Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

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This Bang Bang Salmon is a flavor-packed, vibrant dish that brings together the bold heat of chili garlic sauce with the creamy sweetness of a bang bang mayo drizzle. Imagine tender salmon fillets roasted to perfection, glazed in a spicy-sweet sauce that caramelizes under the broiler and topped with fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy finish. It’s rich, zesty, and totally craveable.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish comes together quickly yet feels like something special. Whether served with rice, roasted vegetables, or tucked into lettuce wraps, Bang Bang Salmon is one of those recipes that turns a simple protein into a serious showstopper.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the most of your Bang Bang Salmon, the right kitchen tools will make the process smooth and ensure a perfect result:

• Baking Dish or Sheet Pan: Opt for a ceramic or glass baking dish to hold the fillets and sauce well during baking. A rimmed sheet pan lined with foil or parchment also works if you want crispier edges.
• Mixing Bowl: For whisking up the bang bang sauce (which combines creamy, spicy, and tangy elements).
• Whisk or Fork: To evenly blend mayo, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and garlic.
• Silicone Brush or Spoon: Helps in evenly spreading the sauce over the salmon before and after baking.
• Oven with Broiler Option: Baking gently cooks the salmon, while broiling at the end gives it that slightly charred, caramelized finish.
• Spatula or Fish Turner: A flexible spatula makes it easier to serve the delicate fillets without breaking them.

With these essentials on hand, you’ll breeze through prep and end up with a stunning, flavor-packed meal.

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Ingredients for the Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Each component of this recipe plays a role in delivering that addictive balance of heat, creaminess, and brightness:

• Salmon Fillets: The main protein, rich and flaky, perfectly suited for bold sauces.
• Mayonnaise: Brings creaminess and helps balance the heat. It’s the base of the bang bang sauce.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: Adds that signature sweet-spicy flavor. It’s sticky, tangy, and essential.
• Sriracha: Kicks up the heat and deepens the chili flavor.
• Garlic (minced): Adds pungent depth and aroma that enhances the sauce.
• Lime Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness.
• Olive Oil: Used for baking to keep the salmon moist and create a golden crust.
• Green Onions: Chopped and sprinkled on top for freshness and crunch.
• Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: Adds vibrant green color and a burst of herbal finish.

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How To Make the Bang Bang Salmon Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, garlic, and lime juice. Taste and adjust for spice or sweetness as desired.

Step 2: Prep the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a greased baking dish or foil-lined pan. Pat dry with paper towels for better sauce adhesion.

Step 3: Coat and Bake

Brush or spoon half the bang bang sauce over the salmon. Reserve the rest for later. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, depending on fillet thickness.

Step 4: Broil and Glaze

Turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Brush on the remaining sauce and let it slightly caramelize for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and top with chopped green onions and fresh herbs. Serve hot with your favorite side.

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Serving and Storing Your Bang Bang Salmon

This dish is best served hot and fresh, straight from the oven when the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden. Pair it with jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or roasted broccoli for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, flake the salmon over a crisp salad or wrap in lettuce cups with cucumber and shredded carrots.

To store leftovers, let the salmon cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to preserve the texture. Avoid freezing if possible, as the sauce may separate and lose its creamy consistency.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Bang Bang Salmon?

It has a medium kick thanks to the sriracha and chili sauce, but you can easily adjust the heat level. For milder flavor, reduce or omit the sriracha.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before baking. This helps the sauce stick and the salmon cook evenly.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to mayonnaise?

Absolutely. You can use vegan mayo or a blend of cashew cream with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for similar tang.

What other proteins can I use with this sauce?

Bang bang sauce works wonderfully with shrimp, chicken, or tofu. It’s super versatile!

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can mix the sauce and store it in the fridge a day ahead. The salmon is best cooked fresh, but pre-saucing and refrigerating it a few hours in advance also works.

What sides go best with Bang Bang Salmon?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, coconut rice, or even mashed potatoes work well. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a cucumber salad.

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Want More Seafood Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Bang Bang Salmon, you might enjoy these flavorful seafood recipes from Life With Olivia:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for an indulgent date night dish.
• Seafood Stuffed Shells when you’re craving cheesy comfort.
• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for a light and flavorful weeknight dinner.
• Baked Crab Legs in Butter Sauce for a no-fuss, impressive seafood feast.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo when you’re in the mood for something hearty and soulful.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Add a twist to the sauce? Try it with shrimp or tofu?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome – let’s cook smarter and tastier together!

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