This Bang Bang Salmon is an irresistible dish that brings together the crunch of seasoned salmon bites and a bold, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or as an appetizer for gatherings, this recipe stands out with its quick preparation and vibrant flavors. The combination of Thai sweet chili, sriracha, lime, and honey creates a unique taste that delights everyone at the table.
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
- For Garnish
- 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 a Main Course
- In Tacos
- On Salad
- As Appetizers
- With Noodles
- How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon
- Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Bang Bang Salmon
- Reheating Bang Bang Salmon
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Bang Bang Salmon?
- How do I make my Bang Bang Sauce spicier?
- Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
- What sides pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 27 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
- Flavor Packed: The bold Bang Bang sauce adds a delightful kick that pairs perfectly with crispy salmon.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering.
- Healthier Choice: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil while keeping the salmon crispy and delicious.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness of the sauce to suit your taste by modifying the sriracha.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Bang Bang Salmon, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: Allows you to achieve crispy salmon without deep frying, making it a healthier option.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while ensuring even seasoning.
- Whisk: Great for mixing sauces smoothly, which is crucial for the texture of your Bang Bang sauce.
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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon
Step 1: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Thai sweet chili sauce
3. Sriracha
4. Honey
5. Lime juice
Continue whisking until smooth and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a large bowl, toss together:
1. Salmon pieces
2. Olive oil
3. Garlic powder
4. Onion powder
5. Smoked paprika
6. Salt
7. Black pepper
8. Cayenne (if using)
Ensure all pieces are well coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
1. Place salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket; work in batches if necessary.
2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking until crispy on edges.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer cooked salmon bites to a serving platter and drizzle with your prepared Bang Bang sauce. Serve any extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy this flavorful dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also impresses your guests!
How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon
Bang Bang Salmon is versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Whether you want a casual dinner or an elegant presentation, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
As a Main Course
- Serve the crispy salmon bites on a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
- Pair with steamed vegetables to add nutrition and color to your plate.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to wrap the salmon bites with shredded cabbage and drizzle extra Bang Bang sauce for a fun twist.
- Add avocado slices for creaminess and fresh cilantro for added flavor.
On Salad
- Toss the salmon bites over mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a refreshing salad.
- Complement it with a light vinaigrette or extra Bang Bang sauce as dressing.
As Appetizers
- Arrange the salmon bites on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties.
- Serve alongside dipping sauces like soy sauce or additional Bang Bang sauce.
With Noodles
- Mix the salmon bites with stir-fried noodles and vegetables for a hearty dish.
- Drizzle some of the Bang Bang sauce over the top for extra flavor.
How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon
To achieve perfect Bang Bang Salmon, follow these essential tips that will elevate your dish every time you make it.
- Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon fillets ensure better texture and flavor. Look for bright, firm pieces without any fishy smell.
- Preheat your air fryer: Always preheat the air fryer before cooking. This helps in achieving that crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy bits instead of crispy salmon.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to modify the spices based on your preferences. If you love heat, increase the cayenne pepper or sriracha.
- Serve immediately: For optimal crispiness, serve your salmon right after cooking. Drizzle the sauce just before serving to maintain texture.
- Experiment with sides: Pairing with different sides can enhance your dining experience. Try various salads, grains, or even Asian-inspired dishes.
Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon
Complement your Bang Bang Salmon with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the flavors of this delicious main course while adding variety to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds crunch and color.
- Coconut Rice: This sweet and creamy rice balances perfectly with spicy flavors.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds freshness.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside bold flavors.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with salmon.
- Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with veggies and lemon dressing complements the dish nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Bang Bang Salmon, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Using skin-on salmon: Skin can make the bites less crispy. Always use skinless salmon for the best results.
- Overcooking the salmon: Cooking too long can dry out the fish. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness around 8 minutes.
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season well leads to bland bites. Ensure every piece is coated evenly with spices.
- Making sauce in advance: Preparing the sauce too early can affect its freshness. Mix it just before serving for optimal taste.
- Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for at least 3 minutes.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Bang Bang Salmon
- Freeze cooked salmon bites in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They will maintain quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating Bang Bang Salmon
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently to prevent drying out.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally to heat evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bang Bang Salmon?
Bang Bang Salmon is a dish featuring crispy salmon bites tossed in a creamy, spicy sauce made with Thai sweet chili, sriracha, lime, and honey.
How do I make my Bang Bang Sauce spicier?
To increase spiciness, add more sriracha sauce or include crushed red pepper flakes in your sauce mix.
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon as long as it is fully thawed before cooking for even seasoning and cooking.
What sides pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?
Serve it with jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad to complement its flavors perfectly.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salmon bites and sauce ahead of time and store them separately until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Salmon is not only quick and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize the spice level or try different dipping sauces. Whether as a main course or an appetizer, this dish is sure to impress!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Bang Bang Salmon
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Bang Bang Salmon, where crispy seasoned salmon bites meet a bold, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as an eye-catching appetizer at gatherings. With a quick preparation time of just 27 minutes, you can enjoy the delightful combination of Thai sweet chili, sriracha, lime, and honey that will leave everyone asking for seconds. The air fryer method ensures a healthier option without compromising on taste, making it an ideal choice for those who love easy yet impressive seafood dishes.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds skinless salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice to make the Bang Bang sauce; set aside.
- In a large bowl, toss salmon pieces with olive oil and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne).
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Arrange salmon in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes until crispy on edges.
- Serve the cooked salmon bites drizzled with Bang Bang sauce and additional sauce on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6 oz (170g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
