Bang Bang Salmon

This Bang Bang Salmon is the perfect blend of crispy, seasoned salmon bites and a rich, creamy sauce that packs a punch. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving up appetizers for your next gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of Thai sweet chili, sriracha, lime, and honey elevates the salmon to new heights, making it not just a meal but an experience.

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
• 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 an Entrée
• As Appetizers
• In Tacos
• With Noodles
• 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 customize the Bang Bang sauce?
• Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
• What other sides pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 27 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The bold Bang Bang sauce combines sweet and spicy notes for an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as an appetizer at parties.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious choice for your dinners.
• Crispy Perfection: The air fryer ensures perfectly crispy salmon bites without excess oil.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air Fryer: This tool cooks the salmon evenly while achieving that desirable crispiness without deep frying.
• Mixing Bowls: Having several bowls on hand helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Whisk: A simple yet effective tool for combining the sauce ingredients smoothly.

Ingredients

This Bang Bang Salmon recipe features fresh ingredients that create a delightful flavor profile.

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:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Thai sweet chili sauce
3. Sriracha sauce (adjust according to your spice preference)
4. Honey
5. Lime juice

Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a large bowl:
1. Add salmon pieces.
2. Drizzle with olive oil.
3. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
4. Toss everything until the salmon is well coated with the seasoning.

Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Place seasoned salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
3. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking until salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Serve

Transfer cooked salmon bites onto a serving platter. Drizzle generously with your prepared Bang Bang sauce and offer any extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delectable Bang Bang Salmon, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re aiming for a casual meal or an elegant presentation, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As an Entrée

• Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a hearty main course.
• Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the salmon.

As Appetizers

• Skewer the salmon bites on toothpicks for easy eating during parties.
• Serve with extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping.

In Tacos

• Fill soft tortillas with salmon bites, shredded cabbage, and avocado for a delicious twist.
• Drizzle more sauce on top for added flavor.

With Noodles

• Toss salmon bites with cooked noodles and vegetables, then drizzle with the sauce for a complete meal.
• Use rice noodles for a gluten-free option.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

To make the most out of your Bang Bang Salmon, follow these simple tips that will elevate your dish to perfection.

• Use Fresh Salmon: Fresh salmon gives the best texture and flavor. Avoid frozen if possible.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Control the heat by modifying the amount of sriracha in your sauce to suit your taste.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Ensure your air fryer is properly preheated for even cooking and crispy results.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook salmon bites in batches if necessary to ensure they crisp up nicely.
• Serve Immediately: For maximum crispiness, serve the salmon right after cooking and drizzle sauce just before serving.
• Garnish Thoughtfully: Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Salmon can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice complements the spicy salmon beautifully.
2. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and texture, balancing the rich sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies provide nutrition and color on your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: Light quinoa salad offers a healthy grain option that pairs well with the dish.
5. Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed garlic green beans add a savory touch that complements the salmon’s flavors.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup makes for a comforting addition to any meal featuring salmon.

Enjoy crafting your perfect plate!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results when making Bang Bang Salmon, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: If you don’t season the salmon bites properly, they may lack flavor. Always ensure each piece is evenly coated with spices.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many salmon pieces in the basket can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches for crispy results.
• Ignoring sauce timing: Drizzling sauce on the salmon before serving can make it soggy. Wait until just before serving to keep it crispy.
• Using skin-on salmon: Cooking with skin can result in a less pleasant texture. Opt for skinless fillets for this recipe.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, be cautious with sriracha. Start with a smaller amount and increase according to your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the Bang Bang sauce separately to maintain salmon crispiness.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon

• Freeze cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 8-10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely; heat on medium power in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil; cook for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making Bang Bang Salmon.

What is Bang Bang Salmon?

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

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before preparing the dish for even cooking.

How can I customize the Bang Bang sauce?

You can adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of sriracha or adding ingredients like lime zest or garlic for extra flavor.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the sauce or reduce the amount of honey for fewer calories while retaining flavor.

What other sides pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?

Serve it alongside rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad to complement the flavors of the dish.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Salmon is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or sauces based on your preferences. This dish makes an excellent choice for busy weeknights or entertaining guests—give it a try!