Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delicious combination of crispy texture and bold, zesty flavors. The crispy salmon pieces, perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices, contrast beautifully with the creamy and spicy bang bang sauce. It’s an easy recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home, and it’s customizable based on your preferred level of heat. The dish is quick to make, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. Plus, the salmon is rich in omega-3s, making this a healthier alternative to fried appetizers.

Ingredients

For the Salmon Bites:

1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for preferred heat level)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
Green onions, sliced
Sesame seeds

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Salmon Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture. Remove any skin and cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.
Place the salmon pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly with the seasoning.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust the sauce—add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Once the oil is hot, add the salmon pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if needed.
Cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Coat the Salmon in Sauce
Place the crispy salmon bites in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the Bang Bang Sauce over the salmon and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the sauced salmon to a serving plate. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Heat level: Adjust the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper to suit your desired spice level.
Air fryer version: For a lower-fat version, you can cook the salmon bites in an air fryer at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Gluten-free: Ensure that the Thai sweet chili sauce and other condiments are gluten-free, or opt for a homemade version of the sauce.
Add veggies: Serve the salmon bites with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to make it a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the salmon bites on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, or until crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a couple of minutes to maintain the crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, frozen salmon works well for this recipe. Be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.

2. Can I bake the salmon instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes until crispy and cooked through.

3. What can I substitute for Thai sweet chili sauce?

You can substitute Thai sweet chili sauce with a mixture of honey, ketchup, and a little vinegar if you don’t have it on hand.

4. How can I make the Bang Bang sauce spicier?

Add more sriracha or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level.

5. Can I use another fish besides salmon?

Yes, you can use other types of firm fish, such as cod or mahi-mahi, as long as they are cut into bite-sized pieces.

6. Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

7. Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbs, making it suitable for low-carb diets like keto.

8. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan?

Make sure the pan is preheated and use enough oil to coat the surface. Non-stick pans work best for this recipe.

9. Can I make this recipe without mayo?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream to replace the mayo in the Bang Bang sauce.

10. Can I serve these salmon bites cold?

For best results, these salmon bites are best served warm, but they can be enjoyed cold if needed, especially as part of a seafood salad.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are an irresistible treat that combines crispy salmon with a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these flavorful bites are sure to satisfy. The balance of heat, sweetness, and tanginess in the Bang Bang Sauce elevates this dish, making it a standout in any meal. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious explosion of flavors!