Salmon Avocado Sushi Roll

Name: Salmon Avocado Sushi Roll
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 rolls
Ingredients: 2 cups sushi rice; 2 1/2 cups water; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 sheets of nori (seaweed); 1 ripe avocado, sliced; 8 ounces fresh salmon, thinly sliced; Soy sauce, for serving; Pickled ginger, for serving; Wasabi, for serving

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

I absolutely love making Salmon Avocado Sushi Rolls at home! The combination of fresh salmon, creamy avocado, and perfectly seasoned sushi rice is simply irresistible. This recipe allows me to create a restaurant-quality dish right in my kitchen. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a delightful meal that not only looks impressive but also tastes incredible. Plus, rolling sushi is a fun activity that I enjoy sharing with friends and family. Let's dive into this delicious adventure together!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:10:27.785Z

When I first tried making sushi at home, I was surprised by how easy and rewarding it was. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, especially fresh salmon and ripe avocados. I’ve found that letting the rice cool slightly before rolling helps it stick better. Rolling sushi might seem daunting, but with a bit of practice, I now roll with confidence!

Each time I make these rolls, I experiment with different fillings and toppings. One of my favorite tips is to add a sprinkle of sesame seeds after rolling, which not only adds flavor but also a lovely crunch. The joy of sharing these homemade sushi rolls with family makes it all worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh ingredients that provide a burst of flavor
A delightful balance between creamy avocado and rich salmon
Great for sharing or a fun meal prep option

Understanding Sushi Rice

The foundation of an excellent Salmon Avocado Sushi Roll lies in the sushi rice. It's essential to choose the right kind of rice; short-grain sushi rice is recommended due to its sticky texture when cooked, which helps the rolls hold together. The rinsing process is crucial to remove excess starch and ensure your sushi rice doesn't become gummy. After cooking, let the rice sit for a bit to allow it to cool without becoming too dry; this will help achieve the perfect glossy finish before seasoning.

When preparing your sushi rice, combining it with the vinegar mixture while it's still warm allows the grains to absorb the flavors better. There’s a balance to achieve here; adding too much vinegar will overpower the delicate flavor of the fish, while too little can leave the rice feeling bland. Taste as you mix to ensure a subtle tang that highlights the freshness of the salmon and avocado.

Nori: The Unsung Hero

Choosing high-quality nori can enhance your sushi experience significantly. Look for nori that is dark green, crisp, and somewhat shiny. Avoid any that appears dull or has a brownish tint, as this can indicate staleness. Toasting the nori briefly over an open flame can enhance its flavor and make it easier to work with—just be cautious not to scorch it; you want it warmed until aromatic but not burnt.

When assembling your sushi, pay attention to how you place the nori. The shiny side should always face downwards so it can seamlessly adhere to the rice and fillings. If your rolls are unravelling, the most common culprit is not using enough water to seal the edge. A light touch with your fingers dampened in water is often all it takes to ensure a tight, secure roll.

Serving and Storing Your Sushi Rolls

Once you’ve sliced your sushi rolls, consider serving them with a drizzle of soy sauce topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added flavor and a delightful crunch. I like to garnish my plate with fresh wasabi and slices of pickled ginger, not just for flavor but also to cleanse the palate between bites. If you’re serving a group, arranging the slices in a spiral pattern can create an appealing presentation.

Sushi rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the texture of the rice will change as it cools, so reheating is not recommended. For meal prep, consider rolling the sushi without cutting it, which allows you to slice them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Additionally, if you fancy variations, try adding ingredients like cucumber or mango for a burst of color and flavor!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients for Salmon Avocado Sushi Roll

2 cups sushi rice
2 1/2 cups water
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 sheets of nori (seaweed)
1 ripe avocado, sliced
8 ounces fresh salmon, thinly sliced
Soy sauce, for serving
Pickled ginger, for serving
Wasabi, for serving

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready for a smooth sushi rolling experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Salmon Avocado Sushi Rolls:

Prepare the Sushi Rice

Rinse the sushi rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. Combine the rinsed rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Mix the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl until dissolved, then fold this mixture into the warm rice.

Assemble the Roll

Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface and lay a sheet of nori, shiny side down. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), spread a thin layer of sushi rice over 3/4 of the nori, leaving the top edge free for sealing. Arrange slices of avocado and salmon in the center.

Roll the Sushi

Using the bamboo mat, start rolling the sushi away from you, applying gentle pressure to keep it tight. Roll until you reach the free edge of the nori. Dampen that edge with water to seal the roll. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Slice and Serve

Once all rolls are made, use a sharp knife to slice each roll into 6-8 pieces. Serve with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi.

Enjoy your homemade sushi rolls fresh and flavorful!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use a sharp knife when slicing sushi for clean cuts. Wet the knife occasionally to prevent sticking. Experiment by adding other ingredients like cucumber or cream cheese for variety!

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh salmon is not available, sushi-grade tuna or shrimp can be excellent alternatives for your salmon avocado rolls. Just make sure whatever seafood you choose is sushi-grade to ensure safety when consuming it raw. For a vegetarian option, consider using marinated tofu or your favorite crunchy vegetables like julienned carrots and cucumbers, which pair well with the creamy avocado.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily swap out the sushi rice for quinoa or brown rice, although the texture and flavor will differ significantly. When preparing the seasoned mixture, use a 1:1 ratio of rice vinegar to sweetener of choice, such as agave or honey, to maintain a similar flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your sushi rolls keep falling apart, check the moisture content of your sushi rice. It should be sticky but not overly wet. If the rice is too dry, it won’t hold together well; conversely, too much water will make it mushy. Finding that perfect consistency may require a few practice rounds, but it's worth it for those perfect bites.

Another common issue is getting the rolls too tight or too loose. When rolling, focus on applying gentle but consistent pressure. If the rolls are too tight, they may break apart when sliced; if too loose, they won't hold their shape. A gentle but firm hand is key, and practicing your rolling technique with a food-safe mat will make a significant difference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

While fresh salmon is preferred for its flavor and texture, canned salmon can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it's well-drained and flaked.

→ Is it necessary to use sushi rice?

Yes, sushi rice is specially designed to stick together, which is crucial for making rolls. Regular rice won't provide the same texture.

→ How do I store leftover sushi?

It's best to eat sushi fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to one day. Enjoy cold.

→ Can I make sushi without a bamboo mat?

Absolutely! Use a large sheet of parchment paper or even your hands to shape the rolls, though a bamboo mat makes it easier.