Name: Bang Bang Salmon Skewers
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 120g / 1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise; 60ml / 1/4 cup sweet chilli sauce; 2 tbsp sriracha; 1 tsp soy sauce; 500g / 1lb boneless skinless salmon, diced into 1-1.5 inch chunks; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp chipotle powder; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Oil spray, as needed; 400g / 14oz cucumber, thinly sliced into small pieces; 1/2 small/medium red onion, finely diced; 3 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp finely diced fresh dill; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 1/2 tsp sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Cooked rice

Why You’ll Love Bang Bang Salmon Skewers Recipe

It’s fast and perfect for busy days, ready in just over 20 minutes.

The bang bang sauce is creamy, spicy, sweet, and completely addictive.

Air fryer cooking makes the salmon tender inside with a lightly crisp exterior.

The fresh cucumber salad adds a bright, cooling contrast.

It’s a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and rice all in one.

Ingredients

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

120g full-fat mayonnaise

60ml sweet chilli sauce

2 tbsp sriracha

1 tsp soy sauce

500g boneless skinless salmon, diced into 1–1.5 inch chunks

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp chipotle powder

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp black pepper

oil spray, as needed

400g cucumber, thinly sliced into small pieces

1/2 small to medium red onion, finely diced

3 tbsp rice vinegar or white wine vinegar

2 tbsp finely diced fresh dill

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 1/2 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

cooked rice, for serving

Directions

In a small mixing bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chilli sauce, sriracha, and soy sauce until smooth and fully combined. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, coat the diced salmon with smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, chipotle powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly covered. Add about 1/4 cup of the bang bang sauce and mix well. Let it marinate while you prepare the salad, or for about 15 minutes.

In another bowl, whisk together the vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add the sliced cucumber, red onion, and fresh dill. Toss everything until evenly coated and set aside.

Thread the salmon pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space at both ends for easy handling.

Place the skewers in the air fryer, lightly spray with oil, and cook at 190°C (375°F) for 6 to 8 minutes. Check at 6 minutes—the salmon should flake easily and be just cooked through. Avoid overcooking.

Remove the skewers and brush with more bang bang sauce to your taste.

Carefully slide the salmon off the skewers and serve over rice with the cucumber salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 7 minutes

Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Use shrimp or chicken instead of salmon for a different protein option.

Bake in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10–12 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.

Add lime juice or zest to the sauce for a citrusy twist.

Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.

Serve in lettuce wraps instead of over rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover salmon, rice, and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat the salmon gently in the microwave or in a pan over low heat to avoid drying it out.

The cucumber salad is best eaten fresh but can be kept for up to 1 day.

Avoid freezing, as the texture of the salmon and salad may change.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Just make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

Do I need to soak wooden skewers?

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Can I make the sauce less spicy?

Yes. Reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a milder chili sauce.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque in the center.

Can I grill these instead of air frying?

Yes. Grill over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.

What can I serve instead of rice?

Quinoa, noodles, or even a fresh salad work well.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the sauce and salad ahead, but cook the salmon fresh for best texture.

Is this recipe healthy?

It’s a balanced meal, though you can lighten it by reducing mayo or using yogurt.

Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Yes. Bell peppers, zucchini, or onions are great additions.

What type of cucumber works best?

English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal because they are less watery and have fewer seeds.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon Skewers are a quick, flavorful meal that brings together spicy, creamy, and fresh elements in every bite. With tender salmon, a vibrant cucumber salad, and a rich sauce, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.