Prep Time: ~5 minutes | Cook Time: ~10 minutes | Total Time: ~15 minutes | Yield: ~4 servings
Introduction
Bang Bang Salmon is a quick and flavorful salmon dish featuring a creamy, sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce. Tender salmon fillets are pan-seared to juicy perfection and topped with a bold sauce that’s sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy — perfect for easy dinners that taste like restaurant quality.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Ready in about 15 minutes
- Creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce
- Crispy-seared salmon exterior with juicy interior
- Simple, fresh ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 1–2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 Tbsp sriracha (adjust for heat)
- 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Lime wedges
- Toasted sesame seeds
Flavor Profile
This dish balances rich, tender salmon with a creamy, sweet-spicy Bang Bang sauce. The sweet chili sauce and honey add sweetness, sriracha brings kick, and lime juice adds brightness. The seared salmon brings a satisfying exterior crunch with a juicy center.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey (or maple syrup), and lime juice until smooth. Adjust heat or sweetness to taste.
3. Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin). Cook 3–4 minutes without moving to allow a crispy sear. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily.
4. Drizzle the Sauce
Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the Bang Bang sauce over each salmon fillet or serve on the side for dipping.
5. Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed.
- Adjust spice level: Add more or less sriracha to suit your taste.
- Serve immediately: The sauce is best fresh and vibrant on the warm salmon.
How to Serve
Serve this Bang Bang Salmon with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp salad. The creamy sauce also works beautifully over noodles or grain bowls.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftover salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently so the sauce stays creamy.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon is a fast, flavorful dish with bold creamy sauce and perfectly seared salmon — an easy yet impressive dinner in about 15 minutes!
