Bang Bang Salmon

Every time I make this Bang Bang Salmon, it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. The first time I tried this recipe, I was hosting a dinner for my kids and their families, and I wanted to impress them with something special. As the salmon cooked in the air fryer, the aroma wafted through the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame. It was a moment of pure joy to see their eyes light up as they took their first bites. I knew then that this dish would become a staple in my home. You’re going to feel that same warmth and comfort when you make it for your loved ones!

How to make Bang Bang Salmon

Ingredients:

• 1 1⁄2 pounds salmon fillets: This is the star of the dish! Fresh, skin-off salmon works best here, but if you can only find frozen, don’t worry! Just thaw it before cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: A little oil helps to keep the salmon moist and adds flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely depth to the dish that you just can’t ignore.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Similar to garlic powder, it brings forward that savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: This provides a delightful smoky essence that complements the salmon beautifully.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to bring out all the wonderful flavors.
• 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of spice and warmth.
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): If you like it hot, go ahead and add this!
• 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise: This is the base for our Bang Bang sauce, giving it that creamy texture.
• 1⁄4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce: This adds a sweet and tangy kick that makes this dish truly special.
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce: Adjust this to your liking. I love a little extra heat!
• 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the sauce perfectly—trust me, it’s a game-changer.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: This brightens everything up and adds a refreshing zing.

Cooking Steps:

1. Whisk the Sauce Together: In a small bowl, take your mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, honey, and lime juice. I love using a whisk here, as it blends everything together nicely. Set this luscious mixture aside. This is your Bang Bang sauce that will take this dish to another level!

2. Prepare the Salmon Bites: In a large bowl, combine the salmon bites, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss everything together until the salmon bites are well-coated. You’re going to love how vibrant the colors are!

3. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. This step is crucial, as it makes sure your salmon gets that perfect crispy edge. Trust me—this is key!

4. Air Fry the Salmon: Place the salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; otherwise, they won’t cook evenly. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry the salmon bites for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You’ll know they are done when they’re crispy on the edges and cooked all the way through.

5. Serve It Up: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving platter and drizzle the Bang Bang sauce on top. Don’t forget to serve the remaining sauce on the side for dipping. Your family is going to be drooling; I can promise you that!

Why I Love Making This Dish

Every time I serve Bang Bang Salmon, it feels like a special occasion. Whether I’m hosting a big family dinner or just cooking for my husband and me, this dish brings everyone to the table and keeps them coming back for more. The combination of flavors from the spices and the creamy, spicy sauce creates a symphony of tastes that is simply unforgettable.

What You’ll Need

For this recipe, besides the ingredients, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A good air fryer is the best friend in this dish, but you could also use a conventional oven if you don’t own one. A mixing bowl and a whisk are essential for making that wonderful Bang Bang sauce. If you have a spatula handy, great! It helps to scoop out that deliciousness from the bowl.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Trust me, this is key for getting that crispy skin!

2. Whisk the sauces together for a creamy, spicy delight.

3. Combine your salmon bites with the seasonings, mixing until everything is evenly coated.

4. Air fry the salmon bites, shaking halfway through to ensure even cooking.

5. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the bites right before serving.

Tips for Perfect Results

When preparing Bang Bang Salmon, I have a few personal tricks that ensure perfect results every time. First, I always look for the freshest salmon possible. If you can get it from a local fish market, do it! Additionally, I’ve found that letting the salmon marinate a little while in the spices can help enhance the flavors. Just a quick 15 minutes does wonders!

Serving Suggestions and Sides

Bang Bang Salmon is fantastic on its own, but if you want to take it up a notch, consider pairing it with simple sides like a light salad or steamed vegetables. A side of rice or quinoa also complements the dish beautifully, soaking up that amazing sauce.

Leftovers

Ah, leftovers! They can be just as delightful. If you happen to have any salmon bites left over (which I doubt will happen), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to indulge again, just pop them back in the air fryer for a quick reheat, and they’ll be nice and crispy once more.

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen salmon?
You can, but make sure to thaw it first! Frozen salmon can lose some of its texture, but it’ll still be delicious.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! You can bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes instead.

Can I make this dish in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just season and cook the salmon right before serving for the best results.

Is it okay to use skin-on salmon?
Yes! If you prefer skin-on salmon, it will add a nice crispy texture once cooked. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper and sriracha to suit your taste. It’s your kitchen—make it your own!

This Bang Bang Salmon dish has become a beloved favorite in my home, and I’m so excited for you to try it. With its delightful flavors and comforting vibes, I know you’ll love making and sharing it just as much as I do. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking!