Name: Delicious Bang Bang Salmon
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons sriracha (more or less to taste); 1 tablespoon honey; Juice of 1 lime; 2 green onions, finely chopped

If you’re looking for a quick and delectable dish to impress your family or guests, then look no further than Bang Bang Salmon. This tantalizing recipe combines beautifully seared salmon fillets drizzled with a creamy, sweet-spicy sauce that elevates the fish to new culinary heights. What makes this dish truly appealing is its effortless preparation; in just 15 minutes, you can serve up a restaurant-quality meal that bursts with flavor and excitement!

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to treat someone special without spending hours in the kitchen. The salmon fillets are seasoned with a perfect blend of spices that enhances their natural richness while the Bang Bang sauce adds a delightful kick. The contrast between the crispy surface of the salmon and the creamy sauce is absolutely irresistible. Plus, with the use of healthy ingredients like salmon, olive oil, and fresh lime juice, you can relish the food without any guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Bang Bang Salmon

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a time-saver for busy days.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet chili sauce and sriracha provides the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Healthy Ingredients: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad to customize your dining experience.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking Bang Bang Salmon, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by clearing your work area and ensuring you have everything you’ll need within reach. For this recipe, you’ll require a large skillet for searing the salmon, measuring spoons for accurate ingredient quantities, and a mixing bowl for combining the sauce. A spatula or fish flipper is also vital for flipping the salmon fillets without damaging them.

Prepping your ingredients beforehand can make the cooking process smoother. Pat the salmon dry and season it with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper before starting to cook. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while you work on the sauce. Once your ingredients are ready, you will be set to create a culinary masterpiece worthy of any occasion.

Ingredients

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons sriracha (more or less to taste)
1 tablespoon honey
Juice of 1 lime
2 green onions, finely chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by ensuring the salmon fillets are patted dry. This step is crucial as it allows the seasonings to stick better and promotes a nice sear during cooking. Once dried, sprinkle a blend of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of the fillets. This flavor base will enhance the salmon’s natural richness and prepare it for a flavorful bite.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if they have skin). Allow them to sear undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, allowing the skin to crisp up and the fish to cook through without falling apart. After this initial cooking time, carefully flip the fillets using a spatula, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they reach your desired doneness. The salmon is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium, where the inside remains moist and tender.

Step 3: Create the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon is cooking, it’s time to whip up the delectable Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version), sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and the fresh juice of one lime. Mix until all ingredients are well blended, forming a smooth, creamy sauce. If you prefer a bit more heat, feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha based on your spice tolerance. This sauce will bring out the best in the salmon!

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the salmon has finished cooking, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving platter. Generously drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the top of each salmon fillet. To add a touch of freshness and color, sprinkle finely chopped green onions on top. Serve the dish hot and watch everyone devour it in a matter of minutes!

Variations

Protein: You can substitute salmon with other proteins like shrimp, chicken breasts, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition and color on your plate.
Spices: Experiment with different spices or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!

Cooking Notes

Always use fresh salmon for the best flavor and texture.
Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your salmon fillets.
Double the Bang Bang sauce recipe if you love extra sauce for serving!
This dish is also freezer-friendly; just ensure it’s stored properly in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Bang Bang Salmon with jasmine rice or quinoa for a hearty meal.
Serve alongside a crisp green salad for added freshness and crunch.
Consider serving with a side of grilled or roasted veggies to complement the flavors.

Tips

When searing, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to achieve the perfect sear.
Give the salmon time to rest before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
Keep all ingredients prepped and ready to go to streamline the cooking process.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
Protein: 40g
Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise in Bang Bang sauce?

You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option or sour cream for a creamy texture.

Is Bang Bang Salmon spicy?

The level of spice can be adjusted based on your taste. Use less sriracha for a milder flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon is a flavor-packed dish that is sure to become a household favorite. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, there’s no need to sacrifice taste for time. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, this dish promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate to explore different variations and make this recipe your own! We invite you to leave a comment sharing your experience or any twists you tried with the sauce. Happy cooking!