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Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

5 from 20 reviews

Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful salmon pieces coated with a smoky spice blend and tossed in a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, made healthier by air frying instead of deep frying. The salmon remains tender and juicy inside with a satisfying crunch outside, making it a delicious crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Bites

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless salmon filets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (reduce by half if using Morton’s salt)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Nonstick cooking spray or oil for the air fryer basket

Bang Bang Sauce

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon filets dry with paper towels. Cut the salmon into bite-sized 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and easy eating.
  2. Season the Salmon: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, granulated garlic, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the salmon pieces to the bowl and toss gently to coat all sides evenly with the spice mixture.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Air Fry the Salmon Bites: Arrange the salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
  5. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon cooks, prepare the sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less Sriracha according to your preference.
  6. Toss and Serve: Once the salmon bites are cooked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the bang bang sauce over the bites and toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. Serve immediately as an appetizer or on top of a salad or rice bowl for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the salmon bites at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through.
  • Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to control the heat level.
  • Use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the sweet chili sauce is gluten-free or substitute with a gluten-free chili sauce.
  • Leftover salmon bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: Bang Bang Salmon, Air Fryer Salmon Bites, Spicy Salmon Appetizer, Easy Salmon Recipe, Healthy Salmon Snacks