This Spicy Bang Bang Salmon blends crispy, tender salmon with a zesty, creamy sauce that packs a punch! It’s a quick and tasty dish perfect for any night of the week.
If you love a little heat, this dish is calling your name! I like to serve it over rice or with fresh veggies—it’s a plate of happiness! 🌶️✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon fillets are perfect for this recipe, as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use trout or even firm white fish like cod or tilapia.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking, but feel free to swap it for avocado oil or melted butter. Each addition gives a slightly different flavor to the dish.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This adds a nice balance of sweetness and spice. If you can’t find it, try mixing honey with a dash of hot sauce instead!
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo is creamy and delicious, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It adds creaminess but has less fat.
How Do I Make Sure My Salmon Turns Out Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but a few simple tips can help you nail it every time:
- Pat the fillets dry! This helps them sear better and get that crispy edge.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If cooking multiple fillets, make sure there’s space between them; this ensures even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat for searing. You want a good sizzle when the salmon hits the pan!
- Check for doneness: Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is still slightly translucent in the center. Aim for around 145°F (63°C) internal temperature.
Following these tips will ensure your salmon is flavorful and cooked just right every time!
Spicy Bang Bang Salmon Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Side:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation and 15 minutes of cooking time. You can have a delicious, spicy meal ready in just 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you’re baking the salmon. If you prefer to use the stovetop, just get your skillet ready. Next, pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towel—this helps them get nice and crispy. Season both sides of each fillet with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Sear the Salmon:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden.
3. Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they are almost done. If you’re baking, transfer the fillets to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
4. Make the Salad:
While the salmon is cooking, prepare the cucumber avocado salad. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, avocado, chopped cilantro, and optional jalapeño. Toss them gently to mix all the ingredients together.
5. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth. This sauce is the star of the show—so stir well!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, it’s time to serve! Place the cooked salmon fillets over a bed of white rice, drizzling generously with the Bang Bang sauce. Serve the refreshing cucumber avocado salad on the side. Feel free to drizzle some extra sauce over the salmon, if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This Spicy Bang Bang Salmon strikes a perfect balance between crispy, spicy flavors and creamy, tangy sauce, making it a delightful and vibrant dish for any occasion!
FAQ for Spicy Bang Bang Salmon
Can I Use Frozen Salmon?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to place it in the refrigerator overnight, or you can thaw it quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat it dry before seasoning and cooking for optimal crispiness.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can increase the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce or add more chopped jalapeños to the cucumber salad. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick!
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The Bang Bang sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure the ingredients are well mixed again.
What Should I Serve with Spicy Bang Bang Salmon?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, but you can also serve it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a fresh green salad for a lighter option. The creamy sauce and flavorful salmon work well with various side dishes!
