Introduction
Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful, flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of salmon with a spicy, creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. Served over fluffy rice and accompanied by a refreshing avocado cucumber salsa, this dish is both satisfying and visually appealing.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Salmon filet: 1 1/2 pounds
All-purpose seasoning mix: 1–2 tablespoons
Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
Sweet chili sauce: 2 tablespoons
Garlic, grated: 1 clove
Soy sauce: 1 teaspoon
Chili crisp: for topping
For Serving:
Cooked rice
Avocado cucumber salsa
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12–13 minutes
Total Time
27–28 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 until smooth. 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 salmon is golden brown and slightly caramelized on top.
4. Prepare the Avocado Cucumber Salsa:
In a bowl, combine 1 diced avocado, 1/2 diced cucumber, a handful of chopped cilantro, a bit of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Mix gently to combine.
5. Serve:
Serve the baked salmon over cooked rice. Top with the avocado cucumber salsa. Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the top. Add chili crisp to taste.
Note: If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix, you can make a simple version by combining 1 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt with some onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. This will enhance the flavor of the salmon and help the sauce adhere better.
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 until smooth.
– 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 salmon is golden brown and slightly caramelized on top.
Prepare the Avocado Cucumber Salsa:
– In a bowl, combine 1 diced avocado, 1/2 diced cucumber, a handful of chopped cilantro, a bit of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of honey.
– Mix gently to combine.
Serve:
– Serve the baked salmon over cooked rice.
– Top with the avocado cucumber salsa.
– Drizzle the reserved Bang Bang sauce over the top.
– Add chili crisp to taste.
Notes
All-Purpose Seasoning Alternative:
If you don’t have an all-purpose seasoning mix, you can make a simple version by combining 1 teaspoon of coarse kosher salt with some onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. This will enhance the flavor of the salmon and help the sauce adhere better.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Salmon
Pat the salmon dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear and prevent steaming. If desired, cut the filet into individual portions for even cooking and easier serving. Coating the salmon with an all-purpose seasoning mix enhances its flavor.
Making the Bang Bang Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, grated garlic, and soy sauce in a small bowl. Mixing these ingredients until smooth creates a creamy and flavorful sauce. Reserve half for later use to keep the flavors fresh for serving.
Baking the Salmon
Spread a small amount of the Bang Bang sauce on each piece of salmon before baking. This adds flavor and moisture as it cooks. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes followed by broiling for an additional 2-3 minutes gives the salmon a golden-brown, slightly caramelized finish.
Preparing the Avocado Cucumber Salsa
Dice avocado and cucumber, mix with chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and honey for a fresh, vibrant salsa. This ensures the flavors are well incorporated while being careful not to mash the avocado.
Serving the Dish
Place the baked salmon over cooked rice for a satisfying meal. Top with the avocado cucumber salsa and drizzle with the reserved Bang Bang sauce. Adding chili crisp provides an extra kick and texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.
What can I substitute for sweet chili sauce?
You can substitute sweet chili sauce with a mix of honey and sriracha to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
How do I know when the salmon is fully cooked?
The salmon should be opaque and easily flake with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the Bang Bang sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.
What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon aside from rice?
You can serve it with quinoa, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad to keep the meal light and nutritious.
Conclusion
The Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of baked salmon with a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. The addition of avocado cucumber salsa not only adds freshness but also complements the richness of the fish. Serve this dish over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and impressive enough for guests.
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