Tasty Salmon Bites with Bang Bang Sauce

These crispy salmon bites with creamy bang bang sauce transform traditional salmon into an exciting appetizer. The tender fish, coated in spices and cooked to golden perfection, pairs wonderfully with a smooth sweet-spicy sauce. A dish that delivers restaurant-quality results with straightforward preparation.

When I first served these at a dinner party, they disappeared within minutes. They've since become my go-to appetizer for gatherings.

Essential Ingredients

• Fresh salmon (600g): Choose bright, firm fillets
• Spice blend:
  • Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
  • Garlic powder (1 tsp)
  • Onion powder (1 tsp)
  • Cayenne (1/2 tsp)
• Bang bang sauce:
  • Mayonnaise (120ml)
  • Sweet chili sauce (60ml)
  • Sriracha (2 tsp)
  • Honey (2 tsp)
  • Fresh lime

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Salmon

- Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes prior
- Pat thoroughly dry with paper towels
- Remove skin carefully using sharp knife
- Remove any pin bones
- Cut into 3-4cm cubes
- Double check for remaining bones
- Season lightly with salt and rest 10 minutes

2. Seasoning

- Combine spices in mixing bowl
- Add 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Gently coat salmon cubes
- Toss carefully to distribute spices
- Cover and marinate 15-30 minutes
- Avoid marinating longer to prevent curing

3. Bang Bang Sauce

- Start with mayonnaise base
- Gradually add sweet chili sauce
- Add sriracha to taste
- Balance with honey
- Squeeze in half lime juice
- Stir until well combined
- Chill until serving

4. Cooking Methods:

A. Pan Method

- Heat cast iron pan until very hot
- Add thin layer neutral oil
- Place cubes without crowding
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side
- Turn gently with tongs
- Center should remain medium

B. Oven Method

- Preheat to 400°F/200°C
- Line baking sheet
- Space salmon cubes apart
- Bake 8-10 minutes
- Broil 1 minute to brown

C. Air Fryer Method

- Preheat to 375°F/190°C
- Line basket with perforated parchment
- Arrange in single layer
- Cook 6-7 minutes, shake halfway
- Check doneness and adjust time

5. Assembly

- Drain on paper towels
- Drizzle with bang bang sauce
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds
- Add sliced green onions
- Garnish with lime wedges
- Serve while hot

Continuing with Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe:

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Creative Variations

1. Asian Style
   • Add fresh ginger to marinade
   • Include teriyaki sauce
   • Top with wakame seaweed
   • Serve over seasoned rice
2. Mediterranean Version
   • Season with oregano and basil
   • Add capers to sauce
   • Include preserved lemon
   • Serve on arugula bed
3. Fusion Twist
   • Add curry to spice blend
   • Incorporate coconut milk in sauce
   • Top with toasted cashews
   • Pair with mango salad

Serving Suggestions

• Presentation Options:
  • Serve in glasses over guacamole
  • Make Asian-style tacos
  • Arrange on skewers with grilled pineapple
  • Create grain bowls with quinoa

Storage and Make-Ahead

1. Salmon Storage:
   • Marinate up to 30 minutes
   • Never refreeze thawed fish
   • Use cooked portions within 24 hours
2. Sauce Storage:
   • Keeps 3 days refrigerated
   • Bring to room temperature before using
   • Can be made in larger batches

These bang bang salmon bites have become my trusted recipe for entertaining. They demonstrate how quality ingredients and proper technique can create an impressive dish that's both visually striking and delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can store Bang Bang sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

→ What's the best way to cook the salmon?

Pan-frying gets the crispiest crust, but an air fryer is easier and cuts back on oil.

→ How do I know when the salmon’s done?

The salmon should flake easily and remain slightly pink in the center.

→ Can I make this dish less spicy?

Of course. Skip the cayenne and reduce or leave out the sriracha in the sauce.

→ What side dishes work well with this?

Serve it alongside white rice, an avocado salad, or stir-fried veggies for a complete meal.