Pin it
This bite-sized salmon appetizer transforms ordinary fish into an irresistible treat with its perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The vibrant bang bang sauce brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum impact.
I first made these salmon bites for a last-minute dinner party when I was short on time but wanted to impress. They disappeared within minutes and now they're my go-to whenever I need a foolproof crowd pleaser.
Ingredients
- Salmon: A thick fresh piece provides the best texture and ensures the bites remain moist during broiling
- Your favorite spicy seasoning: Choose something with a bit of kick that complements salmon such as cajun, blackened seasoning, or a simple blend of smoked paprika and cayenne
- Olive oil: A good quality olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the salmon and prevents sticking
- Mayo: Creates the creamy base for the bang bang sauce giving it richness and body
- Sriracha: Adds the signature heat that makes this dish memorable go for the classic red bottle for authentic flavor
- Sweet chili sauce: Provides the perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat look for brands with visible chili flecks
- Rice vinegar: A small amount adds brightness that cuts through the richness of the sauce
- Chives: Fresh chives bring a mild onion flavor and beautiful color contrast
- Red pepper flakes: Optional garnish that allows each person to customize their heat level
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the salmon:
- Remove the skin from your salmon fillet using a sharp knife sliding it between the flesh and skin. Cut the salmon into evenly sized bites about 1-inch cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Season generously:
- Place the salmon chunks in a mixing bowl then drizzle with enough olive oil to lightly coat each piece. Sprinkle your chosen spicy seasoning liberally over the salmon ensuring each bite is well covered. Gently toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Broil to perfection:
- Arrange the seasoned salmon pieces on a foil-lined baking sheet making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Position the rack about 6 inches from the broiler and broil for 8 minutes or until the salmon is just cooked through with a slight char on top.
- Make the bang bang sauce:
- While the salmon cooks prepare your sauce by combining equal portions of mayonnaise sriracha and sweet chili sauce in a small bowl. Add just a splash of rice vinegar to brighten the flavors. Stir until completely smooth and the color is uniformly pink.
- Serve with flair:
- Remove the salmon from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Drizzle generously with the bang bang sauce covering the top of each piece. Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped chives over everything and add red pepper flakes if desired for those who enjoy extra heat.
Pin it
The sweet chili sauce is truly the magic ingredient here. I once tried to substitute plain honey and hot sauce when I was out of it and the result just wasnt the same. That unique combination of sweet sticky heat creates a dimension of flavor that makes these bites absolutely addictive.
Storage and Reheating
These salmon bites store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. I recommend storing the sauce separately and adding it just before serving for the best texture. To reheat gently microwave in 15-second intervals until just warm or enjoy cold straight from the fridge which is sometimes even better as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Perfect Pairings
Turn these bites into a complete meal by serving them over steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. I love adding sliced avocado cucumber and a sprinkle of furikake seasoning for a deconstructed sushi bowl feel. For a party setting place toothpicks nearby so guests can easily grab a bite without messy fingers.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a lighter version substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise in the sauce. Not a fan of salmon? This preparation works beautifully with cubed chicken thighs or firm tofu just adjust cooking times accordingly. You can also play with the sauce proportions increasing or decreasing the sriracha depending on your heat preference.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen salmon for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cutting into chunks and seasoning. Excess moisture can prevent proper browning during broiling.
- → What spicy seasonings work best for the salmon?
Cajun seasoning, blackened seasoning, or a simple mix of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne work beautifully. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
- → Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together even better.
- → What can I serve with these salmon bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with steamed rice, cucumber salad, or even on top of mixed greens. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside vegetable crudités or wonton chips.
- → How can I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
To make it milder, reduce the amount of sriracha and increase the sweet chili sauce. For extra heat, add more sriracha or include the optional red pepper flakes as a topping.
- → Can I use an air fryer instead of broiling?
Yes! Air fry the seasoned salmon chunks at 400°F (200°C) for about 6-7 minutes, checking for doneness. The air fryer creates a nice exterior while keeping the salmon moist.