Craving a delicious, quick, and easy dinner? This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a must-try! With its perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors, it’s the ultimate 25-minute meal for busy weeknights. Whether you bake it in the oven or air-fry it, this dish delivers on taste and convenience – a true crowd-pleaser.
What is Bang Bang Salmon?
Bang Bang Salmon is a delectable fusion dish inspired by the popular Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. It combines crispy salmon fillets with a sweet, spicy, and creamy sauce, offering a delightful culinary experience.
Inspiration Behind the Dish
The original Bang Bang Shrimp was introduced by Bonefish Grill, a renowned seafood restaurant chain. This dish quickly became a favorite, leading to various adaptations, including the creation of Bang Bang Salmon.
What Makes This Salmon Recipe Unique?
This recipe stands out due to its harmonious blend of flavors and textures:
- Crispy Salmon: The salmon fillets are seasoned and baked to achieve a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender interior.
- Bang Bang Sauce: A signature sauce that combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness, spiciness, and creaminess.
- Versatility: This dish can be prepared using different cooking methods, such as baking or air frying, catering to various preferences and kitchen setups.
How Bang Bang Sauce Enhances the Flavor
The Bang Bang sauce is the heart of this dish, elevating the salmon with its unique flavor profile:
- Creaminess: Mayonnaise serves as the base, providing a rich and smooth texture.
- Sweetness: Sweet chili sauce and honey add a pleasant sweetness that balances the heat.
- Spiciness: Sriracha introduces a spicy kick, giving the sauce its signature “bang.”
Together, these elements create a sauce that complements the salmon perfectly, making Bang Bang Salmon a must-try dish for seafood enthusiasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating a delicious Bang Bang Salmon starts with gathering fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to guide you:
Salmon Fillets
- Fresh or Frozen (Thawed): Choose skin-on fillets for added flavor and moisture. Wild-caught varieties like sockeye are excellent choices.
Bang Bang Sauce Components
- Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds sweetness with a hint of spice.
- Sriracha: Introduces a spicy kick.
- Honey: Balances flavors with natural sweetness.
Tip: Adjust the Sriracha to control the heat level.
Seasonings
- Garlic Powder: Enhances savory notes.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for basic seasoning.
- Lime Juice: Adds a refreshing citrus touch.
Optional Toppings
- Green Onions: For a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: Introduce a subtle nuttiness.
Garnishing Tip: These toppings not only enhance flavor but also add visual appeal.
Ingredient Table
For a clear overview, here’s a table summarizing the ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Salmon Fillets | 4 (6 oz each) |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Sweet Chili Sauce | ¼ cup |
| Sriracha | 1-2 tsp (to taste) |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Lime Juice | 1 tbsp |
| Green Onions | 2 tbsp, chopped (optional) |
| Sesame Seeds | 1 tbsp (optional) |
Note: This table serves as a quick reference for your shopping and preparation needs.
By organizing your ingredients and understanding their roles, you’re set to create a flavorful Bang Bang Salmon that’s sure to impress.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon (Step-by-Step Guide)
Creating a flavorful Bang Bang Salmon at home is both simple and rewarding. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare a dish that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Prep the Salmon
- Pat Dry the Salmon Fillets: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from each fillet. This ensures a crispy exterior during cooking.
- Season the Fillets: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
Tip: For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of paprika or garlic powder.
Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Mix Until Smooth: Ensure the sauce has a creamy consistency.
Note: Adjust the Sriracha to control the spice level.
Step 3: Cook the Salmon
You have two primary methods to cook the salmon:
Oven Method:
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper or lightly grease to prevent sticking.
- Place Salmon Fillets: Arrange skin-side down on the sheet.
- Bake: Cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange Fillets: Place in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Air Fry: Cook for 10-12 minutes, checking for doneness.
Tip: Cooking times may vary based on fillet thickness. Always check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Apply the Bang Bang Sauce: Once cooked, drizzle or brush the sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve: Pair with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors.
Note: For a healthier twist, serve over cauliflower rice or alongside grilled asparagus.
By following these steps, you’ll create a delectable Bang Bang Salmon that’s both spicy and sweet, perfect for any occasion.
