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Bang Bang Salmon: A Sweet, Spicy, and Creamy Seafood Favorite
If you’re looking for a salmon recipe that’s bold, exciting, and incredibly easy to make, Bang Bang Salmon deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. This dish combines tender, flaky salmon with a rich, creamy sauce that balances sweetness, heat, and tang in every bite. Inspired by the popular bang bang sauce often paired with shrimp, this salmon version elevates a simple weeknight protein into a restaurant-worthy meal.
Bang bang salmon is perfect for busy evenings, casual entertaining, or anytime you want something that feels indulgent without being complicated. It comes together quickly, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or fresh salads. Whether you bake it, pan-sear it, or air-fry it, this dish adapts effortlessly to your cooking style.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about bang bang salmon—from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to expert tips, variations, and serving ideas. By the end, you’ll not only know how to make it, but how to make it exceptionally well.
What Is Bang Bang Salmon?
Bang bang salmon is a modern fusion dish inspired by bang bang shrimp, a popular appetizer known for its creamy, sweet-spicy sauce. The sauce typically blends mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha, creating a bold flavor profile that’s addictive yet balanced.
When paired with salmon, the sauce enhances the fish’s natural richness while adding layers of heat and sweetness. The result is a dish that feels comforting, vibrant, and satisfying all at once. Unlike heavily breaded seafood, bang bang salmon keeps the focus on the fish itself, making it a great option for those who want flavor without heaviness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish
- Bold flavors: Sweet, spicy, creamy, and savory in perfect balance
- Versatile: Works with baked, pan-seared, grilled, or air-fried salmon
- Crowd-pleaser: Familiar flavors that appeal to both spice lovers and beginners
- Healthy-ish indulgence: Salmon provides protein and healthy fats while still feeling decadent
Ingredients for Bang Bang Salmon
- Fresh salmon fillets (skin on or off)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
Bang Bang Sauce:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet chili sauce
- Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Honey or sugar
- Fresh lime juice
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the salmon:
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. - Make the bang bang sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness as desired. - Cook the salmon:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and place the salmon fillets in the pan, flesh side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and crisp, then flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until just cooked through. - Add the sauce:
Spoon a generous amount of bang bang sauce over each salmon fillet. Let it warm for about 30 seconds in the pan, allowing the sauce to slightly melt and coat the fish. - Finish and garnish:
Remove from heat and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Bang Bang Salmon
- Don’t overcook: Salmon cooks quickly. Remove it as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
- Customize the heat: Add more sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes if you like it spicy.
- Use quality salmon: Fresh, high-quality fillets make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Sauce control: You can drizzle lightly or smother generously—both work beautifully.
Variations and Cooking Methods
Baked Bang Bang Salmon:
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then broil briefly after adding sauce.
Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon:
Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, brushing with sauce near the end.
Grilled Bang Bang Salmon:
Grill over medium heat, brushing with sauce during the last few minutes.
Healthier Version:
Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Bang bang salmon pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Crunchy Asian-style slaw
- Quinoa or cauliflower rice for lighter meals
It also works beautifully in bowls, wraps, or tacos for a fun twist.
Cultural and Flavor Inspiration
While bang bang sauce has roots in Asian-inspired American cuisine, this salmon dish is a modern interpretation designed for versatility and approachability. It reflects the growing popularity of fusion cooking—combining familiar ingredients in new, exciting ways.
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Salmon is the kind of recipe that feels special without being complicated. It’s bold yet balanced, indulgent yet approachable, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to salmon recipe for busy nights and special occasions alike.
Bang Bang Salmon
Tender salmon fillets coated in a creamy, sweet, and spicy bang bang sauce for a quick, flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook salmon until flaky.
- Spoon bang bang sauce over salmon and heat briefly.
Notes
Adjust spice level to taste.
