Bang Bang Salmon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bang Bang Salmon offers a flavorful, crispy bite that’s perfectly paired with a tangy and spicy sauce. With tender salmon pieces seasoned and air-fried to perfection, this dish combines rich, smoky flavors with a kick from the Bang Bang sauce. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, the combination of crispy salmon and creamy sauce is sure to wow your taste buds. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it a great option for busy days.

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 with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Toss to coat the salmon evenly 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, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.

5. Transfer the cooked salmon 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 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 12 minutes

• Total Time: 27 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the salmon back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes to regain its crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

2. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it before preparing the recipe for best results.

3. How do I make the sauce spicier?

If you like more heat, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

4. Can I use another fish besides salmon?

You can substitute salmon with other fish like trout or cod. Make sure the pieces are similarly sized to ensure even cooking.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you ensure the Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha are gluten-free. Check the labels if you’re sensitive to gluten.

6. How do I make the sauce creamier?

For a creamier version, add a little extra mayonnaise or mix in a small amount of Greek yogurt to balance the texture.

7. Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like avocado oil or vegetable oil in place of olive oil, depending on your preference.

8. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use fresh minced garlic. Start with one clove and adjust to your taste.

9. How can I make the salmon extra crispy?

To get an extra crispy texture, make sure the salmon pieces are well-coated with the oil and seasoning and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

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

Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors, all wrapped up in crispy, tender salmon bites. With an easy prep time and air fryer cooking method, it’s a fast and flavorful dish that will leave you craving more. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, this dish is sure to impress anyone who loves bold flavors with a kick.