Save to Pinterest Bang Bang Salmon is a vibrant, zesty dish that brings a fusion of bold flavors to your dinner table in just 25 minutes. This easy weeknight meal features succulent salmon fillets topped with a signature creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that provides a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Whether you are looking for a quick healthy dinner or a impressive main course for guests, this recipe is a reliable favorite.
Save to Pinterest The magic of this dish lies in the Bang Bang sauce—a staple of fusion cuisine that elevates simple seafood into something extraordinary. By seasoning the salmon with smoked paprika and garlic before cooking, you create a savory base that perfectly complements the glossy, vibrant sauce. It's a customizable meal where you can easily dial the spice level up or down to suit your family's palate.
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- Optional: Chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking, or preheat your grill or skillet to medium or medium-high heat as desired.
- Step 2: Season the Salmon
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush each fillet with olive oil, then season evenly with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Cook the Salmon
- To Bake: Place fillets skin-side down on a parchment-lined sheet for 12–15 minutes (internal temp 145°F). To Grill: Cook skin-side down on an oiled grill for 4–5 minutes per side. To Pan-Sear: Cook skin-side down in a nonstick skillet for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes.
- Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- While the salmon cooks, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey or maple syrup (if using), and rice vinegar or lime juice in a small bowl. Adjust the spice and sweetness to your preference.
- Step 5: Assemble
- Transfer the cooked salmon to serving plates and drizzle generously with the prepared Bang Bang sauce.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The Bang Bang sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making your weeknight dinner even faster. Always ensure you pat the salmon dry before seasoning; this helps the oil and spices adhere and results in a better sear or flake. For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon stays moist and tender.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version of this recipe, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you enjoy a bit of texture, try topping the salmon with crispy fried onions or crushed toasted peanuts for an extra crunch. To keep the dish strictly gluten-free, always double-check the labels on your sweet chili sauce and sriracha.
Serviervorschläge
This zesty salmon pairs beautifully with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the extra sauce. For a lower-carb option, serve it over a fresh green salad or with steamed bok choy. The addition of fresh lime wedges is highly recommended to add a bright, acidic pop that cuts through the creaminess of the sauce.
Save to Pinterest With its striking presentation and restaurant-quality taste, Bang Bang Salmon is guaranteed to become a new staple in your culinary rotation. It is the perfect marriage of simple preparation and sophisticated flavor, providing a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Happy cooking!
Common Recipe Questions
- → What does Bang Bang sauce taste like?
Bang Bang sauce features a creamy mayonnaise base balanced with sweet chili sauce, spicy sriracha, and tangy rice vinegar or lime juice. The result is a rich, zesty sauce with layers of sweet heat and a subtle tang that pairs perfectly with salmon's natural richness.
- → Can I make Bang Bang salmon ahead of time?
The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored refrigerated in an airtight container. However, salmon tastes best when freshly cooked. You can season the fillets ahead and refrigerate them for several hours before cooking, then prepare the sauce while the salmon cooks.
- → What cooking method works best for this salmon?
All three methods yield excellent results. Baking at 400°F for 12–15 minutes is hands-off and great for even cooking. Pan-searing creates crispy skin, while grilling adds a smoky char. Choose based on your preference and available equipment—the seasoning and sauce complement each method beautifully.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Control the heat by varying the sriracha amount—start with 1 teaspoon for mild flavor or increase to 2–3 teaspoons for more kick. Adding extra honey or maple syrup tempers the spice, while additional sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper amplifies it. Taste and adjust the sauce before serving.
- → What sides pair well with Bang Bang salmon?
Fluffy jasmine rice or nutty quinoa soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. Steamed bok choy, sautéed snap peas, or a crisp cucumber salad provide fresh contrast. For something heartier, try roasted sweet potatoes or garlic noodles. The dish also works over mixed greens for a lighter meal.
- → Can I make a lighter version of the sauce?
Absolutely. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to reduce calories while maintaining creaminess. You can also use light mayonnaise or a combination of yogurt and mayo. The sauce will still deliver that signature tangy-spicy flavor with a slightly lighter texture.