Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that is bursting with flavor, delightfully crispy, and irresistibly saucy, then you absolutely have to try my Bang Bang Salmon Bites. These little cubes of salmon are coated in crunchy panko, baked to golden perfection, and then generously drenched in a creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy Bang Bang sauce that brings all the excitement to your taste buds. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a main course, Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a personal favorite that always wow guests and family alike with their incredible texture and bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may sound simple, but each plays an essential role in creating the magic of Bang Bang Salmon Bites. From the delicate flakes of fresh salmon to the zesty lime in the sauce, every element brings a unique texture, color, or flavor that makes this dish truly spectacular.
- 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes): The star of the dish, providing tender, flaky richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that enhances the salmon’s flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky note and beautiful color.
- ½ tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and aroma.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates a light, crispy coating that makes each bite irresistible.
- 1 tbsp olive oil or spray for crisping: Helps achieve that golden, crunchy finish.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base for the luscious bang bang sauce.
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce: Adds sweetness and a mild kick to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level): For that signature spicy heat that wakes up your palate.
- 1 tsp honey (optional): Balances the spice and brings a gentle sweetness.
- Juice of ½ lime: Injects freshness and bright acidity to the sauce.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice): A fluffy, fragrant base that complements the salmon.
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage: Adds crunch and vibrant color to the bowl.
- 1 avocado (sliced): Offers creamy texture and richness.
- ½ cup shredded carrots: Brings sweetness and a pop of orange vibrancy.
- 2 green onions (sliced): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish: These final touches infuse extra aroma and visual appeal.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Device
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or if you prefer using an air fryer, heat it up to 390°F (200°C). This ensures that your salmon bites will cook quickly and develop that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a mixing bowl, toss the bite-sized salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning layer is what brings out the natural flavors of the salmon while adding a touch of warmth and smokiness.
Step 3: Coat Salmon with Panko Breadcrumbs
Next, gently press each salmon cube into the panko breadcrumbs until thoroughly coated. Don’t skip spraying or drizzling with olive oil here — it’s the secret to achieving those irresistibly crunchy Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
Step 4: Bake or Air-Fry to Crispy Perfection
If baking, lay the coated salmon bites on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 12–14 minutes until golden and crisp. For air fryer lovers, cook the bites in batches for 8–10 minutes at 390°F, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping on all sides.
Step 5: Whisk Up the Bang Bang Sauce
While the salmon cooks, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey if you like a hint of sweetness. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ready to deliver that signature tangy-spicy punch to your Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
Step 6: Assemble Your Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
Start with a warm bed of jasmine rice, then layer on shredded purple cabbage, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and your crispy salmon bites. Finish by drizzling plenty of the luscious Bang Bang sauce over the top, and scatter with green onions, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds for that signature finish.
How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Garnishes
Garnishing your Bang Bang Salmon Bites not only adds visual appeal but enhances texture and flavor. Fresh cilantro lends a bright herbal note, green onions offer a delicate crunch, and sesame seeds add a satisfying nutty finish. These simple touches elevate your dish from everyday to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
While the rice and veggies in the bowls are perfect accompaniments, you can also enjoy Bang Bang Salmon Bites alongside a crisp Asian-style salad or a light cucumber salad for extra freshness. For an extra-special meal, serve with steamed edamame or roasted sweet potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
Take these bites to the next level by serving them on skewers for a fun appetizer or mini tapas platter. You could also turn the whole dish into sushi-style rolls or tacos using small tortillas or lettuce cups for a playful twist. The versatility of Bang Bang Salmon Bites allows you to customize the presentation for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to preserve the crispy texture of the salmon bites. When ready to eat, assemble your bowl fresh for the best experience.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the salmon bites, do so before adding the sauce. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispiness. Instead, warm the salmon bites in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Drizzle with freshly made Bang Bang sauce just before serving to refresh all those vibrant flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Yes, frozen salmon can be used but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can stop the panko from crisping up properly.
How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
The sauce has a mild to moderate kick depending on how much sriracha you add. You can easily adjust the heat level by reducing or increasing the sriracha to suit your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by substituting panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers without compromising on texture.
Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites without an air fryer?
Absolutely! Baking in a traditional oven works just as well to achieve crispy bites. Just watch closely to avoid overcooking the delicate salmon.
What’s a good dipping sauce alternative?
If you want something different, try a simple blend of yogurt, lime juice, and a dash of hot sauce or a sweet chili garlic dip for extra zing alongside your Bang Bang Salmon Bites.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give these Bang Bang Salmon Bites a try because they pack so much flavor and texture into every bite, they’re hard to resist. Whether you’re treating yourself on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at your next get-together, this recipe is a winner every time. Take a little time, follow the steps, and enjoy the magic of perfectly crispy, saucy, and vibrant Bang Bang Salmon Bites on your plate. You’re going to love it!
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Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 27-29 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful chunks of salmon coated in panko breadcrumbs and baked or air-fried to perfection. Served over a bed of jasmine rice with fresh veggies and drizzled with a creamy, spicy Bang Bang sauce, this dish is a delicious and healthy weeknight meal. Perfect for meal prep or sharing as an appetizer, it offers a delightful combination of textures and vibrant Asian-inspired flavors that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil or spray for crisping
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Juice of ½ lime
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) to ensure the salmon bites will cook evenly and develop a crispy crust.
- Season the Salmon: In a mixing bowl, toss the salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Coat in Breadcrumbs: Press each seasoned salmon cube gently into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a thorough coating. Lightly spray or brush the coated pieces with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.
- Bake or Air-Fry: For baking, place the coated salmon bites on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for 12–14 minutes until golden and crispy. If using an air fryer, cook in batches at 390°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, fresh lime juice, and honey in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of sriracha.
- Assemble the Bowls: Layer cooked jasmine rice at the base of your bowl. Top with shredded purple cabbage, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and crispy Bang Bang salmon bites. Drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce and garnish with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lower-carb option, substitute jasmine rice with cauliflower rice.
- Adjust the sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Make sure to cut the salmon into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator and taste great reheated or cold.
- This recipe is kid-friendly and great for meal prep lunches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking or Air Frying + Assembly
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Bang Bang Salmon, Salmon Bites, Asian-inspired salmon recipe, crispy salmon, healthy salmon recipe, quick dinner, meal prep salmon
