Bang Bang Salmon

Bang Bang Salmon: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and flavor-packed dinner option, look no further than this Bang Bang Salmon recipe. Inspired by the popular Bang Bang sauce, this dish combines the richness of salmon with a creamy, spicy, and sweet sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe comes together in just under 20 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon filets (about 1½ pounds), skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (66 g) Thai sweet chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha (or more to taste)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Chives, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the salmon from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Prepare the Salmon:
   • Drizzle olive oil over the salmon filets, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.
   • In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the salmon filets, pressing lightly to adhere.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
   • In another small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until well combined.
   • Divide the sauce in half, reserving one half for brushing onto the salmon before baking and the other half for drizzling over the cooked salmon. This will give the dish layers of flavor and texture.
4. Bake the Salmon:
   • Using the first half of the prepared Bang Bang sauce (about ½ cup), evenly brush it over the tops of the salmon filets.
   • Place the salmon filets on the lined baking sheet, skin-side down, ensuring there is space between each filet for even cooking.
   • Bake the salmon for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. Begin checking the salmon at the 6-minute mark. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) when fully cooked. If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the salmon for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Once the salmon is cooked, transfer the filets to a serving plate.
   • Drizzle the remaining Bang Bang sauce over the top of each filet, adding an extra burst of flavor.
   • Garnish with chopped chives for a fresh, vibrant touch.
6. Serving Suggestions:
   • This Bang Bang Salmon pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a simple salad, making it a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 18-20 minutes
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Conclusion:

Bang Bang Salmon is an easy yet impressive dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. The combination of spicy Sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and creamy mayonnaise creates a sauce that perfectly complements the rich, flaky salmon. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious, nutritious meal in under 20 minutes.