Introduction
Bang Bang Salmon is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. With its creamy bang bang sauce and a touch of heat from chili crisp, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Paired with fluffy rice and a refreshing avocado cucumber salsa, it offers a complete and satisfying meal that’s ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 pounds salmon fillet
– 1–2 tablespoons all-purpose seasoning mix
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
– 1 clove garlic, grated
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Chili crisp for topping
For Serving:
– Cooked rice
– Avocado cucumber salsa
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the salmon dry and cut into individual portions if desired.
Coat the salmon with the seasoning mix.
Place the seasoned salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and soy sauce.
Set aside half of the sauce for serving.
3. Bake the Salmon:
Spread a small spoonful of the prepared sauce over each piece of salmon.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
4. Prepare the Avocado Cucumber Salsa:
In a bowl, combine 1 diced avocado, 1/2 diced cucumber, a handful of chopped cilantro, juice of 1 lime, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon honey.
Mix gently to combine.
5. Serve:
Serve the baked salmon over cooked rice.
Top with the reserved bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of chili crisp.
Add a generous portion of the avocado cucumber salsa on the side.
Note: If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix, you can make a simple one by combining coarse kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Salmon:
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Pat the salmon dry and cut into individual portions if desired.
– Coat the salmon with the seasoning mix.
– Place the seasoned salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
– In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and soy sauce.
– Set aside half of the sauce for serving.
Bake the Salmon:
– Spread a small spoonful of the prepared sauce over each piece of salmon.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
– Switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Avocado Cucumber Salsa:
– In a bowl, combine 1 diced avocado, 1/2 diced cucumber, a handful of chopped cilantro, juice of 1 lime, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon honey.
– Mix gently to combine.
Serve:
– Serve the baked salmon over cooked rice.
– Top with the reserved bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of chili crisp.
– Add a generous portion of the avocado cucumber salsa on the side.
Notes
If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix:
– You can make a simple one by combining coarse kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry for better seasoning adherence. Cut the fillet into portions if desired to ensure even cooking and easier serving.
Coating the Salmon
Use an all-purpose seasoning mix to enhance the flavor of the salmon. Ensure an even coating for a consistent flavor profile.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
Combine mayonnaise with sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and soy sauce to create a creamy, tangy sauce. Reserve half for drizzling on the finished dish.
Baking the Salmon
Bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes and then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. This method helps achieve a nice golden crust while keeping the fish tender.
Preparing the Avocado Cucumber Salsa
Gently combine diced avocado, cucumber, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and honey. Mix lightly to maintain the texture of the avocado.
Serving
Serve the baked salmon over cooked rice, drizzled with reserved sauce and topped with chili crisp. Pair with the salsa for added freshness.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.
What other sauces can I use instead of the Bang Bang sauce?
You can use tartar sauce or a honey mustard sauce as an alternative.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the sauce?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free option.
What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
You can make a quick substitute using a mix of ketchup and sugar or honey for sweetness.
How do I store leftover salmon?
Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of salmon with a zesty sauce and refreshing avocado cucumber salsa. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it balances creamy, spicy, and tangy elements, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Try marinating shrimp in a similar sweet chili and garlic sauce and serve in corn tortillas with avocado and cabbage slaw for a fresh twist.
Bang Bang Cauliflower
For a vegetarian option, toss cauliflower florets in the Bang Bang sauce and bake until crispy. Serve with the same avocado cucumber salsa for a delicious appetizer or side.
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken
Replace salmon with chicken thighs and glaze them with a homemade teriyaki sauce, serving the dish over jasmine rice with sautéed vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Spiced Quinoa Salad
Serve a side of spiced quinoa mixed with diced bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime dressing for extra zest; it complements the Bang Bang Salmon nicely.
Garlic Butter Tilapia
For a lighter alternative, use tilapia prepared with garlic butter and lemon juice, paired with the avocado cucumber salsa for a refreshing balance.
Fruit Salsa
Make a sweet fruit salsa using mango, pineapple, and jalapeño for a tropical complement to the spiced salmon, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.
