Name: Flavorful Bang Bang Salmon Bowls You’ll Crave Every Night
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Salmon (Fresh, responsibly sourced; can substitute with shrimp or chicken.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (For crisping; other oils can be used but avoid strong flavors.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor; sea salt is preferable.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground is preferable.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Base for sauce; Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Adjust amount based on taste.); 1 tbsp Sriracha (Adjust to taste; can swap with preferred hot sauce.); 1 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup is a great vegan substitute.); 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar (Can be replaced with apple cider vinegar.); 2 cups Cooked Rice (Base of the bowls; substitute with cauliflower rice for low-carb.); 1 cup Shredded Carrots; 1 cup Cucumber; 1/2 cup Green Onions; 1/4 cup Cilantro

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As I whisked together the creamy bang bang sauce, the scent of anticipation filled my kitchen. These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bowls were about to become my go-to weeknight meal! In just 30 minutes, I can whip up this delicious dish featuring golden, crispy salmon bites and a medley of fresh veggies, all drizzled with that irresistible sweet and spicy sauce. Not only are these bowls a quick meal, but they also offer endless customization options—simply swap in shrimp or chicken and try cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative. If you’re ready to elevate your dinner game while keeping it easy and healthy, you’ll want to stick around for this recipe. What delightful toppings will you choose to personalize your bowl?

Why are Bang Bang Salmon Bowls a must-try?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe is quick and straightforward, allowing you to create a gourmet meal in just 30 minutes.

Customizable to your taste: Swap salmon for shrimp or chicken, and use cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist, making these bowls adaptable for everyone!

Bursting with flavor: The sweet and spicy bang bang sauce combined with crispy salmon and fresh veggies creates a mouthwatering experience.

Meal prep friendly: Store components separately for easy assembly during busy weeknights; perfect for planning ahead!

Nutrient-packed goodness: Each bowl delivers a well-balanced meal rich in protein and healthy fats, ideal for any occasion.

You won’t regret trying these bowls; they’ll quickly become a family favorite! Want more seafood inspiration? Check out my Oven Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon for another delightful dish!

Bang Bang Salmon Bowl Ingredients

• Dive into the creation of your own delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bowls with these essential ingredients!

For the Salmon
Salmon – Use fresh, responsibly sourced salmon for the best flavor; can substitute with shrimp or chicken.
Olive Oil – Aids in crisping the salmon and adds richness; other oils can be used but avoid strong flavors.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; using sea salt can provide a cleaner taste.
Black Pepper – Adds seasoning depth; freshly ground pepper is preferable for maximum flavor.
For the Bang Bang Sauce
Mayonnaise – Base for the bang bang sauce, providing creaminess; use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Offers sweetness with a hint of heat; adjust this amount based on personal preference for the sauce.
Sriracha – Adds a kick to the sauce; adjust to taste or swap with your preferred hot sauce.
Honey – Sweetens the sauce; maple syrup can be a great vegan substitute.
Rice Vinegar – Contributes tanginess to the sauce; can be replaced with apple cider vinegar.
For the Bowls
Cooked Rice – Serves as the base for the bowls and provides carbohydrates; substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Shredded Carrots, Cucumber, Green Onions, Cilantro – Adds freshness and crunch to your bowls; feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or cabbage to mix it up.

With these ingredients on hand, you’ll be well on your way to crafting incredible Bang Bang Salmon Bowls that the whole family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Salmon Bowls

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 390°F (195°C). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture on your salmon. While it’s warming up, gather your salmon and other ingredients, so everything is ready to go when the cooking time arrives.

Step 2: Prepare the Salmon
Cube the salmon into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle salt and black pepper over the top. Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly with the seasonings. This step enhances the flavor and ensures a delicious crust once cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon
For the oven method, evenly spread the seasoned salmon cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for 12-15 minutes until they are cooked through and have a crispy exterior. If using an air fryer, place the salmon in the basket and air fry for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
While your salmon is cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and rice vinegar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to match your desired balance of sweetness and heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Once your salmon is ready, it’s time to build the Bang Bang Salmon Bowls. Start by dividing the cooked rice evenly among four bowls. Next, top each bowl with an equal portion of the crispy salmon cubes, followed by your choice of fresh vegetables like shredded carrots, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Generously drizzle your homemade bang bang sauce over the assembled bowls, allowing the vibrant flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with extra toppings of your choice, such as lime wedges or sesame seeds, if desired. Your delightful Bang Bang Salmon Bowls are now ready to serve, offering a feast for the eyes and the palate!

Bang Bang Salmon Bowls Variations

Invite your culinary creativity to shine as you customize these delightful bowls to fit your taste preferences!

Shrimp Swap: Replace salmon with shrimp for a quick seafood twist; simply adapt cook time to 4-6 minutes.
Chicken Choice: Opt for grilled chicken instead of salmon to cater to poultry lovers; juicy, seasoned chicken pairs beautifully with the bang bang sauce.
Cauliflower Rice: Swap traditional rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb sensation that still offers a satisfying texture.
Quinoa Boost: Use quinoa instead of rice for an extra protein punch while enjoying a nutty flavor in every bite.
Veggie Variations: Experiment with vibrant veggies like bell peppers or zucchini to change the crunch and enhance your bowl’s color.

Enjoy crafting your masterpiece by adding toppings of choice, such as avocado for creaminess or edamame for a protein boost. And if you’re on the lookout for more creative seafood dishes, don’t miss my mouthwatering recipe for Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon with Asparagus.

Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the bang bang sauce if you crave a little heat in your meal.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill into the bowls for a fragrant and refreshing touch that elevates the dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Salmon Bowls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the salmon cubes and veggies up to 3 days in advance—just store them in separate airtight containers to maintain their freshness and prevent sogginess. The bang bang sauce can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake or air fry the salmon for 12-15 minutes (or 8-10 minutes in the air fryer) until crispy, reheat the rice, and assemble your bowls. This way, you’ll have delicious, gourmet meals on the table with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Salmon Bowls

Preheat Properly: Always preheat your oven or air fryer beforehand. This step is critical for achieving perfectly crispy salmon without overcooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure your salmon cubes are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding can trap steam, making them soggy instead of crispy.
Customize Your Sauce: Adjust the spiciness of the bang bang sauce by varying the amount of sriracha. This way, you can cater to your family’s taste preferences without losing the essence of the dish.
Meal Prep Wisely: If you’re prepping ahead, store the components separately. Keep the sauce and salmon in airtight containers until you’re ready to assemble for the freshest taste in your Bang Bang Salmon Bowls.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to mix up the vegetables! Incorporating different fresh produce like bell peppers or cabbage can transform the flavor profile while adding extra nutrients.

Storage Tips for Bang Bang Salmon Bowls

Fridge: Store components like cooked salmon, rice, and vegetables in airtight containers for up to 2-3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to assemble when you’re craving a quick meal.
Freezer: If you want to store your salmon for longer, freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat salmon in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, checking for warmth throughout.
Bang Bang Sauce: Store the sauce in the fridge for up to a week. Give it a quick stir before using it to refresh its delicious flavors in your Bang Bang Salmon Bowls.

What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon Bowls

Imagine sinking your fork into a vibrant bowl filled with crispy salmon and colorful veggies, perfectly accompanied by delightful side dishes.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice adds a tropical touch, enhancing the savory elements of the salmon and sauce while bringing a creamy texture to each bite.
Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers a crispy contrast and a wholesome dose of protein, balancing the richness of the bang bang sauce beautifully.
Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled cucumbers or carrots adds a refreshing zing, brightening up the meal and enhancing the overall experience of flavors.
Roasted Broccoli: Crispy-tender broccoli tossed in sesame oil provides a robust, earthy flavor that complements the sweet and spicy notes of the dish seamlessly.
Miso Soup: Warm miso soup adds a comforting touch; the umami richness will deepen your enjoyment of the salmon, creating a restaurant-quality experience at home.
Chilled Green Tea: Sip on this refreshing drink to cleanse the palate; its mild bitterness pairs nicely with the bold flavors of the bang bang bowls.
Mango Salsa: For a sweet and fruity twist, a bright mango salsa will provide a burst of freshness, elevating the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Finish off the meal with a creamy mousse that’s rich yet guilt-free, giving a delightful end to a flavorful dining experience.

Bang Bang Salmon Bowls Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting salmon?
Absolutely! When choosing salmon, look for vibrant color and a fresh, mild scent. The flesh should feel firm and moist, without any dark spots or discoloration. Responsibly sourced salmon is typically the best choice for quality and flavor.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bowls?
Very good question! Store the components of your Bang Bang Salmon Bowls—like cooked salmon, rice, and vegetables—in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This way, everything stays fresh, and you can quickly assemble your bowl before serving.

Can I freeze the salmon for longer storage?
Of course! To freeze cooked salmon, first, let it cool completely. Next, place the salmon on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Afterward, transfer it to a freezer bag, squeezing out any excess air. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if my salmon turns out soggy?
No worries, that can happen! To ensure crispy salmon, make sure your oven or air fryer is adequately preheated and avoid overcrowding the cooking surface. If it still turns out soggy, try using a higher temperature for a shorter cook time on your next attempt, and don’t hesitate to check for doneness early.

Is this recipe safe for those with seafood allergies?
The Bang Bang Salmon Bowls contain salmon and other seafood ingredients, so they are not safe for those with seafood allergies. However, you can easily substitute the salmon with grilled chicken or tofu for a delicious alternative that caters to different dietary needs!

How can I keep the sauce fresh after making it?
Great question! You can store the bang bang sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If it thickens in the fridge, just give it a quick stir before using it again. This allows you to whip up your Bang Bang Salmon Bowls in no time!