Bang Bang Salmon | Easy Air Fryer or Baked Recipe with Sauce

Bang Bang Salmon is a flavorful twist on classic salmon bites, featuring crispy chunks of fish paired with a creamy, spicy homemade sauce. This dish is quick to make and incredibly satisfying, whether you cook it in the oven or an air fryer. It’s a go-to recipe when you want bold flavor with minimal effort.

With a simple list of pantry-friendly ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in less than 30 minutes. The tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy Bang Bang sauce is the star of the show and complements the salmon perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines ease, speed, and full flavor in every bite. The salmon is cooked to crispy perfection while staying tender inside, and the sauce adds a bold punch without being overpowering. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a make-ahead lunch. Best of all, you can air fry or bake it, depending on what you have available.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salmon:

• 1 lb of center-cut salmon fillet, skin removed and chopped into 1-inch pieces
• ½ tsp coarse sea salt to bring out the natural flavor
• ½ tsp garlic powder for an umami base
• ¼ tsp smoked paprika to add depth and slight warmth
• ⅛ tsp black pepper for a mild kick
• 1 to 2 tsp honey (optional) to enhance browning and balance the spice
• 1 tbsp olive oil for moisture and crisping
• Olive oil spray to coat your cooking surface

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup Kewpie mayonnaise for its rich and slightly sweet texture
• 3 tbsp rice vinegar to cut through the creaminess
• ½ to 1 tsp sriracha or chili sauce depending on your spice preference
• 1 garlic clove, finely grated to add punch
• ½ tbsp light soy sauce or 1 tbsp coconut aminos as a gluten-free option
• ½ tsp sugar to balance the acidity and spice
• 1½ tbsp ketchup for tang and color
• 2 pinches of coarse sea salt to round out the flavor

To Garnish:

• Chopped scallions or chives for a pop of freshness
• Sesame seeds or furikake for crunch and visual contrast

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon

Making this dish is straightforward. The salmon is quickly seasoned and cooked until golden, then topped or served with a creamy, spicy sauce that’s whisked together in minutes. You can use either an air fryer or oven based on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cube the Salmon
Remove the skin and slice your salmon into evenly sized 1-inch chunks. This helps ensure that everything cooks evenly and quickly.

Step 2: Add Flavor
In a mixing bowl, combine the salmon pieces with salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, olive oil, and honey if using. Toss gently to coat every piece thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
Spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the salmon cubes in a single layer with space between each piece. Air fry at 350°F for about 8 minutes. After cooking, let them rest in the basket for 10 seconds to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven
If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil. Place the salmon evenly on the pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden and fully cooked.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, sriracha, garlic, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), sugar, ketchup, and salt. Adjust spice levels to your taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Plate and Serve
Place the cooked salmon on a plate. Spoon the sauce over the top or serve it alongside. Sprinkle with scallions and sesame seeds to finish.

Helpful Tips

Use parchment liners in the air fryer to minimize sticking, but always preheat the machine first.
Go for center-cut salmon for the best texture and even cooking.
Store salmon and sauce separately to maintain freshness.
Reheat leftover salmon in the air fryer or under the broiler to keep it crispy.

Details

Flavor: A balance of savory, creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet
Texture: Crispy edges with soft, flaky insides
Ideal For: Fast dinners, appetizers, party snacks
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8–12 minutes
Total Time: Under 25 minutes

Notes (Variations or Substitutions)

Swap the salmon for shrimp, tofu, or even chicken if you prefer.
Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a gluten-free and lower-sodium option.
Add a splash of lime juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
For a plant-based version, use vegan mayonnaise.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	292 kcal
Carbohydrates	6 g
Protein	23 g
Fat	18 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Unsaturated Fat	14 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	849 mg
Cholesterol	67 mg
Potassium	581 mg
Fiber	0.1 g
Vitamin A	130 IU
Vitamin C	1 mg
Calcium	20 mg
Iron	1 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Bang Bang sauce made of for salmon?
This sauce typically includes mayonnaise, vinegar, sriracha, garlic, soy sauce or coconut aminos, ketchup, sugar, and salt. It’s creamy with a touch of heat and sweetness.

Can Bang Bang salmon be baked or air fried instead of pan fried?
Yes. Both methods are healthier alternatives to frying. Air frying gives a crispy finish, and baking is convenient for batch cooking.

How do you keep salmon moist when making Bang Bang salmon?
Use high-quality center-cut salmon, coat with a little oil and honey, and avoid overcooking. Quick, even cooking keeps the interior moist.

What sides pair best with Bang Bang salmon?
Try pairing it with white rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crunchy cabbage slaw. It also works well with steamed edamame or noodle salads.

Storage Instructions

Let the salmon cool, then store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate to preserve texture. Reheat the salmon in the air fryer or under a broiler until warmed through. The sauce can be refrigerated for up to 5 days.

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Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is a quick, vibrant dish that brings bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether baked or air fried, the salmon turns out crispy and delicious. The creamy sauce adds just the right contrast of spice and sweetness. This recipe is great for weeknights, special occasions, or when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it once and it might become a regular favorite

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