Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of fresh salmon with a crispy breadcrumb coating, creating an exciting and visually captivating dish. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The beautiful colors of the ingredients, topped with vibrant garnishes, will have everyone reaching for more.

When you take a bite of these salmon bites, expect a mouthwatering crunch followed by a burst of flavor from the tangy Bang Bang sauce. Each bite offers a delightful mix of spice and creaminess, making for a truly satisfying experience. In this article, you’ll learn not only how to prepare these amazing bites but also how to serve them beautifully and customize them to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: All components are fresh and vibrant, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Ease of Preparation: Simple steps make this dish approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
Nutrition: Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making these bites a healthy choice.
Versatility: Enjoy them alone or as part of a larger meal; they adapt to any setting.
Presentation: The colorful assembly adds a touch of elegance to your table.

With so much to love, you’re bound to make these again and again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

▢ 1 lb fresh salmon (skinless and cut into bite-sized cubes)
▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
▢ 1 tsp smoked paprika
▢ ½ tsp salt
▢ ½ tsp black pepper
▢ 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
▢ 1 tbsp olive oil or spray for crisping
▢ ½ cup mayonnaise
▢ 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
▢ 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to spice level)
▢ 1 tsp honey (optional)
▢ Juice of ½ lime
▢ 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (or cauliflower rice)
▢ 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
▢ 1 avocado (sliced)
▢ ½ cup shredded carrots
▢ 2 green onions (sliced)
▢ Fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish

How To Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Preheat Oven or Air Fryer: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to the recommended setting.
Season the Salmon: In a mixing bowl, combine salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat the salmon evenly.
Coat in Breadcrumbs: Place panko breadcrumbs in a separate bowl. Dip each piece of seasoned salmon in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Bake or Air-Fry: Arrange the coated salmon bites on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil or use spray for crisping. Bake for 12-15 minutes or air-fry for about 10 minutes until golden crispy.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (if using), and lime juice until smooth.
Assemble the Bowls: In serving bowls, layer the jasmine rice, top with salmon bites, and garnish with purple cabbage, avocado slices, shredded carrots, green onions, cilantro, and sesame seeds. Drizzle with Bang Bang sauce.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls to showcase the vibrant ingredients.
Accompaniments: Pair with additional lime wedges or extra sauce for dipping.
Portions: These bites are small, so plan for about 4-6 pieces per person.
Beverage Pairing: Refreshing iced tea or a light white wine complements the dish well.

Your guests will love the combination of flavors and textures!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salmon mixture for an extra kick.
Customization: Swap out salmon for shrimp or chicken to enjoy different flavors.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Bang Bang: Increase the sriracha in the sauce for a spicier version.
Asian-Inspired: Add sesame oil to the sauce for deeper flavor.
Crispy Tofu: Use cubed tofu instead of salmon for a vegetarian alternative.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For freezing, place salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Special Equipment

Baking sheet or air fryer basket
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Measuring spoons
Serving bowls

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen salmon? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry before seasoning and coating.
Is this recipe healthy? Absolutely! Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, and the veggies enhance nutrition.
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, prepare the bites and sauce ahead, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
How can I customize these salmon bites? Feel free to adjust spices or swap out proteins as you like.
Are there alternative cooking methods? Yes, you can pan-fry them in a little oil if you’d prefer that method.

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Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are not only delicious but also simple to make, bursting with vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. They are perfect for various occasions, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. With these delightful bites, your family and friends will be impressed. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy creating this scrumptious dish!