Bang Bang Salmon Bites: A Flavorful Delight
Are you ready to indulge in some delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bites? This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, or just want a fun snack, these salmon bites are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, they offer a unique and zesty taste that tantalizes the palate. The combination of spices and the creamy bang bang sauce creates a delightful contrast that will have everyone reaching for more. Second, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. Plus, the quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy cooks. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer or a main dish, these bites are versatile and sure to satisfy.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Making Bang Bang Salmon Bites is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to whip up this delightful dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon fillets (skin removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
Directions
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Start by cutting the salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps ensure even cooking.
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In a bowl, toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated.
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Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the salmon cubes for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
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For extra crispiness, transfer the cooked salmon to a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for an additional 10-12 minutes. You can also air fry them at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
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While the salmon is cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In another bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
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Once the salmon bites are cooked, toss them with the bang bang sauce before serving.
Pro Tips for Success Bang Bang Salmon Bites
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Choose Quality Salmon: Fresh, high-quality salmon will make a noticeable difference in taste. Look for wild-caught if possible.
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Uniform Size Matters: Cutting the salmon into 1-inch cubes helps them cook evenly.
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Control the Heat: Adjust the cooking time if your stove runs hot or cold. You want a nice golden color without overcooking.
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Give It a Mix: Make sure to toss the salmon thoroughly in the spices for even flavor distribution.
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Experiment with the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or heat of the bang bang sauce by adding more honey or sriracha according to your taste.
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Serve Immediately: These bites are best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet or oven when they’re still warm and crispy.
Flavor Variations Bang Bang Salmon Bites
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Honey Garlic: Substitute some of the bang bang sauce with a mix of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
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Spicy Cajun: Add a dash of Cajun seasoning to the fish for an extra kick.
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Lemon Dill: Incorporate fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon into the sauce for a refreshing flavor change.
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Coconut Cream Sauce: Swap out the mayonnaise for coconut cream for a tropical flavor, which pairs wonderfully with salmon.
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Avocado Sauce: Blend ripe avocado into the sauce for a creamier texture and an added boost of healthy fat.
Serving Suggestions Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:
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As an Appetizer: Serve alongside toothpicks for easy snacking during gatherings or parties.
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On a Salad: Add the salmon bites over a bed of mixed greens, drizzled with lime vinaigrette for a light meal.
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In Tacos: Use soft tortillas to wrap the salmon bites with shredded cabbage and a squeeze of lime for delicious tacos.
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As a Main Dish: Pair them with fluffy rice and steamed vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
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With Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet chili or ranch, for added flavor.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Bang Bang Salmon Bites
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they might not last long!), you can store the Bang Bang Salmon Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F until warmed through.
For long-term storage, freeze the uncooked salmon bites before frying or baking. Place the seasoned salmon cubes in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and follow the cooking directions as usual.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQ About Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cutting and seasoning. This ensures an even cook and prevents the pieces from clumping together.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt as a creamy substitute. It will add a nice tang and maintain the rich texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Bang Bang Salmon Bites can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that the sauces you use do not contain gluten. Most sriracha and Thai sweet chili sauces are gluten-free, but it’s always best to check labels.
How spicy are these bites?
The spiciness level is adjustable. The recipe includes cayenne pepper as an option. If you prefer milder flavors, you can eliminate the cayenne and reduce the sriracha in the sauce for a gentler kick.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While these salmon bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the salmon and coat it with seasonings a few hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. However, the bang bang sauce is best made fresh to maintain its flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a quick, delectable dish that brings flavors together in a perfect blend. Whether serving them at a party, crafting a casual family dinner, or simply treating yourself, they’re bound to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful crunch and creamy sauce of these little bites, and remember that cooking can be an adventure in flavors! Embrace this delicious recipe, and happy cooking!
Print
Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Delicious and flavorful Bang Bang Salmon Bites that are easy to prepare, perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound salmon fillets (skin removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
- Cut the salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes.
- Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well coated.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and cook the salmon cubes for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the cooked salmon to a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for an additional 10-12 minutes for extra crispiness.
- In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth to make the bang bang sauce.
- Toss the cooked salmon bites with the bang bang sauce before serving.
Notes
For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality salmon. Adjust the cayenne and sriracha according to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
