Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe

This Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on traditional fried fish. With the help of the air fryer, these salmon bites are crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The creamy, spicy, and tangy Bang Bang sauce takes these salmon bites to the next level, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer, a main course, or a fun snack, this recipe is sure to impress your family and guests.

The great thing about this recipe is its simplicity. It requires minimal ingredients, yet delivers maximum flavor. The air fryer provides a faster cooking method, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Paired with the irresistible Bang Bang sauce, these salmon bites become a standout dish that can be served on their own or as part of a larger meal. With its perfect combination of spices, savory salmon, and sweet-spicy sauce, you won’t be able to stop at just one bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This recipe comes together in just a matter of minutes, thanks to the air fryer. There’s no need for complicated prep work or long cooking times, making it ideal for busy evenings.

2. Healthier Option

By using the air fryer, you can enjoy crispy salmon bites without the extra calories and fat from deep-frying. It’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

3. Flavorful and Versatile

The Bang Bang sauce brings a perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and creaminess, elevating the salmon’s natural flavors. It can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences by adding more or less Sriracha.

4. Family-Friendly

With its mild flavor and crispy texture, this recipe is a hit with both adults and kids. It’s an excellent way to introduce more seafood into your family’s diet.

5. Perfect for Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a casual gathering, these salmon bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to serve as finger food, making them perfect for sharing.

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Ingredients

• Salmon, skin removed, cut into 1-inch bites
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Mayonnaise
• Thai sweet chili sauce
• Sriracha
• Honey
• Chives, for garnish

Variations

• Different Sauces: You can substitute the Bang Bang sauce for other sauces like spicy mayo, garlic butter, or teriyaki glaze for different flavor profiles.
• Air Fryer Adjustments: If you prefer a crispier texture, you can lightly coat the salmon with breadcrumbs or panko before air frying.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the salmon with firm tofu or cauliflower for a plant-based alternative.
• Heat Level: Adjust the amount of Sriracha in the sauce to make it spicier or milder, depending on your preferences.
• Herb Garnishes: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or cilantro in place of chives for a fresh and vibrant garnish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Cut the salmon into 1-inch bite-sized pieces and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the salmon bites will crisp up nicely in the air fryer.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In a bowl, toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Ensure the salmon is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the salmon cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture.

Step 4: Cook the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is cooked through and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

While the salmon cooks, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey in a bowl. Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Toss the Salmon in Sauce

Once the salmon is done cooking, transfer it to a bowl and pour the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Toss gently to coat the salmon bites evenly in the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the salmon with chopped chives for an extra burst of freshness. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• For extra crispy salmon bites, you can spray a light coat of cooking spray on the salmon before air frying.
• If you’re using a larger air fryer, you may need to cook the salmon in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
• Be sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket so that the salmon can crisp up properly.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for optimal doneness.

How to Serve

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites can be served as a standalone appetizer or as part of a larger meal. They pair beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like extra Bang Bang sauce or soy sauce for added flavor. For a complete meal, serve alongside some crispy sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While the texture may not be as crispy, the flavor will still be delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked salmon bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftover salmon bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the salmon completely before preparing and seasoning it.

2. Can I bake the salmon instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the salmon at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. However, the texture may be slightly different.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are added.

4. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of Sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce to suit your desired spice level.

5. Can I use a different fish?

Yes, other fish like cod, trout, or tilapia can be used, though they may require slight adjustments in cooking time.

6. Can I make this recipe without mayo?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.

7. How do I know when the salmon is cooked?

Salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered fully cooked.

8. Can I make the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

9. Can I serve this dish with a side dish?

Yes, it pairs well with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.

10. Can I use other types of chili sauce?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different chili sauces, such as hoisin or garlic chili sauce.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are the perfect combination of crispy, tender, and flavorful. With a quick and easy preparation method, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional fried seafood. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these salmon bites will definitely be a hit. The Bang Bang sauce adds an irresistible spicy-sweet touch, making them a memorable dish that everyone will enjoy.

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