Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the Bang Bang sauce before tossing. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the mayo and enhances the natural flavor of the salmon.

If you enjoy extra heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra sriracha can be whisked directly into the sauce mixture before coating the cooked salmon.

To keep the salmon as crispy as possible, serve it immediately after tossing in the sauce.

If you are serving a crowd, keep the cooked salmon in a warm oven at a low temperature while you finish the final batches, then toss everything in the sauce all at once right before bringing the platter to the table. This ensures everyone gets a hot, crunchy bite simultaneously.

Variations

• Soy-Ginger Glaze: Replace the Bang Bang sauce with a mixture of soy sauce, grated ginger, and honey. Toss the crispy salmon in this glaze for a savory, umami-packed version that pairs perfectly with steamed broccoli.
• Lemon-Herb Finish: Instead of the spicy mayo, toss the air-fried salmon with melted butter, fresh lemon zest, and finely chopped parsley. This version highlights the delicate flavor of the salmon and is excellent for a lighter, zesty meal.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until crispy again.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the crispy coating will soften significantly once the salmon is refrigerated and comes into contact with the sauce.

For the best quality, store the salmon bites and the sauce separately if you plan on having leftovers, and combine them only when you are ready to serve again.

You can prep the salmon by cubing it and keeping it in the refrigerator for up to two hours before cooking. However, wait to toss the salmon with the cornstarch and spices until just before you are ready to air-fry. If you season it too early, the salt in the spices will draw moisture out of the fish, which will result in a soggy crust instead of a crispy one.

Serving ideas

These salmon bites are best served over a bowl of steaming jasmine rice, which acts as a perfect base for the spicy, creamy sauce. You can also serve them inside warm flour or corn tortillas for a quick taco night, or alongside a crisp cucumber and radish salad to balance the richness of the Bang Bang sauce with something fresh and cooling.

For a lighter presentation, serve the bites on a platter with toothpicks for an easy appetizer. Add a side of pickled ginger or extra sriracha for guests who prefer more heat.

The combination of the crispy, savory salmon and the creamy, spicy sauce makes this a crowd-pleasing dish that works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for a more festive gathering.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites

Prep 5 minCook 7 minTotal 12 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 lb skinless center-cut salmon, cut into 1-inch squares
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/3 cup sriracha sweet chili mayo
• sesame seeds, for serving
• cucumber slices, for serving

Instructions

1. Cut the skinless center-cut salmon into uniform 1-inch squares using a sharp knife. Transfer the cubes to a large mixing bowl and add the avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cornstarch. Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated, ensuring the starch creates a light, dry layer on the surface of the fish.
2. Arrange the seasoned salmon cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 7 minutes. The salmon is done when the edges are blistered and crispy while the center reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
3. Transfer the hot, crispy salmon bites into a clean mixing bowl. Add the sriracha sweet chili mayo and toss gently until every cube is thoroughly coated in the glossy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cucumber slices on the side.

Contains: fish, eggs, sesame

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

32 g

Carbohydrates

12 g

Fat

28 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

450 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.