Looking for a quick, flavorful seafood dish that will wow your taste buds? Have you ever wondered how to get that perfect crispy texture on salmon while coating it with a bold, sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce? This Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Sweet & Spicy) recipe combines crunchy salmon nuggets with a creamy, zesty sauce — making it a perfect appetizer or light meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients List
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp lime juice
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining, taking less than half an hour from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Bites
Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
Step 2: Coat the Salmon
Dip each salmon piece first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs evenly.
Step 3: Fry the Salmon
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the salmon bites in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the crispy salmon bites or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 4)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Swap panko breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed nuts for a low-carb version.
- Use Greek yogurt mixed with sriracha and lime juice instead of mayonnaise to lighten the sauce.
- Bake salmon bites at 400°F for 12-15 minutes instead of frying to reduce oil usage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or alongside a fresh cucumber salad to balance the heat. They also pair well with a crunchy slaw or avocado slices for creamy contrast.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the salmon before breading, which leads to soggy bites.
- Overcrowding the pan during frying, causing uneven cooking and loss of crispiness.
- Skipping the resting step to drain excess oil, which keeps the bites crispy longer.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispiness instead of microwaving. Keep the Bang Bang sauce separate to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites (Sweet & Spicy) recipe is a delightful balance of crunchy texture and flavorful sauce, perfect for quick dinners or entertaining. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s a dish sure to become a new favorite.
Tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and subscribe for more easy and delicious seafood recipes!
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, just make sure to thaw completely and pat dry to maintain crispiness.
Q: How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?
A: The sauce has a mild to moderate heat depending on how much sriracha you add. Adjust it to your taste.
Q: Can I bake the salmon bites instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier alternative.
