Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious fish recipe that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than Bang Bang Salmon. This dish combines tender salmon filet with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce, and it’s served with a refreshing avocado cucumber salsa. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and pairs wonderfully with cooked rice. Here’s everything you need to know to create this delightful meal.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds salmon filet
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
Vegetable of choice (e.g., avocado cucumber salsa)
Avocado Cucumber Salsa:
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cucumber, diced
Handful of chopped cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon honey
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 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 all-purpose 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 the diced avocado, diced cucumber, chopped cilantro, lime juice, pinch of salt, and 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 the avocado cucumber salsa or another vegetable of choice on the side.
Note: If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix, you can make a simple version by combining coarse kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Enjoy your Bang Bang Salmon with its vibrant toppings and sides!
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 all-purpose 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 the diced avocado, diced cucumber, chopped cilantro, lime juice, pinch of salt, and 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 the avocado cucumber salsa or another vegetable of choice on the side.
Notes
All-Purpose Seasoning Alternative:
If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix, you can make a simple version by combining coarse kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better sear and texture. Optionally, cut the salmon into individual portions for even cooking and easier serving.
Coating the Salmon
Use an all-purpose seasoning mix to enhance the flavor of the salmon. Ensure even coverage for a consistent taste throughout.
Baking the Salmon
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for optimal cooking conditions. Bake the salmon for 10 minutes, then switch to broil for 2-3 minutes to create a golden, caramelized top.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and soy sauce in a bowl for a creamy and spicy topping. Save half of the sauce for later use to maintain freshness.
Preparing the Avocado Cucumber Salsa
Mix diced avocado, cucumber, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and honey in a bowl. Gently combine to keep the avocado intact while creating a refreshing side dish.
Serving the Dish
Serve the baked salmon over a bed of cooked rice. Add the reserved bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of chili crisp for added texture. Pile on the avocado cucumber salsa or your choice of vegetables on the side for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I use other types of fish instead of salmon?
Yes, you can substitute salmon with other fish like cod, tilapia, or trout, although cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the fillets.
What can I use if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing honey with hot sauce to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate more chili crisp, or mix in some red pepper flakes or sriracha into the bang bang sauce.
Is it necessary to broil the salmon?
Broiling is not necessary, but it enhances the texture and flavor by caramelizing the sauce. If you prefer a softer topping, you can skip this step.
Can I prepare the avocado cucumber salsa in advance?
It’s best to prepare the salsa just before serving, as avocados brown quickly. If made in advance, store it in an airtight container with lime juice to slow down oxidation.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Salmon recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors with the creamy, mildly spicy sauce perfectly complementing the tender salmon. Paired with the fresh and zesty avocado cucumber salsa, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon
Marinate the salmon in a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce, bake it, and serve with steamed broccoli and a side of jasmine rice.
Spicy Mango Salsa
Replace the avocado cucumber salsa with a spicy mango salsa made with diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro for a fruity kick.
Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon
Substitute the bang bang sauce with a honey garlic glaze for a sweeter flavor profile, served with quinoa and roasted asparagus.
Asian Slaw
Pair the salmon with a crunchy Asian slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, and a sesame vinaigrette for added texture and flavor.
Quinoa Salad
Serve the salmon with a quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette for a Mediterranean twist.
