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Sushi Cups

Super Easy Sushi Cups: The Best Rice Appetizer for Parties & Lunches


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 sushi cups (about 6 servings) 1x

Description

These **Baked Salmon Sushi Cups** are a fun, beginner-friendly twist on sushi—no rolling required! Crispy nori, seasoned sushi rice, and creamy baked salmon come together in under 30 minutes for a salty-sweet, umami-packed bite. Perfect as a party appetizer, quick lunch, or meal prep option, these sushi cups are versatile, customizable, and irresistibly delicious.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cooked sushi rice
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2 lb cooked salmon, shredded
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
  • 6 sheets nori (seaweed), cut into quarters
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional topping)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
  • 1 green onion, sliced (optional topping)
  • Optional: soy sauce, pickled ginger, cucumber slices

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook sushi rice according to package directions. While warm, stir in vinegar, sugar, and salt.
  2. Make the Filling: Mix shredded salmon with mayonnaise and sriracha until creamy.
  3. Assemble the Cups: Place quartered nori sheets into a muffin tin, forming small cups. Add 1–2 tbsp rice and press gently.
  4. Add the Salmon: Top rice with a spoonful of the salmon mixture.
  5. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, until nori is crisp and salmon slightly golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Top with avocado, green onion, and sesame seeds. Serve with soy sauce or dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Use short-grain sushi rice for the best stickiness and texture.
  • Press rice firmly so the cups hold their shape.
  • Avoid overstuffing—these are meant to be bite-sized.
  • Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Variations: try poke-style raw fish, tofu for vegan, or tropical fruit toppings like mango.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers, Snacks, Asian-Inspired, Rice Recipes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired, Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 sushi cups
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 260mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Sushi Cups, Baked Salmon Sushi Cups, Easy Sushi Appetizer, Rice Cups, Party Snacks, DIY Sushi