Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce—Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect quick dinner idea that’s full of flavor and guaranteed to impress. These golden bites are pan-seared or air-fried to perfection, giving them a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy drizzle of bang bang sauce. Whether you’re making them for a party appetizer, a healthy snack, or an easy weeknight dinner, they come together in under 30 minutes.
This dish blends bold seasoning with juicy salmon, making every bite pop with flavor. The tangy-sweet sauce with a hint of chili brings out the natural richness of the salmon, while the slightly charred edges add an irresistible depth. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for everything from meal prep to game-day snacks. Serve them over rice, in tacos, or with a side salad for a balanced, delicious meal.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- 1 lb skinless salmon fillet, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or spray for air fryer)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Juice of ½ lime (optional, for a tangy kick)
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and ensure a crispy texture when cooked. Place the salmon pieces in a large bowl.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the salmon cubes and drizzle with olive oil. Toss well to coat each piece evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the salmon cubes in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 7–9 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Pan-Sear Method:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook the salmon cubes in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey or maple syrup, and lime juice until smooth. Adjust the sriracha to control the heat level to your taste.
Step 5: Toss or Drizzle
Once the salmon bites are cooked, you can either drizzle them with the bang bang sauce or gently toss them in a bowl with the sauce for full coating. Serve immediately while warm.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: ~310
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredient brands.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level is mild to medium depending on how much sriracha you use. You can skip it for a milder version.
3. Can I bake these instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
4. What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Serve with rice, quinoa, over a salad, in lettuce wraps, or in tacos for a versatile meal.
5. Can I use another fish?
Yes, firm fish like cod or halibut work well. Even shrimp is a tasty substitute.
6. Is this dish keto-friendly?
It can be! Use a low-carb mayo and sweetener for the sauce to make it keto-friendly.
7. How do I make the sauce dairy-free?
Most bang bang sauces are naturally dairy-free if your mayo is dairy-free—just double-check the label.
8. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, season the salmon and mix the sauce in advance. Cook just before serving for best texture.
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