Oh, let me tell you about my latest obsession—Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites! If you’re a fan of bold flavors, crispy textures, and a little kick of heat, you’re in for a treat. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s incredibly easy to make yet feels like something you’d order at a fancy restaurant.
I remember the first time I made these, I was craving something crispy but didn’t want the usual fried chicken or shrimp. Salmon seemed like the perfect choice, and once I coated it in my homemade bang bang sauce—oh wow! The crispy golden edges paired with that sweet and spicy sauce were simply irresistible.
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve these bites as an appetizer, throw them over a salad, or even stuff them into tacos for a quick and delicious meal. Plus, they come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
What’s in Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Salmon: The star of the dish! I use fresh, skinless salmon fillets cut into bite-sized cubes for the perfect crispy texture.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle helps coat the salmon evenly and gives it that golden, crispy finish.
Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper adds a deep, smoky flavor with just a hint of heat.
Bang Bang Sauce: The real magic happens here! A blend of mayo, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice creates a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that takes these salmon bites to the next level.
Garnishes: Fresh parsley, green onions, and sesame seeds add a pop of color and extra flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.
Ingredients
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1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
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1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for preferred heat level)
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
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Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
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Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
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Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
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Prepare 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. -
Season the Salmon
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. -
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. -
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. -
Sear Until Crispy
Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, gently turning to brown all sides. Cook until the salmon is golden and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flaky inside. -
Drain Excess Oil
Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. -
Coat with Sauce
Place the salmon bites in a bowl, pour the sauce over, and gently toss to coat each piece evenly. -
Garnish and Serve
Arrange the salmon bites on a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
These crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are best served immediately to enjoy their perfect texture and bold flavors!
Sweet Tips and Fun Variations
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Add Greens for Extra Nutrients
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, toss in a handful of spinach or even kale to the mix! I promise, the flavor will still be incredible, and you’ll sneak in some extra nutrients without compromising on taste. -
Berrylicious Twist
Looking for a fun flavor variation? Try adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the sauce. The fruity burst adds a refreshing twist to the creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. -
Tropical Bang Bang
For a vacation-like feel, swap the banana for mango and add a splash of coconut milk. This adds a tropical flair to the dish that will transport your taste buds to the islands. -
Add a Crunch
Want a bit more crunch? Sprinkle some crushed nuts like almonds or cashews on top of the finished dish. It’s an easy way to elevate the texture while adding a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salmon. -
Make it Spicy
If you love extra heat, don’t hesitate to add more sriracha or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Just adjust to your preferred spice level—it’s all about balancing that perfect sweet and spicy combination!
This recipe is truly versatile, and you can make it your own with these creative variations. The crispy salmon bites paired with that creamy, zesty sauce will be the star of any meal, whether it’s a quick dinner or a fun appetizer for guests.
Give these crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites a try, and don’t forget to share how yours turned out! The vibrant flavors and crispy texture are a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking
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Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a crowd-pleasing dish with a perfect balance of crispy, tender salmon and a creamy, spicy sauce. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a flavorful snack, these bites are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With a quick preparation time and the option to make them spicy or mild, this recipe is versatile and delicious!
Ingredients
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1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
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1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for preferred heat level)
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1 tablespoon honey
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1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
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Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
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Green onions (sliced, for garnish)
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Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare the Salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy texture. Remove the skin and cut the salmon into bite-sized cubes. -
Season the Salmon:
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. Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly with the seasoning. -
Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust the heat or sweetness according to your preference. -
Cook the Salmon:
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and cook the salmon pieces in batches for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside. -
Drain the Salmon:
Transfer the salmon bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. -
Toss in Sauce:
Place the salmon bites in a bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss gently to coat. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, and sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best crispy texture.
Notes
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For added crunch, sprinkle crushed nuts (like almonds or cashews) over the salmon before serving.
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This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet for the best results.
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Adjust the heat of the sauce to your liking by adding more sriracha or using a milder sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. This will ensure that the salmon cooks evenly and maintains its flavor and texture. Just be sure to pat it dry thoroughly after thawing to avoid excess moisture.
2. Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just give it a good stir and drizzle over the crispy salmon bites.
3. Can I bake the salmon bites instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a great alternative! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is crispy on the outside and flaky inside. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end of cooking.
4. Can I substitute the mayo in the sauce?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You can also try using avocado to create a creamy base. Both options will still give you that rich, smooth texture, with a slightly different flavor profile.
These questions cover some of the common queries about this recipe, but feel free to ask if you have any others! Enjoy making your crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites!