Bang Bang Salmon {Air Fryer}

Delight your taste buds with Bang Bang Salmon, a mouthwatering recipe that combines crispy, air-fried salmon with a creamy, sweet, and spicy Bang Bang sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, offering a healthy yet indulgent meal with minimal effort. The air fryer ensures perfectly cooked salmon with a crispy exterior and juicy interior, while the signature sauce delivers a punch of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Cooking salmon in the air fryer is a breeze, with minimal prep and cleanup required.
• Healthier Alternative: The air fryer eliminates the need for excessive oil, making this recipe a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Bold Flavors: The creamy Bang Bang sauce combines sweetness, spiciness, and tanginess for an irresistible taste.
• Versatile: This recipe works well with other proteins or as part of a larger meal, such as over a salad or paired with rice and vegetables.
• Kid-Friendly: The balanced flavors in the sauce make it appealing to all age groups, with a customizable spice level for picky eaters.
• Great for Meal Prep: The salmon and sauce can be prepared ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets
• Mayonnaise
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil spray
• Green onions
• Optional garnishes (such as sesame seeds or fresh herbs)

Directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F to preheat for about 3-5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season lightly with garlic powder and a pinch of salt.
3. Cook the Salmon: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook at 400°F for 7-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. The salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
4. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha until smooth. Adjust the Sriracha amount based on your desired spice level.
5. Assemble the Dish: Once the salmon is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the top, ensuring each fillet is coated.
6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and optional garnishes like sesame seeds or fresh herbs. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use the Bang Bang sauce with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different take on this dish.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the salmon over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the sweet chili sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayonnaise alternative to make the sauce completely dairy-free.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to suit your heat preference, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container for best results.
• Reheating: Reheat the salmon in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore its crispy texture. The sauce can be served cold or slightly warmed in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What is Bang Bang sauce made of?

Bang Bang sauce typically combines mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha for a creamy, sweet, and spicy flavor.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in the air fryer. Add 2-3 minutes to the cook time and ensure the fillets are cooked through.

How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray or line it with parchment paper designed for air fryers.

Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, bake the salmon at 400°F for 12-15 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then top with the sauce.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, use a low-carb sweet chili sauce or make your own with keto-approved ingredients.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 5 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent choices to complement the flavors.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and has an internal temperature of 145°F.

Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes, other firm fish like cod, halibut, or trout work well with this recipe.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level is moderate but adjustable. Reduce the Sriracha or substitute with a milder sauce if desired.

Conclusion

Bang Bang Salmon made in the air fryer is a game-changing recipe that’s flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of perfectly cooked salmon and a tantalizing Bang Bang sauce makes it a dish you’ll want to make on repeat. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and elevate your salmon game today!

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