Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bang Bang Salmon is the ultimate seafood dish for anyone who loves bold flavors! The air-fried salmon bites are perfectly crispy on the outside while staying tender on the inside. Paired with a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce, this dish is a flavor explosion. Whether you serve it as a quick dinner or a fun appetizer, it's sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds salmon fillets, 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 the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (Japanese mayo recommended)

• ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce

• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce

• 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. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.

2. Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, combine the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly.

3. Air Fry the Salmon: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

4. Serve: Transfer the crispy salmon to a serving platter. Drizzle with the prepared Bang Bang sauce and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Total Time: 20 minutes (prep and cooking time)

Variations

• For extra crunch: Add breadcrumbs to the salmon before air frying for a crispy, breaded texture.

• Different protein: Swap salmon for other fish like cod or tilapia, or even chicken for a different twist.

• Spice level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the salmon in the air fryer or oven to retain the crispy texture. Microwave reheating may soften the coating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon thoroughly before cutting it into pieces and seasoning.

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.

Is the Bang Bang sauce spicy?

Yes, the sauce has a spicy kick from the sriracha, but you can adjust the heat level by reducing or omitting the sriracha.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise for something else?

Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter option.

Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Can I make this dish without an air fryer?

Yes, you can pan-fry or bake the salmon bites in the oven if you don't have an air fryer.

What’s a good side dish to serve with this recipe?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, you can use other types of firm fish, like cod or tilapia, for this recipe.

How do I keep the salmon crispy?

Serve immediately after air frying and drizzle with sauce just before serving to maintain the crispy texture.

Conclusion

This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that's perfect for any occasion. With crispy salmon bites and a mouthwatering sweet and spicy sauce, it’s sure to impress your family or guests. Give it a try, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors!

Print