Short Description
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home in just 15 minutes. Flaky, tender salmon fillets are seasoned to perfection, pan-seared, and then generously drizzled with a creamy, spicy, and slightly sweet Bang Bang sauce. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor!
Ingredients:
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each), skin-on or skinless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear.
Step 2: Season the Salmon: In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Generously season both sides of the salmon fillets with this spice mixture.
Step 3: Heat Your Pan: Add the olive oil to a large skillet (preferably non-stick) over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is shimmering hot before adding the salmon.
Step 4: Cook the Salmon: Carefully place the salmon fillets in the hot pan. If using skin-on fillets, place them skin-side down first. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown (if using skin-on).
Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the salmon fillets and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 6: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce: While the salmon is cooking, prepare the Bang Bang sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sriracha to your preferred level of spiciness.
Step 7: Finish and Serve: Once the salmon is cooked, remove it from the pan and place it on a serving platter or individual plates. Generously drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon fillets. Sprinkle with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory salmon and sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce is irresistible.
- Versatile: Can be served with a variety of sides, from rice and vegetables to salads.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level of the Bang Bang sauce to your liking.
- Healthy: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over steamed rice or quinoa.
- Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
- Add a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Make Bang Bang Salmon bowls with rice, vegetables, and avocado.
Tips:
- Don’t overcook the salmon: Overcooked salmon is dry and tough. Cook it just until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Use a non-stick skillet: This will prevent the salmon from sticking to the pan and make it easier to flip.
- Adjust the spice level: Add more or less sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce to adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the Bang Bang sauce to reduce the fat content.
- Garnish: Garnish with sesame seeds, red pepper flakes, or a lime wedge for added flavor and visual appeal.
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 500mg (values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used)
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort. The combination of perfectly cooked salmon and the irresistible Bang Bang sauce makes for a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!
DRINK Rating:
This dish pairs well with a variety of beverages. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the richness of the salmon and the spice of the sauce. A light-bodied beer like a pale ale or a lager would also be a good choice. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen salmon. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Q2: Can I bake the salmon instead of pan-searing it?
A: Yes, you can bake the salmon. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.
Q3: Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I use a different type of fish?
A: While salmon is the best choice for this recipe, you can also use other types of fish such as tuna, cod, or halibut. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q5: What can I do if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?
A: If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, you can make your own by combining chili garlic sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup. You can also use a combination of sriracha and pineapple juice for a similar flavor profile.
