Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful twist on the popular Bang Bang Shrimp, combining the creamy, spicy, and tangy signature sauce with tender, flaky salmon. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and want a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-seared, the salmon is topped with a zesty Bang Bang sauce that’s equal parts indulgent and irresistible.
Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests, Bang Bang Salmon is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. The creamy sauce, slightly spicy kick, and perfectly cooked salmon make this dish a standout on any menu.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Delicious Flavor: Combines creamy, tangy, and spicy elements for an unforgettable taste.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and nutritious ingredients.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose to bake, grill, or pan-sear the salmon.
- Family-Friendly: A flavorful dish that’s mild enough to please a crowd.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Keeps well and reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh lime wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a skillet over medium-high heat if pan-searing. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- To Bake: Place the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- To Grill: Place the salmon skin-side down on a well-oiled grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping carefully to avoid sticking.
- To Pan-Sear: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and rice vinegar or lime juice.
- Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha for heat or more sweet chili sauce for sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the cooked salmon fillets to a serving plate. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or lime wedges, if desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Ingredient Background
- Salmon: A nutrient-dense protein rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is tender, flavorful, and cooks quickly.
- Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy base for the sauce, balancing the spice with richness.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds a tangy sweetness and mild heat, providing the signature Bang Bang flavor.
- Sriracha: Brings a bold, spicy kick to the sauce; adjust to your heat preference.
- Honey: Optional but enhances the sauce with a touch of sweetness that complements the spice.
- Smoked Paprika: Elevates the salmon’s flavor with a smoky, earthy note.
Technique Tips
- Pat the Salmon Dry: Removing excess moisture ensures the seasoning adheres well and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Use a Thermometer: For perfectly cooked salmon, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Don’t Overcook: Salmon is best when tender and flaky. Remove it from heat just as it reaches the desired temperature.
- Make Sauce Ahead: Prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance to let the flavors meld. It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.
- Season Generously: The seasoning mix adds depth to the salmon’s flavor, so don’t be shy with it.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Bang Bang Salmon Bowls: Serve the salmon over steamed rice or quinoa, topped with shredded carrots, cucumber, and avocado.
- Salmon Tacos: Flake the salmon into pieces and serve in tortillas with cabbage slaw and extra Bang Bang sauce.
- Bang Bang Salmon Salad: Serve the fillets over mixed greens, adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of sauce as dressing.
- Sheet Pan Dinner: Bake the salmon alongside asparagus, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for an easy one-pan meal.
Additional Tips for Success
- Fresh Salmon: Use fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Control the Spice: Taste the Bang Bang sauce as you go, adjusting the sriracha and chili sauce to match your spice tolerance.
- Crispy Skin: If using skin-on salmon, cook skin-side down first to achieve a crispy, flavorful texture.
- Presentation Matters: Drizzle the sauce neatly or serve it on the side for a more polished look when entertaining.
Recipe Variations
- Honey Garlic Bang Bang Salmon: Replace sriracha with garlic chili paste and add extra honey for a sweeter, garlicky twist.
- Coconut Bang Bang Sauce: Substitute half the mayonnaise with coconut milk for a tropical flair.
- Lemon Pepper Bang Bang Salmon: Add lemon zest and black pepper to the seasoning for a citrusy, peppery kick.
- Bang Bang Salmon Bites: Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the sauce for a party appetizer.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Use the Bang Bang sauce on roasted cauliflower steaks or tofu for a plant-based version.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftover salmon and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat salmon gently in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for 10-15 minutes or in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked, seasoned salmon fillets for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Low-Fat Sauce: Use Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise instead of regular mayo for a lighter sauce.
- Reduced Sugar: Skip the honey and use sugar-free sweet chili sauce for a low-sugar option.
- Whole-Grain Sides: Pair with quinoa, farro, or brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber.
- Extra Veggies: Serve with a side of roasted broccoli, zucchini, or a crisp green salad.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Date Night Dinner: Pair with garlic butter asparagus and mashed potatoes for a romantic meal.
- Casual Family Meal: Serve with fluffy white rice and a simple cucumber salad for a balanced dinner.
- Dinner Party Entrée: Plate each fillet individually with garnishes and sides for an elegant presentation.
- Meal Prep: Pack salmon, rice, and steamed vegetables into containers for ready-to-go lunches.
Special Equipment
- Nonstick Skillet or Grill: Ensures even cooking and easy flipping.
- Baking Sheet: For roasting the salmon if baking.
- Whisk: To combine the sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Meat Thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked salmon every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the sriracha or omit it entirely for a milder flavor. - Can I use frozen salmon?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen salmon fillets in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. - What other fish can I use?
This recipe works well with trout, cod, or halibut. Adjust cooking time based on thickness. - Can I grill the salmon?
Yes, grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. - How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Whisk thoroughly and use fresh mayonnaise for the best consistency. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free. Use vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based option. - What sides go best with Bang Bang Salmon?
Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a light salad are excellent pairings. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful, versatile dish that elevates the classic Bang Bang sauce to new heights. Combining perfectly cooked salmon with a creamy, spicy sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a quick weeknight meal, or preparing for meal prep, Bang Bang Salmon delivers on all fronts. Customize the spice, pair with your favorite sides, and enjoy a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Happy cooking!
Print
Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skin-on or skinless)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a skillet over medium-high heat if pan-searing. For grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat.
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon
- To Bake: Place the salmon fillets on a parchment-lined baking sheet, skin-side down. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
- To Grill: Place the salmon skin-side down on a well-oiled grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping carefully to avoid sticking.
- To Pan-Sear: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the salmon skin-side down for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and rice vinegar or lime juice.
- Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha for heat or more sweet chili sauce for sweetness.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the cooked salmon fillets to a serving plate. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over each fillet.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or lime wedges, if desired.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salmon fillet
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g