This Philadelphia Roll Sushi Bowl takes everything you love about the iconic sushi roll—smoked salmon, creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, and tangy cream cheese—and turns it into an easy, family-friendly bowl.
There’s no need to roll anything, which makes this a great option for sushi cravings when you’re short on time or don’t want to fuss with seaweed and mats.
These bowls are on regular rotation in our house. They’re quick to assemble, deliciously satisfying, and easy to adapt for both adults and kids.
The combo of sushi rice with silky cream cheese and smoked salmon is just indulgent enough to feel like a treat, but nourishing and fresh enough to feel light and balanced.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Philadelphia Roll Sushi Bowl gives you sushi bar flavor without the price tag or effort. The tangy cream cheese melts slightly into the warm rice, pairing beautifully with rich smoked salmon and crisp cucumbers. It’s creamy, crunchy, salty, and fresh all at once.
These bowls are ideal for weeknight meals, lunches, or even DIY sushi nights with the family. They’re endlessly customizable—swap the rice, switch up the toppings, or turn it into a meal prep star for the week.
What You’ll Need
For the Base
- 2 cups cooked sushi rice
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Toppings
- 4 oz smoked salmon, sliced or chopped
- ½ avocado, sliced or cubed
- ½ cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
- ¼ cup cream cheese, cubed
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, sliced
- Soy sauce or tamari, to serve
- Optional: pickled ginger, wasabi, nori strips
Pro Tips
- Use warm rice so the cream cheese slightly melts—this adds richness.
- Slice cream cheese while cold for cleaner cubes, then let soften slightly in the bowl.
- Don’t overdo the vinegar in the rice—you want balance, not sourness.
- Layer veggies thoughtfully to distribute texture and flavor in every bite.
- If prepping ahead, add avocado just before serving to prevent browning.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan or rice cooker
- Small bowl for seasoning rice
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing spoon
- Serving bowls
Substitutions and Variations
- Grain swap: Use quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice.
- No dairy: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative or avocado “mash.”
- No salmon: Use cooked shrimp, imitation crab, or marinated tofu.
- Add crunch: Top with crispy onions or toasted nori strips.
- Spicy version: Add sriracha mayo or diced jalapeños.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Rice can be cooked up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Warm slightly before assembling.
- Slice cucumber and salmon and cube cream cheese ahead of time.
- For meal prep: store each component separately, and assemble just before serving.
How to Make Philadelphia Roll Sushi Bowls
1. Cook and Season the Rice
Prepare 2 cups of sushi rice according to the package. While warm, gently fold in 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Let cool slightly before assembling.
2. Prepare the Toppings
Slice the smoked salmon into strips or chunks. Cube the cream cheese. Julienne the cucumber and slice the avocado and green onion.
3. Assemble the Bowls
Spoon rice into bowls. Arrange smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumber, and avocado neatly over the top. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
4. Add Extras
Serve with soy sauce or tamari on the side, along with optional pickled ginger, wasabi, or nori for an authentic sushi experience.
Leftovers and Storage
Store rice and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat rice slightly before serving.
- Wait to cut avocado until just before eating to keep it fresh.
- This dish is not ideal for freezing.
Nutrition & Benefits
This bowl combines protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs in a balanced way.
Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, avocado provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and cucumber offers hydration and crunch. Cream cheese adds creaminess and calcium, while rice gives satisfying energy to keep you full.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use cooked salmon instead of smoked?
Absolutely—grilled or baked salmon is a great substitute.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and double-check your cream cheese brand.
3. How can I make this bowl spicy?
Add a drizzle of sriracha or spicy mayo for a kick.
4. Can I make this low-carb?
Use cauliflower rice or shredded cabbage instead of sushi rice.
5. What other toppings go well with this?
Try shredded carrots, edamame, radish, or crispy seaweed strips.
Creamy, Simple, and Sushi-Inspired
This Philadelphia Roll Sushi Bowl is the perfect combination of fresh ingredients and creamy indulgence—no rolling required.
Whether you’re craving sushi or just want an easy dinner packed with flavor and texture, this bowl delivers every time.