This easy Bang Bang Salmon is a tasty dish with crispy salmon coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that feels fancy!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Salmon fillets are the star here! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use cod or tilapia instead. These fish will take on the sauce nicely, but keep an eye on cooking time as they may cook faster.
Flour: The flour adds a light coating for crispiness. If you prefer gluten-free, almond flour or cornstarch is a great alternative. You can skip it entirely for a lighter dish, too!
Oil: I opt for olive oil for its flavor, but any neutral oil will work. If you want to try something different, sesame oil adds a unique taste that pairs well with the sauce.
Bang Bang Sauce: The mix of mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce gives a lovely balance. For a healthier option, Greek yogurt could replace mayo, and you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Sriracha as you like.
How Do I Achieve Crispy Salmon With Perfect Flavor?
Getting that crispy exterior on the salmon is crucial for texture. Start by making sure the salmon is dry, as moisture can lead to steaming instead of frying.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the oil — a hot skillet helps create a good sear.
- Once the salmon hits the pan, don’t move it around for the first few minutes. This allows it to form a nice crust.
- Cook it until it’s golden brown, and then gently flip. Cook until just opaque in the center.
Finally, tossing the crispy salmon with the Bang Bang sauce right off the stove keeps the coating sticky and helps enhance the overall flavor. Happy cooking!
Easy Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) salmon fillets, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (optional for light coating)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1/2 tbsp Sriracha or more for spiciness
- 1 tsp honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness balance)
- 1 lemon wedge, for garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Bang Bang Salmon recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 6-8 minutes to cook. So, in total, you can have a delicious dinner ready in about 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting dry the salmon cubes with paper towels. This helps get rid of excess moisture, allowing them to crisp up nicely. Next, season the cubes lightly with salt and pepper, making sure they’re well-coated.
2. Coat with Flour (Optional):
If you prefer a little extra crispiness, toss the salmon cubes gently with the flour in a bowl. This will add a light coating that helps achieve that golden, crispy finish.
3. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot before adding the salmon. This is key to starting that perfect sizzle!
4. Cook the Salmon:
Add the salmon cubes to the pan in a single layer. Cook without moving them for about 2-3 minutes until the bottom is browned and crisp. Carefully flip the cubes and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and opaque.
5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon is cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey for the Bang Bang sauce. Adjust the spiciness to your preference by adding more or less Sriracha.
6. Toss and Serve:
Once the salmon is cooked, remove the pan from heat. Toss the salmon gently with the Bang Bang sauce until each piece is nicely coated. Serve immediately on a platter, garnished with fresh chopped chives and lemon wedges on the side.
7. Enjoy:
This Bang Bang Salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice and your choice of steamed or stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful dinner full of sweet, spicy, and creamy goodness!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can! Just ensure to thaw the salmon completely before preparing the recipe. The best way to thaw salmon is by placing it in the refrigerator overnight or sealing it in a bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Sauce?
If you want a lighter or dairy-free option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for mayonnaise. It provides a creamy texture with a slightly tangy flavor. You may also use vegan mayonnaise if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If needed, add a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! You can increase the Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce for extra heat. If you enjoy very spicy food, consider adding some chopped fresh chili peppers when cooking the salmon to really kick it up a notch!
