wWhy You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules
Flavorful: The Bang Bang sauce adds a unique blend of sweetness and heat that complements the salmon beautifully
Versatile: Can be prepared using various cooking methods like baking, air frying, or pan-searing
Healthy: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein
Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your preference

Ingredients

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

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

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Set aside.
Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, combine salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Cooking Methods:
- Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until cooked through and slightly golden on the edges.
- Pan-Sear: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium–high heat. Add salmon pieces and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning every couple of minutes to brown each side, until golden and just cooked through.
Serve: Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the cooked salmon or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

Protein Alternatives: Substitute salmon with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for different takes on the dish
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha to make the sauce milder or spicier according to your preference
Sauce Base: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the sauce
Additional Flavors: Incorporate minced garlic or ginger into the sauce for added depth

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating:
- Microwave: Place salmon on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warmed through
- Oven: Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Place salmon on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through

FAQs

What is Bang Bang sauce made of?

Bang Bang sauce is a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce typically made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice.

Can I make Bang Bang Salmon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the salmon ahead of time. Cook the salmon just before serving for the best texture.

Is Bang Bang Salmon spicy?

The spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of sriracha in the sauce. Reduce or omit sriracha for a milder flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, ensure the salmon is fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

What sides pair well with Bang Bang Salmon?

Steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement the flavors of Bang Bang Salmon.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, grilling is a great option. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side.

Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative to make the sauce suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What other proteins can I use with Bang Bang sauce?

Bang Bang sauce pairs well with shrimp, chicken, tofu, or even roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful and versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With its quick preparation and customizable spice level, it caters to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying experience.