Bang Bang Salmon Bites
Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a quick and flavorful appetizer featuring tender salmon cubes coated in crispy panko and drizzled with a creamy, spicy bang bang sauce. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or a delicious snack, these bites combine bold, balanced flavors of spice, sweetness, and tang with fresh ingredients, making them both tasty and wholesome.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (about 16-20 bites) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying (alternative: Baking)
- Cuisine: American Fusion
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Salmon Bites
- 1 lb boneless, skinless fresh salmon fillets, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour / gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
Bang Bang Sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayo for dairy-free)
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1 tsp fresh lime juice
Garnishes
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Optional: citrus zest, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro or parsley
- Prepare the Salmon: Cut the fresh salmon into roughly 1-inch bite-sized cubes, ensuring pieces are uniform for even cooking. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until the sauce is smooth and well blended. Adjust spiciness by adding more or less sriracha as desired.
- Coat the Salmon Bites: Set up a breading station with one bowl containing the beaten eggs and another with panko breadcrumbs. Dip each salmon cube into the egg, then roll it evenly in the panko to fully coat all sides, ensuring a crispy exterior once cooked.
- Cook the Salmon Bites: Heat vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry the coated salmon bites in batches without overcrowding for about 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve with Sauce: While still warm, either drizzle the prepared bang bang sauce over the salmon bites or toss them gently to coat. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and optional extras like citrus zest or sesame seeds. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crispiness and flavor.
Notes
- Choose fresh, sushi-grade or wild salmon for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even browning and maintain oil temperature.
- Patting the salmon dry before coating helps the crust stick and stay crispy.
- Customize sauce heat level gradually by adjusting sriracha amounts.
- For a healthier alternative, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Store leftover salmon bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days; keep sauce separate until serving.
- Freeze uncooked coated bites on a tray and transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month; cook directly from frozen with increased frying time.
- Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven on a wire rack to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 bites
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: bang bang salmon, salmon bites, appetizer, quick snack, crispy salmon, spicy sauce, party finger food, gluten free, quick recipe