Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a fun and bold way to enjoy salmon. These golden cubes are crispy on the outside and soft, flaky on the inside. The creamy bang bang sauce adds the perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavor.
This dish is quick to make and works well for both dinner and parties. You can serve them with rice, on a salad, or in lettuce cups for a lighter option. With just 25 minutes of cooking, these bites are simple yet full of flavor.
Ingredients You Need
- For the Salmon Bites
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skinless and cut into cubes
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ teaspoon rice vinegar
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- In a bowl, mix buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add salmon cubes and marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge.
- In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar to make the bang bang sauce. Set aside.
- In a shallow dish, combine cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Remove salmon from marinade and coat each piece.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry salmon cubes until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Place cooked salmon on a paper towel to remove extra oil. Drizzle or dip in bang bang sauce before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 | Calories: 310 per serving
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are full of flavor, texture, and color. They are easy to make, healthy, and a great choice for weeknight dinners or appetizers when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
A Quick Look at the Origins
The name “Bang Bang” comes from a popular creamy chili sauce used in Asian-American cooking. The idea became famous with “Bang Bang Shrimp” and now has many versions using chicken, tofu, and seafood. Salmon adds a healthy twist with its natural richness and flaky texture.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Balanced flavors: creamy, spicy, and sweet all in one bite
- Ready in less than 30 minutes
- Pan-fried, not deep-fried, for a lighter option
- Easy to adjust spice level for kids or adults
- Works as both a main dish or a party appetizer
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is not only tasty but also healthy. It is:
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids (good for heart and brain health)
- A great source of protein for energy and strength
- Full of vitamins and minerals like B12, D, and selenium
- Helpful in weight management because it keeps you full
Flavor and Texture You Can Expect
Each bite gives you:
- A crispy outside from the panko coating
- Soft and juicy salmon inside
- Creamy, spicy-sweet sauce that ties it all together
Easy Customizations
- Make it spicier with more Sriracha or chili flakes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter sauce
- Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes instead of pan-frying
- Swap buttermilk with dairy-free milk and lemon juice for a dairy-free option
Perfect for Meal Prep
These salmon bites keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to keep them crispy. The sauce can be made in advance and stored for up to a week.
Serving Ideas
- As an appetizer with toothpicks and dipping sauce
- Over rice or quinoa as a main meal
- On top of a salad for extra protein
- Inside tortillas for salmon tacos with cabbage and avocado
Final Thoughts
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crunchy, creamy, spicy, and sweet all in one bite. They’re quick to make, fun to eat, and easy to serve in many ways. Whether it’s a family dinner, a party snack, or a light meal, these salmon bites are sure to impress.
