Bang Bang Salmon is a spicy, creamy, and slightly sweet dish inspired by the popular Bang Bang sauce. This recipe pairs tender, flaky salmon with a bold, tangy sauce that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying as a quick weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavor-packed dish:
For the Salmon:
- Salmon Fillets (4, about 6 oz each)
Fresh or frozen salmon works. Look for skin-on or skinless fillets based on your preference. - Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
Helps the salmon sear beautifully while keeping it moist. - Salt (½ teaspoon)
Enhances the natural flavor of the salmon. - Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
Adds a subtle kick to the salmon.
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup)
Creates the creamy base of the sauce. Use light mayo if preferred. - Sweet Chili Sauce (¼ cup)
Adds a sweet, tangy flavor. - Sriracha (1–2 tablespoons)
Brings the heat! Adjust to your spice tolerance. - Honey (1 tablespoon)
Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness. - Lime Juice (1 tablespoon)
Adds brightness and a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon
Follow these steps for a dish that’s simple yet impressive:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil over each fillet, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if skin-on) and sear for 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.
- Transfer the salmon to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and well combined. Adjust the sriracha and honey to your taste preference.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Remove the salmon from the oven and drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the fillets.
- For an extra touch, broil the salmon for 1–2 minutes to slightly caramelize the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the Bang Bang Salmon hot, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh finish. Pair it with steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different fish?
Yes! Cod, tilapia, or trout are excellent substitutes if you don’t have salmon.
How spicy is Bang Bang Salmon?
The heat level depends on the amount of sriracha used. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more for extra spice.
Can I make this dish healthier?
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce. You can also bake the salmon entirely without searing it.
What sides go well with Bang Bang Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Can I grill the salmon instead?
Absolutely! Grill the salmon over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side, then drizzle with the Bang Bang sauce before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon is a bold and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of the sauce with the richness of perfectly cooked salmon. It’s simple, delicious, and guaranteed to impress at any dinner table.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy your spicy, saucy salmon! 🐟✨
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