Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a perfect quick dinner that brings bold flavors and satisfying crunch to your weeknight table. This recipe combines crispy salmon cubes with a creamy spicy sauce and fresh vegetables for a balanced, delicious meal that feels special without a lot of fuss.

I first made this after spotting fresh salmon on sale and wanted something different from the usual grilled fillets. It quickly became a favorite for casual dinners and even packed lunches.

Ingredients

• Fresh salmon: cubed for tenderness and flavor it’s important to use skinless pieces for even crisping
• Garlic powder: adds a savory backbone that complements the fish
• Smoked paprika: brings a subtle smoky depth without overpowering
• Panko breadcrumbs: create a light crispy crust important for texture contrast
• Olive oil or spray: helps the coating brown beautifully without heavy frying
• Mayonnaise: forms the creamy base of the sauce choose one with good quality olive oil if possible
• Sweet chili sauce and sriracha: balance sweet and spicy notes adjust sriracha to control heat level
• Lime juice: adds brightness that cuts through the richness
• Cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice: serves as a fluffy neutral base for the bowl
• Fresh vegetables: like shredded purple cabbage avocado and carrots bring color freshness and crunch
• Green onions cilantro and sesame seeds: finish with herbal and nutty accents

Instructions

Preheat Oven or Air Fryer:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or your air fryer to 390 degrees so your salmon bakes evenly and crisps up nicely

Season the Salmon:

Place salmon cubes in a mixing bowl and toss with garlic powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper making sure each piece is coated for balanced flavor

Coat in Breadcrumbs:

Press each salmon piece into panko breadcrumbs gently so they stick well without falling apart spray lightly with olive oil to promote crispiness during cooking

Bake or Air-Fry:

For the oven lay the salmon pieces on parchment-lined baking tray bake 12 to 14 minutes checking for golden color and a crispy crust In the air fryer cook in batches at 390 degrees for about 8 to 10 minutes flipping halfway to ensure even cooking and crunch

Make the Bang Bang Sauce:

Whisk mayonnaise sweet chili sauce sriracha lime juice and honey in a bowl until smooth and creamy adjusting spice levels to your liking

Assemble the Bowls:

Start with a scoop of jasmine or cauliflower rice then layer shredded cabbage sliced avocado shredded carrots and finally the crispy salmon bites Drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce and garnish with sliced green onions fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for flavor and presentation

Storage tips Store leftover salmon bites and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days to keep crispness and flavor Reheat salmon in the oven or air fryer briefly to bring back crunch avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess Keep the fresh veggies and rice separate until serving to retain their texture

Ingredient swaps

Try swapping salmon for firm white fish or chicken for variety or to suit what you have on hand Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce with tanginess Swap panko for crushed nuts or seeds for a different crunch profile or to make it nutty

Serving ideas

Serve over mixed greens instead of rice for a low-carb option Add pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast Offer lime wedges on the side to brighten each bite with fresh acidity

Seasonal twists

Incorporate thinly sliced radishes or cucumbers in spring for crunch and freshness Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or pepitas in fall for a nutty boost Add diced mango or pineapple in summer for a sweet tropical twist

This recipe’s balance of texture and flavor makes it a go-to for busy nights or special lunches. Give it a try and enjoy a fresh twist on salmon that delights every bite.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What type of salmon works best for this dish?

Fresh, skinless salmon cut into bite-sized cubes is ideal to ensure even cooking and tender bites.

→ Can I air fry the salmon bites instead of baking them?

Yes, air frying at 390°F for 8–10 minutes crisps the salmon nicely and shortens cooking time.

→ How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce, and can it be adjusted?

The sauce has a moderate heat from sriracha, which you can adjust to taste. Honey is added to balance the spice with sweetness.

→ What can I use instead of jasmine rice in the bowls?

Cauliflower rice is a great low-carb alternative that complements the fresh vegetables and salmon bites.

→ How do I ensure the salmon bites stay crispy after cooking?

Pressing the salmon firmly into panko and spraying lightly with oil before baking or air frying helps achieve a crisp crust.