Best Tips for the Perfect Bang Bang Salmon
Achieving the perfect Bang Bang Salmon involves attention to detail and a few key techniques. Here’s how you can elevate your dish:
1. Choose Fresh, High-Quality Salmon
Selecting fresh, high-quality salmon is crucial for optimal flavor and texture. Fresh salmon offers a tender, moist bite that enhances the overall dish. If using frozen fillets, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to maintain the desired texture.
2. Adjust the Spice Level to Your Preference
The Bang Bang sauce’s heat can be tailored to suit your taste:
- Mild: Use less Sriracha or substitute with a milder hot sauce.
- Medium: Follow the standard recipe measurements.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of Sriracha for an extra kick.
This flexibility ensures the dish caters to everyone’s palate.
3. Avoid Overcooking the Salmon
Salmon is best enjoyed when cooked to medium, retaining its moisture and tenderness. Experts recommend cooking salmon to an internal temperature of 120°F for wild salmon and 125°F for farmed varieties. This prevents the fish from becoming dry and ensures a juicy, flavorful bite.
4. Let the Salmon Rest Before Serving
Allowing the cooked salmon to rest for a few minutes before serving helps redistribute the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and moist bite. This simple step enhances the overall dining experience.
5. Serve Immediately for Optimal Enjoyment
Bang Bang Salmon is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or air fryer. Serving it immediately ensures you experience the full spectrum of flavors and textures, from the crispy exterior to the tender interior.
By incorporating these tips, you can create a Bang Bang Salmon that’s both delicious and tailored to your preferences. Happy cooking.
What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon
When serving Bang Bang Salmon, selecting complementary side dishes enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some options to consider:
Rice and Grains
- Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the Bang Bang sauce beautifully, providing a subtle base that lets the salmon’s flavors shine.
- Quinoa: A protein-rich alternative, quinoa adds a slightly nutty taste and fluffy texture, pairing well with the salmon’s richness.[1]
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light, vegetable-forward base that complements the bold flavors of the dish.[2]
Vegetables
- Roasted Asparagus: The tender-crisp texture and earthy flavor of roasted asparagus make it a delightful accompaniment to Bang Bang Salmon.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds a fresh, green element that balances the meal.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy-sweet salmon.
Low-Carb Options
- Zucchini Noodles: Also known as “zoodles,” these provide a pasta-like experience without the carbs, pairing seamlessly with the Bang Bang sauce.[3]
- Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and smooth, mashed cauliflower serves as a satisfying substitute for traditional mashed potatoes, aligning well with the dish’s flavor profile.
When choosing sides, aim for dishes that balance the richness and spice of Bang Bang Salmon, creating a harmonious and enjoyable dining experience.
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe brings together the rich, flaky goodness of salmon with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce for an irresistible flavor combo. It’s a quick, easy dish that suits any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turned out — drop a comment below or share your delicious creation on social media. We’d love to see your version.
Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp Sriracha adjust to taste
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp green onions chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer
- Oven: 400°F (200°C)
- Air Fryer: 375°F (190°C)
Prepare the Salmon
- Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Lightly brush with olive oil.
Cook the Salmon
- Oven: Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Air Fryer: Cook for 10-12 minutes.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha.
Assemble & Serve
- Drizzle or coat cooked salmon with the Bang Bang sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Total Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Sugar: 9 g
- Fiber: <1 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 610 mg
FAQs
What is bangamary salmon?
Bangamary, often referred to as “white salmon” in regions like Guyana, is a tender white fish known for its delicate flavor and texture.
Despite the nickname, Bangamary is not a type of salmon but is prized for its culinary versatility.
Is bangamary fish healthy?
Bangamary is considered a healthy choice due to its rich nutritional profile. It is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health, and provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.[4]
What is the rarest type of salmon?
The rarest type of salmon is the Sakhalin taimen, native to Russia and parts of Japan. This species is critically endangered, making it exceptionally rare.[5]
What is the most expensive salmon?
The most expensive salmon is typically the King Salmon, also known as Chinook. Its rich, high-fat content and buttery flavor contribute to its premium price.
What salmon to avoid buying?
When purchasing salmon, it’s advisable to avoid farmed Atlantic salmon due to concerns about environmental impact and potential contaminants. Opting for wild-caught Alaskan salmon is a more sustainable and healthier choice.[6]
What is the best salmon in the world?
The best salmon in the world is often considered to be wild-caught Alaskan salmon. It is renowned for its superior taste, firm texture, and high nutritional value, including omega-3 fatty acids.[7]