Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls are a fun, tasty way to enjoy fresh salmon with a little spicy kick. This dish features crispy salmon bites coated in a creamy, tangy bang bang sauce, served over a bed of rice or greens. The combination of crunchy salmon and the zesty sauce makes each bite super satisfying.
I love making these bowls when I want something quick but still impressive. The bang bang sauce is my favorite part—it’s creamy with just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without being too spicy. Sometimes I add a little extra crunch with sliced cucumbers or radishes, which keeps things fresh and light.
These bowls are perfect for a casual dinner or lunch, and they always get compliments from friends and family. I usually serve them with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad, making a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to whenever I want something easy and full of flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this recipe because it cooks quickly and stays tender. Wild-caught gives a richer flavor, but farmed salmon works just fine. If salmon isn’t available, try firm fish like cod or tilapia.
Mayonnaise: Japanese mayo adds creaminess and sweetness. If you don’t have it, regular mayo works well, or try vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Sriracha and Sweet Chili Sauce: These give the bang bang sauce its signature heat and sweetness. If you want less spice, reduce sriracha or substitute with a mild chili sauce or even ketchup for sweetness.
Rice: Jasmine or sushi rice are ideal for soaking up flavors. For a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or quinoa.
How Do You Get Crispy, Fully Cooked Salmon Bites Without Overcooking?
The key is to keep the salmon bites uniform in size so they cook evenly. Pat them dry to get that nice sear.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high and add oil to prevent sticking.
- Place salmon bites gently—don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Cook 2-3 minutes per side without moving them too much so a crisp crust forms.
- Salmon should be firm on the outside but still moist inside. Avoid overcooking by watching them closely.
This method helps keep the salmon juicy with a perfect crust, making the bites delicious and satisfying in your bowl.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Non-stick skillet – I prefer it because it helps the salmon cook evenly and easily releases from the pan without sticking.
- Mixing bowls – for tossing the salmon with seasonings and preparing the sauce without fuss.
- Small bowl – perfect for mixing the bang bang sauce so it’s smooth and well combined.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to keep the seasonings and sauces just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping salmon, green onions, and vegetables neatly.
- Serving bowls – to assemble and enjoy your vibrant bowls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- _Tuna or shrimp_: swap salmon for cooked shrimp or canned tuna for a different seafood twist.
- _Creamier sauce_: mix in a bit of chopped cilantro or lime juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- _Vegetables_: add sliced avocado, cucumber, or shredded carrots for extra crunch and freshness.
- _Spice level_: increase or decrease sriracha in the sauce depending on how spicy you like it.
Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Japanese mayo)
- 2 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tbsp sweet chili sauce
For the Bowls:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice or sushi rice
- ½ cup shredded purple cabbage
- ½ cup chopped kale or mixed greens
- ¼ cup sliced green onions, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (white and black)
- Optional garnishes: pickled ginger, sesame seeds, lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 10 minutes to cook, and you can serve it right away. So in around 20 minutes, you’ll have a tasty and colorful bowl ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salmon:
Start by patting the salmon cubes dry with paper towels — this helps them get nice and crispy. Toss them gently in a bowl with olive or sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika if you like, honey, salt, and pepper until every piece is coated.
2. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a non-stick skillet on medium-high. Add the salmon pieces and cook about 2-3 minutes on each side. Turn them carefully so they brown evenly and cook through but stay juicy. Once done, set them aside.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce. Taste and add more sriracha if you want extra heat.
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice between your serving bowls. Top with shredded purple cabbage, chopped kale or greens, and the cooked salmon bites.
5. Drizzle and Garnish:
Generously drizzle your bang bang sauce over the salmon bites. Sprinkle sliced green onions and a mix of white and black sesame seeds on top for crunch and color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Optionally add pickled ginger and lime wedges on the side for added zing. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, fresh Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure a crispy texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
Simply reduce the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce or omit it completely. You can increase the sweet chili sauce or mayonnaise to keep the sauce creamy and flavorful without the heat.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the salmon and make the sauce a few hours in advance, then store them separately in the fridge. Assemble the bowls just before serving for the best texture and freshness.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Rice?
Feel free to swap out jasmine or sushi rice for cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even a bed of mixed greens if you want a lighter or low-carb option.