Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites will become your new favorite:
- Deliciously Crispy: The salmon is perfectly seasoned and cooked to create a crispy exterior, while remaining juicy and tender inside.
- Bang Bang Sauce: The creamy, tangy, and spicy bang bang sauce takes these salmon bites to the next level.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, these bites are simple to make and perfect for a busy weeknight.
- Healthy Option: With heart-healthy omega-3s from the salmon, these bites are a flavorful yet nutritious choice.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level of the sauce or seasoning to suit your personal taste.
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
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a large bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the salmon is evenly coated.
- Spread the salmon pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is golden and crispy around the edges, and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the salmon is baking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste), and a pinch of salt.
- Once the salmon bites are ready, drizzle the bang bang sauce over the top, or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 servings
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Variation: Adjust the sriracha level in the bang bang sauce for more heat, or add extra chili flakes to the seasoning blend.
- Crispier Bites: If you prefer extra crispy salmon, try coating the salmon pieces with panko breadcrumbs before baking for an added crunch.
- Alternative Protein: You can also make these bites with other firm fish, like cod or tilapia, for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes to maintain crispiness. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels before cutting and seasoning.
How do I make the sauce less spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply use less sriracha or replace it with a milder hot sauce. You can also add more mayonnaise to tone it down.
Can I fry the salmon instead of baking it?
Yes, you can pan-fry the salmon bites for a crispy texture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the salmon for 3-4 minutes per side.
How can I make the salmon more flavorful?
Feel free to add extra seasoning to the salmon or marinate it for a few hours before cooking for a more intense flavor.
What can I serve with Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
These bites pair well with a side of rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make these salmon bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salmon and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Drizzle the sauce on just before serving to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze these salmon bites?
It’s best to freeze the salmon without the sauce. You can freeze the baked salmon pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Can I use a different sauce for these bites?
Yes, you can experiment with different sauces, such as a garlic butter sauce, teriyaki sauce, or even a lemon aioli.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
You can substitute sweet chili sauce with a combination of honey and chili garlic sauce for a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
How do I prevent the salmon from drying out?
To keep the salmon moist, make sure not to overcook it. Bake just until the salmon flakes easily and remains tender.
Conclusion
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a perfect balance of crunchy, tender salmon and a creamy, spicy sauce that adds a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these bites are sure to impress. Quick to make, full of flavor, and easily customizable, they’re a must-try for any salmon lover!
Print
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites offer the perfect combination of crispy salmon, savory seasoning, and a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy, flavorful dish is ideal as an appetizer, snack, or main course. The tender salmon, crispy on the outside, and tangy sauce make every bite irresistible!
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
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
- Spread the salmon pieces in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crispy around the edges and flaky inside.
- Meanwhile, prepare the bang bang sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
- Once the salmon is ready, drizzle the sauce over the bites or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the bites in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked salmon without the sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American