Bang Bang Salmon

This Bang Bang Salmon dish is a delightful combination of crispy salmon bites and a rich, spicy sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or as an exciting appetizer for gatherings. The easy air fryer method ensures quick preparation, while the bold flavors keep everyone coming back for more.

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
• 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
• On a Bed of Greens
• As Appetizers
• With Rice or Quinoa
• 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 spicy is Bang Bang Salmon?
• How do I serve Bang Bang Salmon?
• Can I customize the sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 27 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili, sriracha, and lime creates a uniquely bold flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these salmon bites as a main course or an appetizer at your next party.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Easy Clean-Up: Cooking in an air fryer means less mess compared to traditional frying methods.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Bang Bang Salmon, you will need some essential tools. These will help ensure your cooking process is smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Offers a healthier way to achieve crispy salmon without excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly, ensuring the salmon is well-seasoned.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the sauce until it’s creamy and smooth.

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

PIN THIS!

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a large bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until well coated.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes. Place salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches if necessary. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time until the salmon is cooked through with crispy edges.

Step 4: Serve

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

Enjoy this tasty Bang Bang Salmon recipe at your next gathering or as part of your weeknight meals!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Serving Bang Bang Salmon can elevate your dining experience, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a weeknight meal. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Place the salmon bites on a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Spinach and Avocado: Combine fresh spinach with sliced avocado to create a creamy base that complements the salmon’s flavor.

As Appetizers

• Skewers: Thread salmon bites onto skewers for easy handling. Serve with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
• Mini Tacos: Use small taco shells or lettuce wraps, filling them with salmon and toppings like cabbage and cilantro.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Coconut Rice: Pair the salmon with fragrant coconut rice for a tropical twist.
• Quinoa Bowl: Serve the salmon over quinoa topped with fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

Achieving the ideal Bang Bang Salmon is simple with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions for best results.

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t skimp on seasoning the salmon well; it enhances the flavors before adding the sauce.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Ensuring your air fryer is preheated allows for even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
• Cook in Batches: If you have a lot of salmon, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of sriracha based on your heat preference, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.
• Serve Immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the salmon right after cooking. Drizzle with sauce just before serving.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon

Pairing sides with your Bang Bang Salmon can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and crunch to your plate.
2. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes complement the richness of the salmon beautifully.
3. Asian Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw provides freshness and crunch, balancing the creamy sauce.
4. Cauliflower Rice: Light and low-carb, this is an excellent base that absorbs flavors well.
5. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa adds brightness and pairs wonderfully with spicy flavors.
6. Sautéed Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears bring an elegant touch to your meal while being quick to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Bang Bang Salmon can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Salmon Cut: Using thick salmon fillets can lead to uneven cooking. Always cut your salmon into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and crispiness.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning the salmon adequately can result in bland bites. Ensure you coat the salmon well with spices before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Placing too many pieces in the air fryer at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
• Ignoring Sauce Adjustments: Not adjusting the spice level of the sauce can make or break your dish. Taste and modify your Bang Bang sauce to suit your preference.
• Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Skipping preheating can lead to longer cook times and soggy salmon. Always preheat your air fryer for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon

• Freeze cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers for best results.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salmon on a baking tray and heat for about 10 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently. This method may not keep them crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a drop of oil if needed. This helps restore some crispiness while warming them through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Salmon?

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

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first. Frozen salmon may not have the same texture as fresh, but it will still work well when prepared properly.

How spicy is Bang Bang Salmon?

The spiciness largely depends on how much sriracha you add to the sauce. You can adjust it according to your taste preferences.

How do I serve Bang Bang Salmon?

You can serve it as an appetizer or as a main dish over rice or salad. Drizzling extra sauce on top enhances its flavors!

Can I customize the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like garlic or ginger for more flavor, or adjust honey for sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is quick, flavorful, and versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, it allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try different sauces or seasoning combinations!