Bang Bang Salmon

Name: Bang Bang Salmon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 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); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Published: May 8, 2025

by Sofia

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This Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful and zesty dish that is sure to please everyone at your table. With crispy, seasoned salmon bites coated in a bold and creamy sauce, this recipe combines the sweetness of Thai chili with the kick of sriracha. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as an appetizer for gatherings, this meal is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up this Bang Bang Salmon in just under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Bold Flavors: The combination of Thai sweet chili sauce, lime, and sriracha creates a deliciously tangy and spicy sauce that enhances the salmon perfectly.
Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or as tasty appetizers for a party, these salmon bites are sure to impress your guests.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and healthy fats, salmon is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Air Fryer Convenience: Cooking in an air fryer means less oil and mess while still achieving that crispy texture.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Bang Bang Salmon, you’ll need to gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Measuring spoons
Serving platter

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This tool gives you crispy salmon bites without deep frying, making it healthier.
Mixing bowls: Useful for tossing ingredients together without any spills.
Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency for 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

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Thai sweet chili sauce
3. Sriracha sauce (adjust based on your spice preference)
4. Honey
5. Lime juice

Set the sauce aside while you prepare the salmon.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a large bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil and seasonings:
1. Garlic powder
2. Onion powder
3. Smoked paprika
4. Salt
5. Black pepper
6. Cayenne (if using)

Make sure all pieces are well-coated.

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.
2. Cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
3. The salmon should be cooked through with crispy edges when done.

Step 4: Serve

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

Enjoy your deliciously spicy and flavorful Bang Bang Salmon!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As an Appetizer

Serve the salmon bites on small skewers for easy handling. This makes them perfect for parties or gatherings.

With Rice

Pair the salmon with jasmine or basmati rice. The mild flavors of the rice complement the bold sauce perfectly.

In a Salad

Create a vibrant salad by adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Top it with Bang Bang Salmon for a delightful twist.

In Tacos

Use soft tortillas and fill them with salmon bites, avocado, and a drizzle of extra Bang Bang sauce for a fun taco night.

With Noodles

Toss the salmon with rice noodles and your favorite veggies. Add some extra sauce for flavor, making it a complete meal.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Bang Bang Salmon, follow these simple tips.

Choose Fresh Salmon: Using fresh salmon will ensure that your bites are tender and flavorful.
Cut Uniform Pieces: For even cooking, cut the salmon into uniform bite-sized pieces.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to get that perfect crispy texture on the outside.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy salmon.
Adjust Spiciness: Modify the amount of sriracha in your sauce to suit your heat preference.
Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your Bang Bang Salmon right after cooking to keep it crispy.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Salmon can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the sauce.
Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice dish brings tropical flavors that complement the spicy notes of the salmon.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and texture, making it an ideal side.
Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers a healthy grain alternative that pairs well with salmon.
Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned roasted asparagus adds a savory element that enhances the overall dish.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, creating a delightful contrast with the salmon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Bang Bang Salmon, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your salmon can lead to bland bites. Make sure to coat the salmon well with spices for maximum flavor.
Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many pieces in the air fryer at once can result in uneven cooking. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can affect cook time and texture. Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
Using low-quality ingredients: Poor-quality salmon or sauce can ruin the dish. Use fresh, skinless salmon and quality sauces for a better taste.
Ignoring cook times: Cooking salmon too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and check for doneness after 8 minutes.

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon

Place cooled salmon bites in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Use medium power, heating in short bursts of 30 seconds until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally for even warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bang Bang Salmon?

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

Can I make Bang Bang Salmon without an air fryer?

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

How do I spice up my Bang Bang Salmon?

Adjust the level of sriracha based on your preference or add extra cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.

What side dishes pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?

Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Salmon is an incredibly versatile dish that brings bold flavors to your table. You can easily customize it by adjusting spices or trying different dipping sauces. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and enjoy its deliciousness!