Description

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a quick and flavorful weeknight recipe featuring tender salmon cubes coated in a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce. Versatile in preparation, this dish can be pan-seared, baked, or air-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior, perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Bites

1 pound Salmon Fillets (skin removed and cut into cubes)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or any neutral oil)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or fresh garlic)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (optional)
1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (or regular paprika)
1 teaspoon Salt
1 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional for less heat)

Bang Bang Sauce

1/2 cup Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
1/4 cup Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to spice preference)
1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Lime Juice (fresh is best)

Garnishes

2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (or Green Onions, or Sesame Seeds)
1 lime Lime Wedges (optional but recommended)

Instructions

Preparation: Pat the salmon cubes dry thoroughly with a paper towel to ensure crispiness during cooking. Toss the salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Cooking Method Selection: Decide whether you want to pan-sear, bake, or air-fry the salmon bites based on your preferred equipment and texture.
Pan-Searing: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon cubes in the hot skillet, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until the outside is crispy and the inside is cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain crispiness.
Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay the seasoned salmon cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked fully and slightly crispy on the edges.
Air-Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket to allow air circulation. Cook for 8-10 minutes until crisp and cooked through.
Finishing Touches: Once cooked, either drizzle the Bang Bang sauce liberally over the salmon bites or toss them gently to coat evenly. Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture. Serve immediately with lime wedges to squeeze over for a fresh citrus kick.

Notes

For a healthier version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Ensure salmon cubes are dry before seasoning to get a better sear or crispiness.
If baking, line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate cleanup.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Leftover salmon bites can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-Searing
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Bang Bang Salmon, Salmon Bites, Spicy Salmon, Quick Salmon Recipe, Crispy Salmon, Weeknight Dinner, Air Fryer Salmon, Baked Salmon, Pan-Seared Salmon