Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls are a fun and tasty dish! With crispy salmon bites drizzled in a creamy and spicy sauce, these bowls are packed with flavor and excitement in every bite.
Trust me, once you try these bowls, you’ll want to make them for dinner every week! I love adding fresh veggies for crunch. It’s a tasty and colorful meal that feels fancy but is super simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish, providing a tender and flavorful base. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using shrimp or tofu for a seafood-free or vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds that essential umami flavor. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead. They work just as well!
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners balance out the spice. If you’re vegan, go for maple syrup. For a lower-calorie option, use agave syrup or omit it altogether.
Sriracha Sauce: Adjust the heat to your liking! If you want less spice, try a milder sauce like sweet chili sauce. For a kick without the heat, go with a mild chili paste.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise gives creaminess, but feel free to use Greek yogurt for a lighter twist or any vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Salmon Bites?
Getting those crispy edges on your salmon bites is key to a delicious bowl! Here’s how:
- Make sure the salmon is well-coated with the cornstarch mix for that crispy outer layer.
- Heat your skillet properly before adding the salmon; a hot pan creates a beautiful sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook the salmon in batches if necessary to keep the heat high.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This method ensures tender salmon with a crispy texture, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish!
Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salmon Bites:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked brown rice or jasmine rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Optional: chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping the ingredients and marinating the salmon, while the cooking process will take an additional 10-15 minutes. There’s a bit of assembly at the end, but it’s all simple and comes together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinating the Salmon:
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sriracha. This is your marinade! Add the cubed salmon and gently toss to ensure all the pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to soak up those delicious flavors.
2. Coating the Salmon Bites:
While the salmon is marinating, prep the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once the salmon is marinated, lightly dust each cube with the cornstarch mixture to create a crispy exterior.
3. Cooking the Salmon:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. If you feel it needs it, add a tiny splash of oil to the pan. Carefully place the salmon bites in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Set the cooked salmon aside and remember to check for doneness!
4. Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the remaining teaspoon of sriracha. Give it a taste to see if you want it spicier and adjust accordingly. This creamy sauce is what makes the bowl pop!
5. Assembling Your Bowls:
Now for the fun part! Grab your bowls and start with a base of cooked rice. Next, pile on those crispy salmon bites. Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the salmon.
6. Adding Fresh Veggies:
Surround the salmon with your fresh components: steamed broccoli, sliced cucumbers, and shredded purple cabbage. You want a colorful, vibrant bowl!
7. Garnishing:
Sprinkle the chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top for that extra flavor and crunch. If you like, add chopped peanuts or cashews for even more texture.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle a bit more Bang Bang sauce over the veggies if you wish, then dig in! Enjoy the spicy, sweet, and savory flavors all in one bite. This bowl is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the salmon first. The best way to do this is by placing it in the fridge overnight or sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quick thawing. Once thawed, pat it dry before marinating.
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can replace the salmon with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly: shrimp will cook faster, while chicken will need more time to ensure it’s cooked through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salmon may lose its crispiness when reheated, but you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to bring back some texture.
Can I Prep This Bowl in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the salmon and prepare the veggies ahead of time. Just assemble the bowls right before eating for the freshest taste. If making in bulk, store the sauce separately to drizzle just before serving.
