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Bang Bang Salmon

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15–18 minutes

Total Time: 25–28 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American-Asian Fusion

Course: Main Course

Servings: 4

Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Salmon

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Bang Bang Sauce

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Garnish

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Fresh parsley
  • Lime wedges

Kitchen Equipment

  • Baking sheet or air fryer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Silicone brush
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps create a beautiful golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Brush each fillet with olive oil.

In a small bowl, combine:

  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Cayenne pepper

Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the salmon.

Allow the salmon to sit for about 10 minutes while preparing the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Sweet chili sauce
  • Sriracha
  • Honey
  • Rice vinegar
  • Garlic powder

Whisk until completely smooth and creamy.

Taste the sauce.

If you’d like it sweeter, add another teaspoon of honey.

If you enjoy more spice, stir in extra Sriracha.

Set aside half of the sauce for serving.

Step 3: Bake the Salmon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Arrange the salmon fillets skin-side down.

Bake for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness.

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Brush each fillet generously with Bang Bang sauce during the final 2 minutes of cooking.

Air Fryer Method

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (199°C).

Place the seasoned salmon into the basket.

Cook for 8–10 minutes.

Brush with Bang Bang sauce during the last minute.

Air frying gives the salmon a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

Serving Suggestions

Bang Bang Salmon pairs wonderfully with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice
  • Coconut rice
  • Garlic butter rice
  • Fried rice
  • Quinoa
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Stir-fried broccoli
  • Cucumber salad
  • Asian slaw
  • Rice noodles

Add extra Bang Bang sauce over the top just before serving.

Finish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon

  • Use fresh salmon whenever possible for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the fish, as it can become dry.
  • Pat the salmon dry before seasoning.
  • Save extra sauce for dipping vegetables or drizzling over rice.
  • Allow the salmon to rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking.

Variations

Extra Spicy

Add more Sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes.

Low-Carb

Serve over cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables.

Healthier Version

Replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

Crispy Version

Coat the salmon lightly with panko breadcrumbs before baking.

Honey Garlic

Increase the honey and add minced garlic for a sweeter flavor profile.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keep the extra Bang Bang sauce in a separate container for up to 5 days.

Reheating

Oven

Bake at 325°F (163°C) for about 8 minutes.

Air Fryer

Heat at 350°F (177°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Microwave

Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Avoid overheating to keep the salmon moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes. Thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.

Can I grill Bang Bang Salmon?

Absolutely. Grill over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, then brush with the sauce before serving.

Is Bang Bang sauce very spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat level. You can easily adjust the spice by increasing or reducing the Sriracha.

What other fish can I use?

This recipe also works well with cod, mahi-mahi, trout, tilapia, or halibut.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
  • Sodium: 610 mg
  • Potassium: 820 mg
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Approximately 2 g

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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