Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon

The first time I made Bang Bang Salmon, I was taken back by how a simple dish could bring so much joy to the table. It was a warm summer evening, and I wanted something quick yet flavorful that would impress my family. As the aroma of the salmon filled the kitchen, I couldn’t help but smile as I recalled my friends raving about this dish the last time I served it. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors—the creamy sauce complemented the tender fish perfectly. It became an instant favorite!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
22 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
12 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
38 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
18 g
Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Baking Sheet

What You’ll Enjoy About This Bang Bang Salmon

Flavor Bomb

One of the standout features of Bang Bang Salmon is its incredible flavor profile. The combination of sweet chili sauce, sriracha sauce, and mayonnaise creates a creamy, spicy, and tangy sauce that coats the salmon beautifully. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a dish everyone craves.

Quick and Easy

I love how Bang Bang Salmon is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a gourmet meal ready in under thirty minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests.

Healthy Choice

Salmon is known for its health benefits and is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health. By making Bang Bang Salmon, you can enjoy a tasty meal that aligns with your health goals, all while treating your taste buds.

Versatile Dish

Bang Bang Salmon is incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it on a bed of rice, alongside sautéed vegetables, or with a fresh salad, it adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep too; you can easily double the recipe for leftovers.

Impressive Presentation

Finally, let’s talk about presentation. A beautifully cooked piece of salmon topped with a homemade sauce and garnished with green onions looks stunning on any plate. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress both family and friends.

Bang Bang Salmon Ingredients

Bang Bang Salmon

When it comes to creating Bang Bang Salmon, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving the fantastic flavors that make this dish memorable. The main players here are fresh salmon fillets, a blend of flavorful sauces, and a sprinkle of spices. Together, they create a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

  • 4 salmon fillets (about 2 pounds, skins on): Fresh salmon is the star of this dish, providing a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health.
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon without overpowering it.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce that binds the flavors together.
  • 1 tablespoon honey: Provides natural sweetness that balances the heat from the sauces.
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: A key ingredient that gives Bang Bang Salmon its signature sweet and spicy flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce: For those who love a bit of heat, adjust the amount to your spice preference.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt: To finely season the sauce and enhance its overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds: These add a wonderful crunch and nutty aroma when sprinkled on top.
  • Chopped green onion: A fresh garnish that brings color and a mild onion flavor to the dish.

How to Cook Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon

Cooking Bang Bang Salmon is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Follow these steps to create a dish that will surely become a family favorite.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for cooking the salmon evenly without drying it out. Ensuring your oven is preheated is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky texture.

  2. Season the salmon fillets with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This simple seasoning elevates the natural flavors of the fish, giving it a delicious base before adding the sauce.

  3. Place the seasoned salmon skin side down in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Ensure they are spaced out slightly for even cooking.

  4. In a small bowl, add ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sesame seeds. Whisk the sauce ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This sauce will add layers of flavor to your salmon, making each bite irresistible.

  5. Brush half of the bang bang sauce on the salmon filets and reserve the rest for later. Ensure each fillet is generously coated as this will enhance the flavor profile during cooking.

  6. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the salmon is opaque in color. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking. You want the salmon to be fork-tender and moist.

  7. Brush the salmon with the reserved bang bang sauce and broil on high for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds a delightful caramelization to the surface of the fish, enhancing both flavor and texture.

  8. Remove the salmon from the oven when the center reads around 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will continue to cook slightly after being taken out. It should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked.

  9. Garnish with chopped green onion, and serve with rice or your favorite side dish. This final touch brings a fresh flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of your salmon to ensure it’s fully cooked. A thermometer is a great tool for this.
  • Choosing Salmon: Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible; it’s typically more flavorful and sustainable than farmed varieties.
  • Marinating Time: For extra flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the sauce for about 30 minutes before baking.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, maintaining their flavor and texture.

Recipe Tips about Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon

Here are some tips to ensure your Bang Bang Salmon is a hit every time you make it!

  • Storage: Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to keep it fresh.
  • Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to two months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautĂ©ed vegetables, or a fresh salad, balancing the richness of the salmon.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce based on your heat preference. You can even omit it for a milder version.
  • Garnish: For added flavor and color, sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top just before serving.

Great Combinations for Bang Bang Salmon

Serving Bang Bang Salmon is all about creating a balanced and appealing meal. Here are some delightful combinations to consider:

  • Steamed Rice: Serve over fluffy white or jasmine rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
  • SautĂ©ed Vegetables: Pair with seasonal vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a vibrant and nutritious side.
  • Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the salmon beautifully.
  • Occasions: Bang Bang Salmon makes a fantastic centerpiece for dinner parties or casual weeknight meals, impressing guests and family alike.
  • Storage Tips: Leftovers are great for lunch the next day; just reheat gently in the microwave.

FAQ

While the exact origin is hard to pinpoint, Bang Bang Salmon is inspired by Asian flavors, particularly the combination of sweet and spicy sauces commonly used in Asian cuisine. The dish has gained popularity in various forms across different cultures, often celebrated for its delicious balance of flavors.

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and marinate the salmon for extra flavor. However, it’s recommended to cook the salmon fresh for the best texture. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Absolutely! Salmon is a nutritious fish that’s high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. When prepared with the right ingredients, Bang Bang Salmon can be a part of a balanced diet, especially when served with vegetables or a fresh salad.

Bang Bang Salmon pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with quinoa or couscous for a hearty meal. The versatility of this dish allows you to get creative with your sides!

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is a remarkable dish that brings together unique flavors and a simple cooking process to create something truly special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. So why not give it a try tonight? You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!

Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon

The ultimate comfort food, Bang Bang Salmon is a deliciously creamy and spicy dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavor, this easy recipe will become a family favorite in no time!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 fillets Salmon about 2 pounds, skins on
  • ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black pepper
  • ¼ cup Mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 2 tablespoons Sweet chili sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce or more to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame seeds or more for garnish
  • Chopped green onion for garnish

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for cooking the salmon evenly without drying it out. Ensuring your oven is preheated is crucial for achieving that perfect flaky texture.
  2. Season the salmon fillets with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This simple seasoning elevates the natural flavors of the fish, giving it a delicious base before adding the sauce.
  3. Place the seasoned salmon skin side down in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Ensure they are spaced out slightly for even cooking.
  4. In a small bowl, add ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce, ¼ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon sesame seeds. Whisk the sauce ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This sauce will add layers of flavor to your salmon, making each bite irresistible.
  5. Brush half of the bang bang sauce on the salmon filets and reserve the rest for later. Ensure each fillet is generously coated as this will enhance the flavor profile during cooking.
  6. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the salmon is opaque in color. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking. You want the salmon to be fork-tender and moist.
  7. Brush the salmon with the reserved bang bang sauce and broil on high for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds a delightful caramelization to the surface of the fish, enhancing both flavor and texture.
  8. Remove the salmon from the oven when the center reads around 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The salmon will continue to cook slightly after being taken out. It should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat, ensuring it's perfectly cooked.
  9. Garnish with chopped green onion, and serve with rice or your favorite side dish. This final touch brings a fresh flavor and a pop of color to your plate.

Notes

Here are some tips to ensure your Bang Bang Salmon is a hit every time you make it!
  • Storage: Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to keep it fresh.
  • Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked salmon for up to two months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
  • Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautĂ©ed vegetables, or a fresh salad, balancing the richness of the salmon.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of sriracha sauce based on your heat preference. You can even omit it for a milder version.
  • Garnish: For added flavor and color, sprinkle additional sesame seeds on top just before serving.

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