Bang Bang Salmon

Description:
Bang Bang Salmon is a delicious, crispy salmon recipe coated in a creamy, sweet, spicy, and slightly tangy bang bang sauce. The salmon is lightly seasoned, cooked until golden on the outside and tender inside, then generously drizzled or tossed with the flavorful sauce. It makes a quick, protein-rich dinner that pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, noodles, or a fresh salad.

Servings

4 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 1½ lb (680 g) salmon fillets, skin removed
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ cup cornstarch
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
• 1–2 tbsp Sriracha or hot sauce, to taste
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes

• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the salmon:
   Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and cut it into bite-sized cubes or chunks.
2. Season:
   Place the salmon in a bowl and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss well.
3. Coat:
   Sprinkle the cornstarch over the salmon and gently toss until each piece is lightly coated.
4. Make the sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness as desired.
5. Cook the salmon:
   Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon pieces in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
6. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, turning gently, until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
7. Add the sauce:
   Remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the salmon and gently toss to coat. Alternatively, serve the sauce on top so the salmon stays extra crispy.
8. Garnish and serve:
   Sprinkle with sesame seeds, green onions, parsley, or cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges.

Recipe Notes

• For crispy salmon: Make sure the salmon is thoroughly patted dry before coating it.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Too many pieces at once can cause the salmon to steam instead of becoming crispy.
• Control the heat: Add more or less Sriracha depending on your preferred spice level.
• Sauce consistency: Add a teaspoon of lime juice or water if the sauce is too thick.
• Extra crispy option: Cook the salmon in an air fryer at approximately 400°F (200°C) until golden and cooked through, turning halfway.
• For the best texture, add the sauce just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Salmon is excellent with:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Coconut rice
• Fried rice
• Stir-fried vegetables
• Roasted broccoli
• Asian-style cucumber salad
• Noodles
• Lettuce cups
• Avocado
• Fresh mango salsa

Nutritional Information

Approximate per serving (including sauce; values vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes):

Benefits

• High in protein: Salmon provides quality protein that supports muscle maintenance and overall body function.
• Rich in omega-3 fats: Salmon is a good source of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids.
• Contains vitamin B12: Important for normal red blood cell formation and nervous-system function.
• Provides selenium: Salmon contributes selenium, an essential mineral involved in antioxidant defenses and thyroid function.
• Balanced meal potential: Pairing the salmon with vegetables and whole grains can provide protein, healthy fats, fiber, and micronutrients in one meal.

The health benefits depend on the overall diet, portion size, and preparation method.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it very dry before seasoning and coating.

Q: Can I make Bang Bang Salmon without mayonnaise?
Yes. Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, tangier sauce, although the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

Q: Is Bang Bang Salmon spicy?
It can be. The Sriracha controls most of the heat, so reduce it for a mild version or increase it for a spicier dish.

Q: Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-frying it?
Yes. Arrange the coated salmon on a lightly greased baking sheet and bake at about 425°F (220°C) until cooked through and lightly browned.

Q: Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air frying works particularly well for bite-sized salmon because it helps create a crisp exterior with less oil.

Q: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container for up to about 3 days and stir before serving.

Q: How do I know when salmon is done?
The salmon should be opaque and flake easily. For food-safety purposes, the FDA recommends cooking fish to 145°F (63°C) internally.

Q: What makes it “Bang Bang” salmon?
The name comes from the signature creamy, sweet, tangy, and spicy sauce traditionally associated with bang bang-style dishes.