If you’re a fan of bold, vibrant flavors, this Bang Bang Salmon recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Combining the succulent taste of salmon with a spicy, tangy Bang Bang sauce, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, the air fryer helps make this recipe both easy and efficient. The simplicity of preparation and the explosion of flavors will make it a go-to for any occasion.
Ingredients
Salmon Bites:
- 1 ½ lbs salmon fillets (skin removed, cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
- Whisk the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust the amount based on your heat preference), 1 tbsp honey, and 1 tbsp lime juice until smooth.
- Set Aside: Once well combined, set the sauce aside. This will be used both as a drizzle for the salmon and as a dipping sauce.
Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut 1 ½ lbs of salmon fillets into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the skin is removed.
- Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the salmon pieces with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, and ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat).
- Coat Evenly: Ensure each salmon piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
Step 3: Air Fry the Salmon
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
- Cook the Salmon: Place the seasoned salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The salmon should be golden and crispy on the outside while tender and juicy on the inside.
Step 4: Serve the Salmon
- Drizzle the Sauce: Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the salmon bites.
- Serve: Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Pair with a side of steamed rice, a crisp salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: This Bang Bang Salmon is best served immediately after cooking to maintain its crispy texture. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
- Storage: Leftover salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp up the exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Helpful Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce according to your preferred spice level. You can omit the cayenne pepper for a milder dish.
- Air Fryer Capacity: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the salmon in batches. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking.
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the Bang Bang sauce.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “When cooking salmon, make sure to not overcook it. It’s better to slightly undercook and let the residual heat finish the job. This keeps the salmon juicy and tender.”
- Chef Jamie Oliver: “For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the salmon in the spice mix for 15-20 minutes before air frying. This will allow the spices to penetrate deeper into the fish.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon?
- Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- You can bake the salmon in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- How do I know when the salmon is done?
- The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Can I substitute the salmon with another fish?
- Yes, other firm fish like cod or mahi-mahi work well with this recipe.
- Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
- Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan or dairy-free alternative.
- What can I pair with Bang Bang Salmon?
- Serve it with jasmine rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Ensure all your ingredients, especially the Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha, are gluten-free.
- How spicy is this dish?
- It has a moderate kick, but you can adjust the spice level by altering the amount of sriracha and cayenne pepper.
- Can I grill the salmon instead of air frying?
- Yes, grilling the salmon adds a nice charred flavor. Grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side.
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and tang. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy!