Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Amazing 30-Minute Appetizer

|
Facebook
Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Bang Bang Salmon Bites have become my absolute go-to for a quick and impressive appetizer, and I bet they’ll be yours too! The first time I tried making these, I was aiming for something new for a game night, and the combination of tender, flaky salmon with that creamy, spicy kick of the signature sauce was pure magic. The aroma of the seasoned salmon searing in the pan is enough to make your mouth water instantly. They’re so incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to whip up, making them the perfect “easy Bang Bang salmon appetizer” for any occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Get ready to fall in love with these amazing bites!

  • Incredible Taste: You’ll adore the perfect balance of tender, flaky salmon with a creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce that’s totally addictive.
  • Super Quick Prep: This is a truly quick Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe; you can have them ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Healthier Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3s, making this a delicious and more nutritious option compared to other fried appetizers.
  • Budget-Friendly Fun: It’s an affordable way to enjoy a restaurant-quality appetizer using simple, common ingredients.
  • Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will gobble these up, making them a guaranteed hit for family dinners or parties.
  • Versatile Appeal: Whether you’re looking for a spicy salmon bites recipe or a simple appetizer, these bites deliver on flavor and ease.
  • Easy to Make: The straightforward steps mean anyone can master these delicious salmon bites.

Bang Bang Salmon Bites Ingredients

Gathering these Bang Bang Salmon Bites ingredients is the first step to pure deliciousness. You’ll need about 1 ½ pounds salmon fillets, with the skin removed and cut into bite-sized pieces. For seasoning the salmon, grab 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. The magic of the sauce comes from ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce for that signature kick, 1 tablespoon honey for sweetness, and 1 tablespoon lime juice to brighten everything up. For garnish, fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped and sliced green onions are lovely additions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice touch.

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Let’s get these delicious bites cooking! It’s easier than you think to achieve that perfect crispy texture everyone loves.

  1. Step 1: Start by patting your salmon fillets completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting those crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites! Once dry, cut the salmon into uniform 1-inch cubes.
  2. Step 2: Place the salmon pieces in a medium bowl. Drizzle them with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Sprinkle generously with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and the optional ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little extra warmth. Toss everything gently with your hands or a spoon until each salmon piece is evenly coated.
  3. Step 3: Now for the star of the show – the sauce! In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon lime juice. Keep whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste it and adjust the sriracha or honey if you prefer more heat or sweetness.
  4. Step 4: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tiny splash of olive oil if your pan isn’t perfectly non-stick – just enough to coat the bottom. You want to hear a gentle sizzle when the salmon hits the pan.
  5. Step 5: Carefully place the seasoned salmon pieces into the hot skillet in a single layer. You might need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the salmon instead of searing it. Sear for about 2-3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust on the outside and for the salmon to be tender and just cooked through inside.
  6. Step 6: Once cooked, transfer the salmon bites to a plate lined with paper towels. This helps soak up any excess oil and keeps them perfectly crisp.
  7. Step 7: For the perfect finish on how to make Bang Bang Salmon Bites, gently toss the cooked salmon bites in the prepared sauce, or simply drizzle the sauce generously over the top.
  8. Step 8: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you like. Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites!

Bang Bang Salmon Bites Sauce Recipe

The iconic Bang Bang salmon bites with sauce get their signature flavor from a simple yet delicious blend. Just combine ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, 1 tablespoon honey, and 1 tablespoon lime juice in a bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sriracha and honey to your taste preference.

Pro Tips for the Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites

I’ve learned a few tricks to make sure these bites turn out perfectly every single time. Follow these tips for the ultimate flavor and texture!

  • Patting the salmon completely dry is non-negotiable for achieving a really crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites texture. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing. Cook the salmon in batches if needed. This ensures each piece gets a beautiful golden-brown sear rather than steaming.
  • Taste and adjust the sauce before coating. Everyone’s spice preference is different, so feel free to add more sriracha for heat or honey for sweetness.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, consider a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and some thinly sliced green onions right before serving.

What’s the secret to perfect Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

The absolute key to perfect, crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites is ensuring the salmon is patted extremely dry before searing. This allows the salmon to develop a beautiful golden crust instead of steaming in its own moisture.

Can I make Bang Bang Salmon Bites ahead of time?

You can prepare the salmon bites up to the point of cooking and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. The sauce can also be made ahead. However, for the best texture, it’s ideal to cook and sauce them just before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

The biggest mistake is not patting the salmon dry, leading to soggy bites. Another common pitfall is overcrowding the pan, which prevents proper searing. Lastly, overcooking the salmon will make it dry, so watch it closely!

Best Ways to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Bites

These versatile bites are fantastic for so many occasions! For easy Bang Bang Salmon Bites serving suggestions, consider serving them over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa. The rice soaks up any extra sauce beautifully. They also make a stunning appetizer when served with toothpicks or small forks, perhaps alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a more substantial meal, pair them with roasted broccoli or steamed asparagus for a healthy and delicious dinner.

Nutrition Facts for Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Let’s look at the Bang Bang Salmon Bites nutritional information for this delicious recipe. Keep in mind these are estimates per serving, as the recipe yields about 4 servings.

  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Properly storing your delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bites ensures you can enjoy them later, though they are truly best enjoyed fresh. Once cooked, let the salmon bites cool completely before storing. For the best results, place them in an airtight container. You can keep these tasty bites in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to reheat your easy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, the oven is your best friend for maintaining some crispiness. Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C). Spread the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet. Reheat for about 5-8 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve any of that lovely crispiness, as it tends to make them a bit soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Got questions about these irresistible bites? I’ve got answers!

What are Bang Bang Salmon Bites?

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are essentially bite-sized pieces of salmon that are typically coated in a seasoned flour or cornstarch mixture and then fried or baked until crispy. They’re famous for being tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy “bang bang” sauce, which gives them their signature flavor profile. It’s a popular appetizer that’s incredibly satisfying!

Bang Bang Shrimp vs Salmon Bites: What’s the difference?

The main difference lies in the protein! Bang Bang Shrimp uses plump shrimp, while these Bang Bang Salmon Bites feature tender, flaky salmon. Both are coated and tossed in the same iconic creamy, spicy sauce, but the texture and flavor of the seafood itself offer a slightly different experience. Salmon also brings a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids.

Can I use frozen salmon for these bites?

While fresh salmon is ideal for the best texture, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before you start. Pat it very dry, as this is key to achieving a crispy exterior, even when starting with frozen fish.

How can I make the sauce spicier or milder?

The beauty of homemade sauce is customization! For a spicier kick, simply add more sriracha sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture. If you prefer it milder, use less sriracha or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. You can also balance the heat with a touch more honey or a splash more lime juice.

Variations of Bang Bang Salmon Bites You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, why not get a little creative? There are so many fun ways to enjoy these flavorful bites!

  • Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites: For an incredibly quick and crispy result with less oil, try making these in your air fryer. Toss the seasoned salmon pieces with a little cooking spray, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Then toss with your favorite Bang Bang sauce.
  • Baked Bang Bang Salmon Bites: If you prefer a hands-off approach, baking is a great option. Arrange the seasoned salmon bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden. While they won’t be quite as crispy as pan-seared or air-fried, they’re still wonderfully delicious and easy.
  • Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon Bites: For a slightly different flavor profile, swap out the Thai sweet chili sauce for some honey garlic sauce and increase the sriracha for a sweet and spicy kick that’s irresistible.
  • Lemon Herb Salmon Bites: If you’re looking for a lighter, brighter flavor, skip the bang bang sauce and toss the cooked salmon bites with a mix of fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, dill, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Amazing 30-Minute Appetizer


  • Author: Jannet Lisa
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crispy and flavorful Bang Bang Salmon Bites coated in a creamy, spicy sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for an appetizer or a light meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ 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
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional)
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized cubes.
  2. In a bowl, drizzle the salmon pieces with olive oil. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust for heat and sweetness.
  4. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil.
  5. Place the salmon pieces in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy outside, and tender inside.
  6. Transfer cooked salmon bites to a plate lined with paper towels.
  7. Drizzle the sauce over the salmon bites or toss them in a bowl with the sauce.
  8. Garnish with parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For extra crispy salmon bites, ensure the salmon is patted very dry before cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce in the Bang Bang sauce to control the spice level.
  • These Bang Bang Salmon Bites are best served immediately after cooking and saucing.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Pan-Seared
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 310 kcal
  • Sugar: N/A
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: N/A
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: N/A
  • Fiber: N/A
  • Protein: N/A
  • Cholesterol: N/A

Keywords: Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe, Spicy salmon bites recipe, How to make Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Bang Bang salmon appetizer, Easy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Bang Bang salmon bites with sauce, Air fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Baked Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Bang Bang Salmon Bites ingredients, What are Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Best Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Bang Bang Salmon Bites calories, Bang Bang Salmon Bites nutritional information, Bang Bang Salmon Bites serving suggestions, Bang Bang Salmon Bites origin, Bang Bang Shrimp vs Salmon Bites, Bang Bang Salmon Bites sauce recipe, Quick Bang Bang Salmon Bites, Healthy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Keep Reading

Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese
|
by Jannet Lisa
Skinny Poolside Dip
|
by Jannet Lisa

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating