These Baked Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to make! With a spicy sweet sauce, they are great for snacks or entertaining guests.
Honestly, when I make these, I can’t stop munching on them! They’re perfect with a side of veggies. Just be careful—they might disappear faster than you can serve them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here! You can also use sockeye or king salmon for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, try using canned salmon, though it may change the texture.
Smoked Paprika: This gives the salmon a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika will work, but you might miss that smoky depth. A dash of cumin can also add an interesting flavor twist.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust this to your spice preference! If you want less heat, consider using sweet paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
Mayonnaise: This is key for the creamy Bang Bang sauce. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
Sweet Chili Sauce: If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, try making a simple mix of honey and chili paste to achieve a similar sweet and spicy flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Salmon Bites Cook Perfectly?
Cooking salmon bites to perfection requires a few key steps. Make sure to spread the salmon cubes evenly on the baking sheet. This allows for proper airflow and helps them crisp up nicely.
- Preheat your oven fully before placing the salmon in, as this helps with even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the salmon during the last few minutes of baking. It should be lightly golden and flake easily with a fork.
- Let the salmon cool a bit after baking; this helps enhance the flavors and makes them easier to handle.
How to Make Baked Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 pound salmon, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (more if you like it spicy)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: fresh cucumber slices (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients, and then 15-20 minutes for baking the salmon bites. Add a little time for whipping up the sauce, and you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping for Baking:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or set up a wire rack on your baking sheet. This will help the salmon bites cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
2. Making the Spice Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This spice blend is going to add a ton of flavor to your salmon!
3. Seasoning the Salmon:
Add the bite-sized salmon cubes to the bowl with the spice mixture. Gently toss the salmon with the spices until every piece is coated well. This is where the magic starts!
4. Baking the Salmon Bites:
Arrange the seasoned salmon bites in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and has a beautiful crispy exterior.
5. Preparing the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the salmon is baking, let’s whip up the Bang Bang sauce! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Use a whisk to mix everything until smooth. Feel free to taste and adjust the sriracha if you love that extra kick of spice!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When the salmon bites are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve the warm salmon bites with your homemade Bang Bang sauce. Don’t forget to sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for garnish. If you’d like, add fresh cucumber slices on the side for a refreshing crunch. Enjoy your delicious Baked Bang Bang Salmon Bites!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw salmon is to place it in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat it dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Bang Bang Sauce?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. It will give you a creamy texture with a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream or even avocado for a different twist, just make sure to blend it well with the other ingredients until smooth!
How Do I Store Leftover Salmon Bites?
Store any leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or in a skillet over low heat to keep them crispy. Avoid using the microwave if you can, as it may make the salmon soggy.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like it spicy, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper and sriracha to suit your taste. Additionally, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the Bang Bang sauce for an extra kick!
