Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These healthy Bang Bang salmon bites are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. Air-fried to perfection, they’re a quick and delicious seafood option that’s both gluten-free and packed with protein. Whether served as an appetizer, main dish, or in tacos, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Salmon Bites
- 1 ½ lbs salmon (skinless, cut into bite-sized cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tsp sriracha
- 2 tbsp honey
For Garnish
- Chopped chives
Directions
Prepare the Salmon
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Salmon: In a bowl, toss salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Cook the Salmon
- Air Fry: Arrange salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and honey until smooth.
Coat & Serve
- Toss the Salmon: Once cooked, toss the salmon bites in the Bang Bang sauce until fully coated.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped chives and serve warm as a main dish, appetizer, or in tacos.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mayo alternative.
- Low-Carb: Swap honey for a sugar-free sweetener.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked seasoned salmon for up to 2 months. Thaw before cooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, but thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking.
How do I prevent my salmon from drying out?
Don’t overcook—remove from the air fryer as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
Yes! It will make the sauce lighter and tangier.
What sides go well with Bang Bang salmon bites?
Try serving with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store the Bang Bang sauce in the fridge for up to a week.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! Use a low-carb mayo and swap honey for a keto-friendly sweetener.
Can I make these salmon bites crispy?
For extra crispiness, coat the salmon bites lightly in cornstarch before air frying.
What’s the best way to cut salmon into bites?
Use a sharp knife and cut evenly sized cubes for even cooking.
Can I grill the salmon instead of air frying?
Yes! Grill on medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Can I use a different fish?
Yes! This recipe works well with cod, tilapia, or shrimp.
Conclusion
Healthy Bang Bang salmon bites are a quick and flavorful seafood dish that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors. Whether served as a snack, main course, or in tacos, these crispy salmon bites with a creamy, spicy sauce are sure to be a hit. Try different variations, pair with your favorite sides, and enjoy this healthier take on a restaurant favorite!
Print
Healthy Bang Bang Salmon Bites
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Healthy Bang Bang Salmon Bites are crispy, flavorful, and tossed in a sweet and tangy Bang Bang sauce! Cooked in the air fryer, this gluten-free seafood dish is a quick and delicious option for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 1/2 lbs salmon, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp Sriracha
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp chopped chives
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease the basket.
- Season the Salmon: In a bowl, toss salmon cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Salmon: Arrange salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until salmon is crispy and cooked through.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, honey, and Sriracha until smooth.
- Toss & Serve: Gently toss the cooked salmon in the Bang Bang sauce or drizzle it on top. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately!
Notes
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes if you don’t have an air fryer.
- Serve over rice, lettuce wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Seafood
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Find it online: https://yumandjoy.com/air-fryer-bang-bang-salmon-bites/