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Hello, fellow seafood lovers and busy home cooks! As your resident recipe maven, I’m excited to share a tasty twist on the classic Bang Bang Shrimp that’s perfect for salmon fans and anyone looking for a quick weeknight dinner winner. Say hello to my simple 20-minute Bang Bang Salmon recipe!
This spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet dish is a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Whether you serve it as bite-sized appetizers, over a bed of rice in a satisfying bowl, or give it a crispy finish in the air fryer, Bang Bang Salmon is a versatile crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
As usual, my dear readers, I’ve included a handy “Jump to Recipe” button and a “Table of Contents” to make navigation a breeze. So feel free to skip right to the recipe card if you’re in a rush, or take a leisurely scroll through the article for more tips, tricks, and tasty variations on this delicious dish.
Get ready to whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen with this easy Bang Bang Salmon recipe. Your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you!
Table of Contents
What Is Bang Bang Salmon?
Imagine a sauce so irresistible that it can transform any dish into a flavor fiesta. That’s exactly what Bang Bang sauce does! This spicy, creamy, and subtly sweet condiment originally gained popularity as a coating for crispy shrimp, but it’s since become a versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with a variety of proteins, including our star ingredient: salmon.
Fun fact: The name “Bang Bang” comes from the Sichuan term “bàng bàng,” which refers to the pounding sound made when a chef uses the flat side of a cleaver to tenderize meat. While we won’t be pounding our salmon, we’ll certainly be infusing it with an explosive flavor that’ll make your taste buds sing!
So, why does salmon work so well with Bang Bang sauce?
It’s all about the balance of flavors. Salmon’s rich, buttery texture and mild taste provide the perfect canvas for the bold, spicy notes of the sauce. The creaminess of the mayonnaise-based sauce also helps to mellow out the heat, while the touch of sweetness from the chili sauce and honey complements the natural sweetness of the fish.
Whether you’re serving up bite-sized Bang Bang Salmon morsels as a party appetizer or crafting a satisfying Bang Bang Salmon Bowl for a quick weeknight dinner, this magical combination of flavors is sure to be a hit.
The sauce clings beautifully to the flaky, tender salmon, creating a delightful contrast of textures and tastes in every mouthful.
As a home cook, I love experimenting with different proteins and sauces, and let me tell you, Bang Bang Salmon has quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect way to jazz up your seafood game without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover the magic of Bang Bang Salmon together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to weeknight dinners, we all want something that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Well, my fellow home cooks, this Bang Bang Salmon recipe checks all those boxes and more!
First and foremost, let’s talk about the speed factor.
From start to finish, you can have this delectable dish on the table in just 20 minutes. That’s right, in less time than it takes to watch an episode of your favorite sitcom, you can be digging into a restaurant-quality meal that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.
But wait, there’s more!
Despite its impressive flavor profile, this recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. No need to embark on a culinary scavenger hunt or break the bank on fancy ingredients. With just a few staples like salmon, mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen.
Tip: For the best results, use fresh, high-quality salmon fillets. If frozen is your only option, be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure a crispy exterior and tender, flaky interior.
Now, let’s talk versatility.
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is the culinary equivalent of a chameleon. Serve it up as bite-sized appetizers at your next party, create a satisfying bowl with rice and veggies for a quick lunch, or even transform it into tacos or a salad for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless!
As a mom and a home cook, I know how important it is to have recipes that appeal to the whole family.
The good news?
This Bang Bang Salmon is a certified crowd-pleaser. The creamy, slightly spicy sauce is mild enough for kids but flavorful enough to keep the adults coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce picky eaters to new flavors and textures.
Fact: Studies show that exposing children to a variety of flavors and cuisines early on can help expand their palates and encourage more adventurous eating habits later in life.
Oh, and did I mention that this recipe is perfect for meal prep? Make a big batch on Sunday, and you’ll have tasty, protein-packed lunches or dinners ready to go for the week ahead. Simply store the cooked salmon and sauce separately, and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
While I’m using an air fryer for this recipe (because who doesn’t love that crispy, crunchy texture?), you can easily adapt it for the oven or a stovetop pan.
No matter how you cook it, this Bang Bang Salmon is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have you wondering why you didn’t try this recipe sooner!
Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tender, flaky salmon fillets get a crispy, spicy makeover with this easy Bang Bang Salmon recipe. The perfect balance of heat and sweet, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes using your trusty air fryer. Serve it up as bite-sized appetizers, in a satisfying bowl, or even as tacos for a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 (6-oz) salmon fillets, skin-on or skinless
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tbsp sriracha, to taste
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and cut into bite-sized pieces, if desired.
- In a shallow dish, mix together the salt, pepper, and cornstarch.
- Lightly brush the salmon pieces with olive oil, then dredge them in the cornstarch mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Place the coated salmon pieces in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- While the salmon cooks, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
- Once the salmon is done, transfer it to a large bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over top. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, spicy Bang Bang Salmon!
Notes
- For extra crunch, you can coat the salmon pieces in panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha to the sauce.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise in the sauce.
- Leftover Bang Bang Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the salmon back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, until warmed through and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making crispy, flavorful Bang Bang Salmon, it’s time to explore the myriad ways you can serve up this delectable dish.
As a home cook, I love finding creative ways to repurpose leftovers or create entirely new meals using the same base ingredients. It’s like a culinary adventure that keeps mealtime exciting!
Let’s start with the ever-popular Bang Bang Salmon Bowl.
Picture this: a bed of fluffy, fragrant rice topped with crispy, saucy salmon, creamy avocado slices, cool cucumber ribbons, and crunchy shredded cabbage. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies and create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some additional Bang Bang sauce over the top of your bowl before digging in. It’s like adding a little extra “bang” to every bite!
