Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore these Bang Bang Salmon Bites for their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior of the salmon contrasts beautifully with its tender, flaky interior. When tossed in the creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce, each bite is a delightful explosion of taste. Whether I’m preparing them for a quick weeknight dinner or serving them as appetizers at a gathering, they never fail to impress. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—great over rice, in tacos, or even on their own as a snack.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds salmon fillets, skin removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lime juice

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl.
Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the edges.
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl.
Once the salmon bites are done, transfer them to a serving platter and drizzle with the prepared bang bang sauce. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Air Fryer: For a healthier option, cooking the salmon bites in the air fryer yields a crispy exterior without excess oil.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned salmon pieces on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Pan-Seared: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make the dish milder, reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce. For extra heat, increase the sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While the salmon is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the bang bang sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What can I serve with these salmon bites?

These salmon bites pair wonderfully with jasmine rice, a fresh salad, or as a topping for tacos or lettuce wraps.

Can I use other types of fish?

Yes, other firm fish like cod or halibut can be used as a substitute for salmon in this recipe.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Salmon Bites have become a staple in my kitchen due to their irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Whether I’m serving them as a main dish or a party appetizer, they never disappoint. The versatility in cooking methods and the ease of preparation make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to a delicious meal, give these a try—you won’t regret it.