This Easy Bang Bang Salmon is a tasty dish that’s quick to whip up! With flaky salmon paired with a spicy, creamy sauce, it’s sure to impress your family. Yum!
There’s something satisfying about that spicy-sweet sauce that makes me want to have seconds (and maybe thirds!). I love serving it with rice for a perfect dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are the star here. You can also use skin-on, skinless, or even salmon steaks. If you have dietary restrictions, rainbow trout is a great alternative!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo provides creaminess, but you could swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Just adjust the flavors as yogurt is tangier.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, try mixing equal parts honey and ketchup for a similar sweet and tangy effect.
Sriracha: For less heat, use a touch of ketchup instead. If you love spice, try a dash of garlic chili sauce or even chili flakes in the bang bang sauce!
Fresh Veggies: Feel free to mix it up! Diced bell peppers or any crunchy veggies work well in the topping. They add extra texture and flavor.
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon can be tricky if you’re not familiar. Here’s a foolproof way to get it right:
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Pat the salmon dry with a paper towel—this helps achieve that beautiful sear.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down (or presentation side first if skinless) and don’t touch them for a couple of minutes to form a crust.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, so it remains flaky and tender.
Remember, wild salmon cooks faster than farmed salmon, so keep an eye on it!
Easy Bang Bang Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
For Toppings:
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Fresh cilantro or basil leaves, chopped (optional)
To Serve:
- Cooked white rice
- Roasted or grilled asparagus (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 12-15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking the salmon, or prepare a grill pan over medium-high heat if you prefer to sear it.
2. Season the Salmon:
While the oven or pan is heating up, season your salmon fillets with a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor beautifully!
3. Cooking the Salmon:
If using a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the salmon fillets in the pan and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Alternatively, if you’re baking, lay the seasoned salmon on a baking sheet and cook for 12-15 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
5. Prepare the Fresh Topping:
In another small bowl, combine the diced cucumber, red onion, tomatoes, and chopped herbs. This fresh topping brings a lovely crunch and brightness to the dish!
6. Plate Your Meal:
Place the cooked salmon on a bed of fluffy, cooked white rice. Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the salmon and around the plate for a fabulous presentation.
7. Add the Toppings:
Carefully top the salmon with the fresh cucumber-tomato mixture and sprinkle with sliced green onions for added flavor and garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally, serve the salmon alongside roasted or grilled asparagus for a complete meal experience. Enjoy your delicious, easy Bang Bang Salmon dinner!
This dish is sure to be a hit with its balance of spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors. Perfect for any weeknight dinner! Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Bang Bang Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen salmon fillets, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to ensure a nice sear!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The bang bang sauce can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using, as the ingredients may separate a bit.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to keep the salmon from drying out.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice?
If you’re looking for alternatives to rice, try serving the salmon with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even a fresh green salad for a lighter option. Roasted vegetables also make a great pairing!
