Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

This crispy salmon bites recipe transforms ordinary salmon into an irresistible appetizer with a sweet and spicy kick from the bang bang sauce. The bite-sized pieces cook quickly while developing a golden crust that perfectly complements the tender interior.

I created this recipe when searching for new ways to serve salmon that my spice-loving husband would enjoy. Now it's our go-to for date nights at home when we want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets: Fresh wild-caught salmon provides the best flavor and texture. Look for firm flesh with vibrant color and no fishy smell.
• Olive oil: Creates the foundation for a crispy exterior. Use a good quality oil with a high smoke point.
• Garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without burning like fresh garlic might at high heat.
• Onion powder: Provides savory notes that enhance the salmon's natural flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that elevates the entire dish. Spanish varieties offer the richest flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the bang bang sauce. Full-fat works best for richness.
• Thai sweet chili sauce: Delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat. Look for brands with visible chili flakes.
• Sriracha sauce: Adds the signature kick to bang bang sauce. Adjust according to your heat preference.
• Honey: Balances the heat with natural sweetness and helps the sauce cling to the salmon.
• Lime juice: Brightens the entire dish with fresh acidity that cuts through the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the salmon:

Remove any skin from the salmon fillets and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures you'll get that coveted crispy exterior. Cut the salmon into consistent 1-inch cubes so they cook evenly. Season thoroughly by tossing the pieces in olive oil first so the spices adhere better, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Make sure every piece is evenly coated.

Create the bang bang sauce:

Whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and fresh lime juice until completely smooth. The sauce should have a vibrant orange-pink color and silky consistency. Take time to taste and adjust. If it's too spicy, add more honey. Need more heat? Add additional sriracha. The sauce should have complexity with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes in balance.

Sear the salmon:

Heat your non-stick skillet until it's properly hot before adding the salmon. A drop of water should sizzle and evaporate immediately. Add just enough oil to prevent sticking. Place salmon pieces with space between them, as overcrowding causes steaming instead of searing. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until you see a golden-brown crust forming. The interior should remain slightly translucent in the center for perfect doneness. Remove to paper towels briefly to absorb excess oil.

Sauce application:

Choose your preferred method based on your serving style. For appetizers where guests will use toothpicks, the drizzle method works beautifully. For a more intense flavor experience, gently toss the salmon in a bowl with the sauce, being careful not to break the delicate pieces. The warm salmon will slightly thin the sauce, helping it coat every piece perfectly.

Garnish and serve:

Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for color contrast and brightness. Green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the salmon. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the salmon is still warm and crispy.

Save

The Thai sweet chili sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered it years ago at an Asian market and now keep multiple bottles in my pantry. During my sister's surprise birthday party, I served these salmon bites and watched as the platter emptied within minutes. Even guests who claimed they didn't like salmon were asking for the recipe.

Make-Ahead Options

While the salmon bites are best served fresh and hot, you can prepare components ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. The bang bang sauce can be made up to three days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also cut and season the salmon up to 8 hours before cooking, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. This advance prep makes the recipe perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute cooking.

Perfect Pairings

These crispy salmon bites pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without overwhelming. Try serving them with a cucumber and avocado salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. For a more substantial meal, serve over jasmine rice or cauliflower rice. The sauce also makes an excellent dipping option for steamed vegetables like broccoli or sugar snap peas. Consider serving with a light citrusy beverage like a lemon-ginger sparkling water or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

Customization Ideas

This versatile recipe welcomes creative variations. For a gluten-free option, ensure your Thai sweet chili sauce doesn't contain hidden wheat ingredients. To make a dairy-free version, simply use your favorite plant-based mayonnaise in the sauce. You can also create a deconstructed version by serving the sauce on the side for dipping. For extra texture, try coating the salmon in a light dusting of cornstarch before searing for an even crispier exterior. You can also transform this into lettuce cups by serving the bites in butter lettuce leaves with additional garnishes.

Recipe FAQs

→ What is bang bang sauce made of?

Bang bang sauce is a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. The combination creates a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, tangy and spicy flavors that complement the salmon beautifully. You can adjust the sriracha amount to increase or decrease the heat level to your preference.

→ Can I use other fish instead of salmon?

Yes! While salmon works exceptionally well due to its rich flavor and firm texture, you can substitute other firm fish varieties like mahi-mahi, cod, or halibut. Just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly as some fish cook faster than salmon. The bang bang sauce pairs wonderfully with most seafood options.

→ How do I ensure my salmon bites get crispy?

For perfectly crispy salmon bites: 1) Pat the salmon completely dry before seasoning, 2) Use a hot skillet with just enough oil to prevent sticking, 3) Don't overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed, 4) Allow adequate space between pieces, and 5) Resist the urge to flip too early—let each side develop a golden crust before turning.

→ What can I serve with bang bang salmon bites?

These versatile salmon bites pair beautifully with many sides. For appetizers, serve them with toothpicks alongside a veggie platter. As a main course, pair with jasmine rice, coconut rice, or cauliflower rice. Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy, a fresh Asian slaw, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

→ Can I make these salmon bites ahead of time?

For best results, cook the salmon bites just before serving to maintain their crispy texture. However, you can prep components ahead: cut and season the salmon (store refrigerated up to 4 hours), and make the bang bang sauce (stores well refrigerated for up to 3 days). When ready to serve, simply cook the salmon and toss with the sauce.

→ How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is customizable based on your preference. As written, the recipe has a moderate heat from the sriracha and sweet chili sauce. For a milder version, reduce or omit the sriracha and cayenne pepper. For extra heat, increase the sriracha in the sauce or add more cayenne to the salmon seasoning.