why make this recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal. This recipe combines satisfying flavors with easy preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, providing not just great taste but also important health benefits. With the added crunch from panko breadcrumbs and a tangy Bang Bang sauce, these salmon bites are guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, you can serve them over rice and topped with fresh veggies for a wholesome meal that’s both nutritious and filling.
how to make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Making Bang Bang Salmon Bites is simple and fun. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a plate full of crispy salmon bites ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil or spray for crisping
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Juice of ½ lime
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish
Directions:
Preheat Oven or Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Preheating ensures that your salmon bites cook evenly and become crispy.
Season the Salmon:
Take your cut salmon cubes and place them in a bowl. Add the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss the salmon cubes gently until they are evenly coated with the spices.
Coat in Breadcrumbs:
Pour the panko breadcrumbs onto a plate. Take each piece of seasoned salmon and roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing down gently to ensure they stick well. This step is key for achieving that delicious crunch.
Bake or Air-Fry:
If you are using an oven, spread the coated salmon bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up nicely. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is fully cooked and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
If you are using an air fryer, place the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil and cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon is cooking, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice. Adjust the amount of sriracha based on your preferred spice level. Taste the sauce and add more honey or lime if desired for extra balance.
Assemble the Bowls:
Once the salmon bites are done, it’s time to put everything together. In serving bowls, start with a base of cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice. Carefully add the crispy salmon bites on top. Add shredded purple cabbage, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and green onions around the salmon. Drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce and finish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
how to serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites
To enjoy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, serve them in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing. Provide extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for those who want to dip or drizzle more on their meal. This dish pairs well with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade to balance the spicy flavor of the sauce.
You can also enjoy these salmon bites as an appetizer at your next gathering, letting guests grab their portions. Make sure to keep extra toppings like avocado and fresh herbs available for those who want to customize their bites.
how to store Bang Bang Salmon Bites
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To maintain the crunchiness, you should try to reheat them in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the salmon bites on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
For the Bang Bang sauce, you can store it separately in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it is in a sealed container, and give it a good stir before using it again.
tips to make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Fresh Salmon: Always choose high-quality, fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture. If you can, look for wild-caught salmon, which tends to have a more robust taste.
Breadcrumb Coating: Panko breadcrumbs give that extra crunch. If you want, you can flavor the breadcrumbs with dried herbs or spices for an added layer of flavor.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce according to your taste. If you enjoy spicy food, feel free to add more!
Meal Prep: You can prep the salmon and the sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. This way, you can quickly bake or air-fry the salmon bites for a hassle-free meal.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize your bowls with other vegetables, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for added crunch and nutrition.
variation
There are many ways to customize Bang Bang Salmon Bites. You can replace salmon with other proteins like shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. You can also try different sauces such as garlic aioli, lemon herb dressing, or even a spicy peanut sauce for a fun twist. Whatever you choose, the crunchy coating and fresh vegetables will still make it delicious!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning and coating in breadcrumbs.
2. What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
These salmon bites pair wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or any type of rice. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a side of the Bang Bang sauce for dipping.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! These salmon bites store well and can be reheated for a quick meal. Just store the cooked bites and sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
4. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week.
By following this simple guide, you will have a delightful dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your Bang Bang Salmon Bites!
Print
Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Crispy salmon bites coated in panko and drizzled with a tangy Bang Bang sauce, perfect for quick meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil or spray for crisping
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level)
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Juice of ½ lime
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- In a bowl, season the salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Roll the seasoned salmon cubes in panko breadcrumbs until coated.
- Spread the coated salmon bites on a baking sheet or air fryer basket, spray lightly with olive oil, and bake for 12-15 minutes or air-fry for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- While cooking, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice to make the Bang Bang sauce.
- Assemble bowls with a base of rice, top with salmon bites, cabbage, avocado, carrots, green onions, and drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce.
Notes
Serve with extra Bang Bang sauce for dipping. Pairs well with iced tea or lemonade.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Bang Bang Salmon, Salmon Bites, Crispy Salmon, Healthy Recipe, Seafood