Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Description

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are bite-sized pieces of salmon coated in a light, crunchy breading and tossed in a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these bites deliver a balance of crispy texture and bold flavor. With the rich omega-3 goodness of salmon and the irresistible tang of the sauce, this dish is a healthier, protein-packed twist on the classic Bang Bang shrimp.

Ingredients for Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

For the Salmon Bites:

• 1 lb (450g) fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for pan-frying) or cooking spray (for air fryer/oven)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 3 tbsp sweet chili sauce

• 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)

• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

• 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Salmon:
   Pat the salmon dry and cut into evenly sized cubes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Set Up Breading Station:

   • Place flour in one shallow bowl.

   • Beat eggs in a second bowl.

   • Combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.

3. Bread the Salmon:
   Coat each salmon cube first in flour, then dip into egg, and finally coat with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

4. Cook the Salmon:

   • Pan-Fry Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon bites for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

   • Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray bites with oil and cook for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through.

   • Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place bites on a parchment-lined sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake 12–15 minutes until crisp.

5. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar/lime juice until smooth.

6. Toss and Serve:
   Gently toss crispy salmon bites with Bang Bang sauce or drizzle the sauce on top before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

• For extra crunch, double coat the salmon by dipping twice in egg and panko.

• Use skinless salmon to avoid chewy texture.

• Make the sauce ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor.

• If using frozen salmon, thaw completely and pat dry before breading.

Tips

• For lighter calories, bake or air fry instead of pan-frying.

• Swap salmon with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for variety.

• Adjust spice by increasing or reducing sriracha.

• Serve with jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Servings

• Makes about 4 servings as an appetizer or 2 servings as a main dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings, pan-fried)

• Calories: ~310

• Protein: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 18g

• Fat: 15g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 460mg
  (values may vary based on cooking method and sauce adjustments)

Benefits

• Rich in Omega-3s: Salmon supports heart, brain, and joint health.

• High Protein: Great for muscle building and satiety.

• Customizable Heat: Perfect for different spice tolerances.

• Crowd-Pleaser: A fun, flavorful dish ideal for parties or family dinners.

Q & A

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bread the salmon bites ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before cooking. Cook fresh for best crispiness.

Q: What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?
A: Greek yogurt or light sour cream works well for a healthier version.

Q: How do I keep the salmon from getting soggy?
A: Don’t overcrowd the pan/air fryer basket. Cook in batches for maximum crispiness.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Freeze cooked bites in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for crispiness.