Prep Time: ~5 minutes | Cook Time: ~10 minutes | Total Time: ~15 minutes | Yield: ~4 servings
Introduction
Bang Bang Salmon is a quick and flavorful salmon dish with a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce. Tender salmon fillets sear quickly to juicy perfection and are finished with a bold Bang Bang-style drizzle that’s sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy. Perfect for fast weeknight meals with big restaurant-style flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Ready in about 15 minutes — great for busy nights
- Sweet, spicy, creamy sauce that pairs beautifully with salmon
- Pan-seared salmon with crispy exterior
- Simple ingredients and easy steps
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 1–2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Bang Bang Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 Tbsp sriracha (adjust for heat)
- 1 Tbsp honey (or a touch more for sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp lime juice (or lemon juice)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Lime wedges
- Sesame seeds
The Flavor Profile
This salmon dish balances rich, buttery fish with a creamy, slightly spicy sauce that’s sweet and tangy. The sweet chili and honey contrast the heat from sriracha, while lime juice adds a bright citrus kick. The result is bold, fun, and incredibly satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Salmon
Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust heat or sweetness to your preference.
3. Cook the Salmon
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets skin-side down (if using skin). Cook 3–4 minutes without moving so the outside crisps. Flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until the salmon is cooked to your liking (opaque and flaky).
4. Drizzle the Sauce
Remove the salmon from heat. Drizzle the prepared Bang Bang sauce over each fillet (or spoon it on the side for dipping).
5. Garnish & Serve
Top with optional garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a squeeze of lime.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook in batches if needed so each fillet sears evenly.
- Adjust the sauce heat: Add more or less sriracha to suit your spice tolerance.
- Serve immediately: Bang Bang sauce is best fresh and vibrant on hot salmon.
How to Serve
Serve this salmon with steamed rice or cauliflower rice, sautéed vegetables, or a crisp salad. You can also drizzle the sauce on veggies or use it as a dip for sides.
Storage & Freshness
Store leftover salmon and sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently so the sauce doesn’t separate.
Conclusion
Bang Bang Salmon is a quick, delicious way to enjoy salmon with bold, creamy, sweet, and spicy sauce — ready in about 15 minutes and perfect for an easy but impressive dinner!
