Microwave Salmon and Broccoli Cheesy Bowl

Combine white rice, water, 1 tbsp butter, and 1/4 tsp salt in a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe plate or loose lid.

Microwave on high power for 5 minutes, then reduce to 70% power and microwave another 8 minutes. Let rest covered for 5 minutes — the carryover steam finishes the job. Fluff with a fork.

Place broccoli florets in a single layer in a microwave-safe bowl or on a plate. Scatter the 2 garlic cloves (peeled and smashed slightly) over the top.

Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over broccoli, squeeze half a lemon on top, and season with 1/4 tsp salt. Toss to coat evenly.

Cover loosely with a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high power for 3 minutes. Let rest covered for 2 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and crisp-tender with no sogginess.

Place salmon fillets on a microwave-safe plate, skin-side down. Dot with 1 tbsp butter and squeeze the remaining half lemon over the fillets. Season with 1/4 tsp salt and white pepper.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap (leaving one corner cracked for steam to escape) or a microwave-safe dome.

Microwave on medium-high (70% power) for 3 minutes. Use a food thermometer to verify salmon has reached 145°F (63°C) at the thickest point — the salmon should be opaque and flake easily but still feel slightly firm. If needed, microwave in 30-second bursts at 50% power until the thermometer confirms 145°F.

Rest uncovered for 2 minutes. The carryover heat finishes cooking the center without turning it rubbery.

Divide the fluffy rice between two bowls. Create a well in the center of each bowl for the salmon.

Arrange the steamed broccoli around the rice wells. Place one salmon fillet in each well.

Mix shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese together, then divide equally over the salmon and broccoli in each bowl.

Microwave each bowl on 50% power for 1 minute, then switch to high power for 30 seconds to get the cheese bubbling and lightly golden at the edges. Watch closely — 90 seconds total max.

Remove bowls from microwave. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the cheesy crowns for color and fresh brightness.

Serve immediately while the cheese is gleaming and the steam is still rising. No resting needed now — this is ready.