Bang Bang Salmon

This Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors and crispy texture. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or as an impressive appetizer for gatherings, this recipe combines seasoned salmon bites with a creamy, spicy sauce that elevates every bite. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll enjoy this quick and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Salmon Bites
• For the Bang Bang Sauce
• How to Make Bang Bang Salmon
• Step 1: Make the Sauce
• Step 2: Season the Salmon
• Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
• Step 4: Serve
• How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon
• As an Appetizer
• Over Rice
• In Tacos
• With Salads
• On Buns
• As a Grain Bowl
• How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon
• Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Bang Bang Salmon
• Reheating Bang Bang Salmon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Bang Bang Salmon?
• Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
• How can I make this dish spicier?
• What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon?
• Is there a way to customize the recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Bang Bang Salmon can be ready in just 27 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Thai sweet chili, sriracha, and lime creates a uniquely bold flavor that’s both sweet and spicy.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer at parties; it’s perfect for any occasion!
• Healthier Cooking Method: Using an air fryer ensures crispy salmon bites without excess oil, keeping your meal lighter.
• Easy Customization: Adjust the spice level by modifying the sriracha or adding more cayenne pepper to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can significantly improve your results and make preparation easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool allows you to achieve crispy salmon bites with less oil than traditional frying methods.
• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients evenly, especially when preparing the seasoning mix and sauce.
• Whisk: A whisk helps you create a smooth Bang Bang sauce without lumps by thoroughly mixing all components together.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites

• 1½ pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. ½ cup mayonnaise
2. ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
3. 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust according to taste)
4. 1 tablespoon honey
5. 1 tablespoon lime juice

Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a large bowl, toss together:
1. The bite-sized salmon pieces with:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– (¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper if using for extra heat)

Ensure each piece is well coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Then:
1. Place salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to work in batches).
2. Cook for 8–10 minutes.
3. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness until the salmon is cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer your crispy salmon bites to a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the prepared Bang Bang sauce and serve any extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Enjoy your flavorful Bang Bang Salmon!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As an Appetizer

• Serve bite-sized pieces of Bang Bang Salmon on skewers for easy eating at parties.
• Pair with dipping bowls of extra Bang Bang sauce for added flavor.

Over Rice

• Spoon the salmon over a bed of jasmine or brown rice to create a satisfying main dish.
• Drizzle some additional sauce on top for extra taste.

In Tacos

• Use small tortillas to make salmon tacos; top with shredded cabbage and avocado.
• Add a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.

With Salads

• Toss the salmon into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
• Dress with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.

On Buns

• Create salmon sliders by placing the bites in mini buns with lettuce and sauce.
• This makes for a fun finger food option at gatherings.

As a Grain Bowl

• Combine the salmon with quinoa or farro, topped with veggies and sauce.
• This option is healthy and filling, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

Making the perfect Bang Bang Salmon involves simple techniques that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon delivers better taste and texture compared to frozen options.
• Adjust Spiciness: Modify the amount of sriracha in the sauce to suit your heat preference.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cooking in batches ensures even crispiness and prevents steaming.
• Let It Rest: Allow cooked salmon bites to rest briefly before serving to maintain crispiness.
• Sauce Just Before Serving: Drizzle sauce on right before serving to keep your salmon crispy.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to customize flavors according to your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon

Pairing side dishes with Bang Bang Salmon can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side that balances the rich flavors of the salmon.
2. Coconut Rice: Sweet coconut rice adds a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with spicy salmon.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and texture, cutting through the creaminess of the sauce.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the dish; season simply with salt and pepper.
5. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed grain salad filled with veggies adds color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, serve warm garlic bread as a comforting side option.
7. Mango Salsa: A fresh mango salsa adds sweetness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
8. Zucchini Noodles: Light and healthy, zucchini noodles can be tossed in olive oil and garlic for added flavor without heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Salmon, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring the freshness of salmon: Always use fresh, skinless salmon for the best flavor and texture. Frozen salmon can work, but it may not yield the same results.

• Overcooking the salmon: Keep an eye on cooking times. Salmon should be cooked just until flaky; overcooking can lead to dryness.

• Neglecting sauce adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, adjust the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. Start with less and add more to taste.

• Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking and crispy edges. Don’t skip this step!

• Drizzling sauce too early: To maintain crispiness, only drizzle the sauce right before serving instead of mixing it in beforehand.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container.
• It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon

• Place cooled salmon bites in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary. Cook until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Bang Bang Salmon that you might find helpful.

What is Bang Bang Salmon?

Bang Bang Salmon is a delicious dish featuring crispy salmon bites coated in a creamy, spicy sauce made with Thai sweet chili and sriracha.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best texture.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat in your Bang Bang Salmon, add more sriracha to your sauce or include additional cayenne pepper when seasoning the fish.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon?

This dish pairs well with rice, salads, or even as an appetizer with extra dipping sauce on the side.

Is there a way to customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices, try different sauces, or even add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Salmon is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility makes it suitable for casual dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize the spices and sauces according to your preference—every twist makes it uniquely yours!