DinnerEasyFlare-FriendlyGluten-FreeDairy-Free

Simple Baked Salmon with White Rice

Flaky baked salmon over fluffy white rice. Each serving provides approximately 1.5-2g of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids with just 1g fiber—a combination many of us find gentle during active flares. Research suggests regular fatty fish consumption may support reduced intestinal inflammation.

Simple Baked Salmon with White Rice
Total Time
30m
Servings
2
Calories
420
Fiber
1g
Protein
32g
Carbs
40g
Fat
14g
Best ForSafe for Crohn's & UC
Active FlareRecoveringRemissionStricturePost-Op (Late)J-Pouch

Watch Out For

lemonmild

Acidity may irritate sensitive stomachs or active mouth sores

Tip: Omit entirely—recipe works well without it. Citrus fruits were reported as symptom triggers in 2 of 9 research studies examining IBD food sensitivities.

black peppermild

Some find spices irritating during active flares

Tip: Omit if you're sensitive to spices. The salmon is flavorful enough with just salt and olive oil.

Ingredients

  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP
  • Low FODMAP

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    400°F (200°C)Equipment: baking sheet, parchment paper
  2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a medium pot and bring to a boil over high heat.

    Equipment: medium pot
  3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.

    Tip: Do not lift the lid while simmering—trapped steam is essential for properly cooked rice
  4. While the rice cooks, pat the salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels.

    Equipment: paper towels
    Tip: Dry salmon is key for better texture and slight browning on the surface
  5. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

  6. Drizzle each fillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil and gently rub to coat the surface. Season with salt and pepper (if using).

  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, until the salmon flakes easily when pressed gently with a fork and the thickest part is opaque throughout. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety.

    145°F (63°C)
    Tip: Many prefer 135-140°F for a more tender, slightly translucent center
  8. Remove the rice from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to steam and fluff.

  9. Fluff the rice with a fork and divide between two plates. Top each portion with a salmon fillet.

    Equipment: fork
  10. Serve with a small squeeze of fresh lemon and a sprinkle of dill, if desired.

Notes

Storage

Refrigerate salmon and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat salmon gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to prevent drying, or enjoy cold over a salad. Reheat rice in the microwave with a damp paper towel on top to restore moisture.

Fish substitutions

Cod, tilapia, or sole work well for a milder, leaner option, though you'll lose the omega-3 benefits that make salmon particularly helpful for IBD. Arctic char or trout are closer flavor matches with similar omega-3 content.

SCD alternative

White rice is not permitted on the Specific Carbohydrate Diet. Substitute with well-cooked, mashed butternut squash (monitor portion size—amber at 70g per Monash) or cauliflower rice for an SCD-legal version.

Make-ahead

Cook rice up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate. The salmon is best cooked fresh, but you can season the fillets and refrigerate them up to 4 hours before baking.

Scaling

This recipe doubles or triples easily. Use multiple baking sheets and rotate their positions halfway through baking for even cooking.

IBD Considerations

Diet Protocol Compliance

How this recipe fits common IBD dietary approaches