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These Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls come together with a perfect crunch, creamy sauce, and vibrant vegetables for a colorful and crave-worthy meal. Whether you choose to bake or air-fry the salmon, the bites remain juicy on the inside with a golden, crispy exterior. Topped with a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce and nestled in a bowl, this dish is fantastic for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep that stays fresh and flavorful.
I first made this recipe when I wanted something bold but easy after a long day. Now it’s become a family favorite that my kids ask for regularly because of the fun textures and the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- Fresh salmon: cut into bite-sized cubes for tender, flaky bites ensure it’s skinless for even cooking
- Garlic powder: to add a savory depth without overpowering
- Smoked paprika: for a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the salmon
- Salt and black pepper: to season and bring out natural flavors use fresh cracked pepper for the best taste
- Panko breadcrumbs: to create that signature crispy coating look for plain or lightly salted depending on your salt preference
- Olive oil or a light spray: for crisping choose extra virgin for richer flavor in the end result
- Mayonnaise: to add creaminess and balance the heat
- Sweet chili sauce: provides sweetness and mild spice pick a quality brand with real chili flakes
- Sriracha: to add the bold spicy punch adjust amount depending on your heat tolerance
- Honey: adds a touch of natural sweetness to mellow the spice optional based on your taste
- Fresh lime juice: brightens the sauce with citrus notes
- Cooked jasmine rice or cauliflower rice: as the hearty base jasmine rice adds a fragrant aroma
- Shredded purple cabbage: for crunch and vibrant color
- Sliced avocado: brings creaminess and richness
- Shredded carrots: add sweetness and texture
- Green onions: for a fresh oniony bite
- Cilantro and sesame seeds: for garnish and a pop of fresh herbal and nutty flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
- Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit so they reach temperature before cooking. This ensures a perfect crisp outside without drying out the salmon inside.
- Season the Salmon:
- In a bowl, gently toss the salmon cubes with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated so every bite is flavorful.
- Coat the Salmon in Breadcrumbs:
- Press each seasoned salmon piece into the panko breadcrumbs carefully until fully coated. Spray lightly with olive oil to help the crumbs crisp up during cooking.
- Bake or Air-Fry the Salmon:
- If baking, arrange the salmon bites spaced on a parchment-lined tray and bake for 12 to 14 minutes until they turn golden and crispy. For the air fryer, cook in batches at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to get even crisping on all sides.
- Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, and honey in a small bowl until the sauce is smooth and creamy with a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
- Assemble the Bowls:
- Begin each bowl with a base of cooked jasmine or cauliflower rice. Layer on shredded purple cabbage, sliced avocado, shredded carrots, and top with the crispy salmon bites. Drizzle generously with the Bang Bang sauce and finish by garnishing with sliced green onions, fresh cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
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My favorite part of this dish is the Bang Bang sauce because it brings all the textures and flavors together with its creamy, sweet, and spicy qualities. Making this meal reminds me of lively family dinners where everyone eagerly digs in sharing smiles over the fresh colorful bowls.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover salmon bites and Bang Bang sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salmon bites will keep for up to three days and the sauce stays fresh for about four. Gently reheat the salmon in the oven or air fryer to restore its crispiness rather than microwaving. Assemble bowls fresh each time for the best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips can work for a different crunch profile. You can swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the sauce for a lighter and tangier option. To modify the heat, adjust sriracha or omit the chili sauce if you prefer milder flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bowls with a side of steamed edamame or wilted spinach for additional greens. A light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar pairs well to refresh the palate. Top with pickled ginger or a drizzle of soy sauce for a hint of extra Asian-inspired flavor.
Pro Tips
Make sure to dry your salmon cubes well before seasoning and coating to help the panko stick better and crisp more evenly. Do not skip spraying the salmon bites with a little olive oil or they might come out dry and crumbly instead of golden and juicy. I learned the hard way that flipping salmon in the air fryer halfway through is key to getting a fully crisp crust all around without overcooking the inside.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the salmon bites crispy?
Coat the salmon pieces well with panko breadcrumbs and lightly spray or brush with oil before baking or air-frying. Cooking at high heat ensures a golden, crunchy crust.
- → Can I use another type of fish?
Yes, firm fish like cod or tilapia can be used, but adjust cooking times to prevent drying out.
- → What alternatives work for jasmine rice?
Cauliflower rice or brown rice can be used to complement the salmon and veggies, offering different textures and flavors.
- → Is the sauce spicy?
The sauce balances sweet chili with sriracha heat, which can be adjusted to your spice preference by adding more or less sriracha.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep salmon bites and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat bites in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, baking or air-frying the salmon bites in advance and assembling bowls just before serving works well for meal prep.