If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful seafood dish, these Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a must-try! They feature tender, perfectly seasoned salmon pieces with a crispy exterior, coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, party appetizer, or meal prep, this dish is easy to make and bursting with bold flavors.
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 (freshly squeezed)
Optional Garnish:
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Green onions, sliced
• Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps create a crispy texture when cooking.
2. Remove any skin and cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.
3. In a large bowl, drizzle the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly with the seasoning.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust as needed—add more sriracha for extra heat or honey for additional sweetness.
3. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
1. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the salmon pieces in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Sear the salmon for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The salmon should be cooked through but still tender inside.
4. Remove the salmon from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Coat the Salmon with Bang Bang Sauce
1. Place the crispy salmon bites in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon and gently toss to coat evenly.
3. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
1. Transfer the coated salmon bites to a serving plate.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
• Air Fryer Option: For an even crispier texture, air fry the seasoned salmon bites at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• Baking Option: Bake the salmon at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway.
• Make it Spicier: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for more heat.
• Gluten-Free Version: Ensure the Thai sweet chili sauce is gluten-free, or use a homemade alternative.
• Protein Swaps: Try this recipe with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different take.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
• Place leftover salmon bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Store the Bang Bang sauce separately to keep the salmon crispy.
Reheating:
• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Skillet: Reheat over medium heat with a light drizzle of oil.
• Microwave: Use short bursts, but note that the salmon will lose its crispiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes! If using frozen salmon, thaw it completely, pat it dry, and proceed with the recipe.
2. What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
These go great with steamed rice, roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even inside tacos for a fun twist!
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store the Bang Bang sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
4. How do I prevent the salmon from falling apart while cooking?
Make sure the salmon is dry before seasoning and avoid excessive stirring while cooking. Use a non-stick pan for best results.
5. Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Yes! Swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free or vegan mayo alternative.
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are packed with flavor and easy to make. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Try them out and enjoy!