Next up, let’s talk tacos.
Who doesn’t love a good taco night?
Simply warm up some small tortillas, fill them with your crispy Bang Bang Salmon, and top with a tangy slaw and an extra drizzle of that magical sauce. It’s a fun, handheld way to enjoy this dish that’s perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Fact: Tacos have been around for centuries, with the first recorded mention dating back to the 16th century in Mexico. Talk about a time-honored tradition!
For a lighter option, try transforming your Bang Bang Salmon into a salad.
Start with a bed of mixed greens, add your crispy salmon pieces, and toss with a light sesame dressing. The combination of the spicy salmon, cool greens, and nutty sesame flavor is like a party in your mouth.
It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Bang Bang Salmon while keeping things fresh and healthy.
Anecdote: I once served this salad at a summer barbecue, and it was the first dish to disappear! Everyone kept coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe. It’s always a good sign when your guests are clamoring for more!
Finally, let’s not forget about the power of the humble appetizer.
Serve up your Bang Bang Salmon as bite-sized morsels with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing party snack. It’s a great way to introduce your guests to this delicious flavor combination without committing to a full meal. Plus, it’s easy to make a big batch ahead of time and keep them warm in the oven until your guests arrive.
The beauty of this Bang Bang Salmon recipe is its versatility.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty bowl, a handheld taco, a fresh salad, or a tasty appetizer, this dish can do it all. So go ahead and get creative in the kitchen – your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!
Read also:
– Chimichurri Salmon Recipe
– Smoked Salmon Recipe
– Teriyaki Salmon Bowl Recipe
Health Benefits of Air Fried Salmon
When it comes to healthy eating, salmon is often hailed as a superfood – and for good reason!
This delectable fish is packed with nutrients that can help support your overall health and well-being. But what happens when you combine the goodness of salmon with the convenience and crispy texture of air frying? You get a match made in culinary heaven!
First up, let’s talk about those all-important Omega-3 fatty acids.
Salmon is one of the best sources of these heart-healthy fats, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.
By air frying your salmon, you can enjoy all the benefits of Omega-3s without the added oil or grease that comes with traditional frying methods.
Fun fact: Did you know that the American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fatty fish, like salmon, per week? With this easy air fryer recipe, hitting that target has never been more delicious!
But the health benefits don’t stop there. Salmon is also an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles, keeping you feeling full and satisfied, and supporting healthy bones and skin.
Air frying helps lock in the protein while creating a crispy, crunchy exterior that will make your taste buds sing.
Tip: For an extra protein boost, try serving your air fried salmon over a bed of quinoa or paired with a side of roasted chickpeas. Your muscles (and your taste buds) will thank you!
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, salmon is like a treasure trove of nutrition. It’s loaded with Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and immune function, as well as Vitamin B12, which supports healthy blood cells and brain function.
Plus, salmon is a great source of selenium, a mineral that acts as an antioxidant and helps protect your cells from damage.
Personal anecdote: As someone who has struggled with Vitamin D deficiency in the past, I make it a point to incorporate salmon into my diet regularly. Air frying has become my go-to method because it’s quick, easy, and doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
Finally, let’s talk about the low-carb and keto-friendly nature of air fried salmon.
If you’re watching your carb intake or following a ketogenic diet, this recipe is a perfect fit. The crispy, flavorful salmon takes center stage, without the need for breadcrumbs or other high-carb coatings.
Pair it with some low-carb veggies, and you’ve got a satisfying meal that won’t derail your dietary goals.
References:
– WebMD
– Healthline
At the end of the day, cooking salmon in an air fryer is a simple, delicious way to enjoy all the health benefits of this amazing fish.
It’s a great option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. So go ahead and give it a try – your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Final Thoughts
Well, my fellow seafood lovers and culinary adventurers, we’ve reached the end of our Bang Bang Salmon journey – but the delicious possibilities are truly endless!
Let’s take a moment to reflect on what makes this dish such a standout in the kitchen.
First and foremost, Bang Bang Salmon is the epitome of a quick, flavorful, and versatile meal.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple schedules, or simply someone who loves a good, satisfying dinner, this recipe has your back.
In just 20 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table, bursting with bold flavors and textures that will make your taste buds sing.
But the beauty of Bang Bang Salmon goes beyond its speediness. This dish is like a culinary chameleon, adapting to your preferred cooking method and serving style with ease. While we’ve focused on the crispy, crunchy magic of air frying in this recipe, you can just as easily bake your salmon in the oven or give it a quick sear in a hot pan. The Bang Bang sauce will work its magic no matter what!
Anecdote: I remember the first time I served this dish at a dinner party. I prepared it three ways – air fried, baked, and pan-seared – to cater to my guests’ diverse tastes. The verdict? They loved them all! It was a testament to the recipe’s versatility and crowd-pleasing nature.
And speaking of serving styles, let your creativity run wild!
As we’ve explored, Bang Bang Salmon can take center stage in a hearty rice bowl, be tucked into tacos for a handheld treat, or even be served up as bite-sized appetizers for your next cocktail party. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination (and your appetite)!
Tip: Don’t be afraid to customize the recipe to your liking. Add some extra veggies to your rice bowl, switch up the taco toppings, or even experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu. The Bang Bang sauce is a flavor powerhouse that can elevate just about anything.
At the end of the day, cooking should be a joyful experience – one that brings people together, nourishes our bodies, and satisfies our cravings for something delicious. With this Bang Bang Salmon recipe in your culinary toolkit, you’re well on your way to making mealtime magic, no matter the occasion.
So, my friends, go forth and Bang Bang! Embrace the flavor, revel in the versatility, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen.
Your taste buds (and your dinner companions) will thank you. Until next time, happy cooking!
