Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this Bang Bang Salmon is a must-try! With crispy salmon bites paired with a bold and tangy sauce made from Thai sweet chili, sriracha, and lime juice, this dish offers the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The crispy edges of the salmon combined with the creamy, spicy sauce make each bite irresistible. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with the use of an air fryer, it’s both quick and healthier than deep-frying!

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

• 1 ½ 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

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

2. In a large bowl, combine the salmon bites, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss until the salmon is evenly coated with the seasonings.

3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

4. Place the seasoned salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.

5. Air fry the salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.

6. Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter and drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce. Serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 12 minutes

• Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

• For a different protein: Try using chicken or shrimp instead of salmon for a similar crispy texture and flavor.

• For a lighter sauce: You can substitute the mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce with Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie option.

• Add veggies: Consider adding some thinly sliced bell peppers or onions to the air fryer along with the salmon for added flavor and crunch.

• Make it gluten-free: Ensure that the Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha are gluten-free if you need the dish to be gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing leftovers: Store any leftover cooked salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. How can I make Bang Bang Salmon spicier?

To increase the heat, add more sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce or sprinkle extra cayenne pepper on the salmon bites before air frying.

2. Can I bake the salmon instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy around the edges.

3. What type of salmon should I use for this recipe?

Use fresh, skinless salmon fillets for the best results. Avoid using frozen salmon as it may affect the texture.

4. Can I use a different oil for the salmon?

Olive oil is great for this recipe, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or any neutral oil of your choice.

5. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. You can also check the internal temperature with a thermometer; it should be 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.

6. Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

7. How can I serve Bang Bang Salmon?

Serve the salmon bites over a bed of rice, on a salad, or with a side of roasted vegetables. They’re also great on their own as a finger food or appetizer.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, but ensure the sriracha and Thai sweet chili sauce are gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten.

9. Can I make the sauce without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version of the sauce.

10. How can I make the dish less spicy?

Reduce or eliminate the sriracha and cayenne pepper to make the recipe milder. You can also adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce to balance out the flavors.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful and quick dish that combines crispy salmon bites with a bold, creamy, and spicy sauce. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something to impress guests, this recipe delivers on taste and texture. It’s easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious—perfect for anyone who loves a little heat and a lot of flavor in their meals!