly and cut into toddler-appropriate pieces.
What if my child doesn’t like everything in the bowl?
That’s the point. Serve toppings separately and let them choose. Even if they eat just rice and salmon at first, they’re still getting a balanced meal.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes. The rice and salmon can be cooked in advance and reheated gently. Keep toppings separate until serving.
This toddler-friendly salmon rice bowl pairs teriyaki-glazed, fully cooked salmon with rich coconut rice and customizable toppings. It’s a poke-style dinner for preschoolers that’s easy to make, fun to eat, and endlessly adaptable.
Drain and rinse beans and corn; heat as/if directed. Place beans and corn in a small bowl; sprinkle with salt, dried cilantro leaves, and a big squeeze or two of lime, then mix.
Peel skin if needed, then cut thin slices vertically; place in a wide and shallow bowl or container. Place water, vinegar, salt, and dill in a small pot and heat on high until contents of the pot are boiling and salt has dissolved in the liquid, then immediately remove from heat and pour over cucumbers. Cover and allow to sit for 30 minutes.
Plate slices of salmon on top of or beside a scoop of rice; set out the rest of the ingredients you choose to offer in small bowls in the center of the table–but reachable by your child. We also take out the usual mix of sauces and condiments–barbecue sauce, hoisin, ranch, et al.--to allow further customization.
For a crisper, albeit more well-done and flakier salmon, cut the thicker center portions of the filet into cubes of roughly equal size (one inch by one inch, essential) and marinate in the teriyaki sauce as instructed; cook in your air fryer for six minutes at 400. Teriyaki works with just about any protein, so feel free to use chicken, beef, even tofu instead.
Servings 5
Serving Size small bowl of salmon, rice, avocado, veggies, and a little sauce
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Brad (the Dad) is the founder and Chief Recipe Officer of New Dad's Kitchen. His own cooking/feeding journey started humbly during his son's infancy, preparing and managing his son's bottle intake in order to support his wife; it has since blossomed into a full-on passion to feed his child and family delicious and healthy meals that can satisfy both a toddler and his very tired parents.
