Description
These Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon Bites are a quick, easy, and flavorful appetizer or main course. Crispy salmon bites are coated in a sweet and spicy Bang Bang sauce for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salmon:
- 1 1/2 pounds salmon, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 fillets)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1 cup (232g) mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup (132g) Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 teaspoons Sriracha (or more, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C).
- Prepare Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk to combine.
- Prepare Salmon: Cut the salmon fillets into 1-inch cubes.
- Make Bang Bang Sauce: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and honey until well combined.
- Divide Sauce: Crucially, divide the Bang Bang sauce in half. Reserve one half of the sauce for serving, and use the other half for coating the raw salmon. This prevents cross-contamination.
- Coat Salmon: Add the salmon cubes to the large bowl with the seasoning mixture (oil and spices). Toss gently to coat the salmon evenly. Then, add half of the Bang Bang sauce to the bowl with the seasoned salmon. Toss gently to coat.
- Air Fry: Working in batches, place the coated salmon bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Air fry for 4-5 minutes.
- Flip and Cook: Carefully flip the salmon bites over using tongs. Cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C).
- Serve: Transfer the cooked salmon bites to a serving plate or bowl. Drizzle with the reserved (unused) Bang Bang sauce. Garnish with chopped chives and serve immediately.
Notes
- Salmon: You can use any type of salmon for this recipe, but skinless fillets are recommended for easier preparation.
- Bang Bang Sauce: Adjust the amount of Sriracha to control the spiciness of the sauce.
- Air Fryer: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the salmon is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these Bang Bang Salmon Bites as an appetizer, a snack, or a main course. They’re great on their own, or served with rice, noodles, or a salad. You can also serve them in lettuce wraps or tacos.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave.