Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
Highlighted under: Healthy Living Recipes
This Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a perfect blend of flavors, combining spicy, sweet, and tangy elements that will tantalize your taste buds.
This recipe was inspired by the popular Bang Bang shrimp dish, but we’ve given it a healthy twist with salmon and a refreshing cucumber salad.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich flavor of the spicy sauce complements the salmon perfectly
- Crisp cucumber salad adds a refreshing crunch
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners
A Flavorful Experience
Bang Bang Salmon is a delightful dish that masterfully balances spicy, sweet, and tangy notes, creating an explosion of flavor in each bite. The rich sauce, made from a combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili, and sriracha, elevates the salmon to new heights, making it a standout meal for any occasion. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers a vibrant presentation that is sure to impress your guests.
This dish is perfect for those who appreciate bold flavors without the need for complicated cooking techniques. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights or as a centerpiece for a casual dinner with friends.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
When preparing Bang Bang Salmon, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference. Fresh salmon fillets not only enhance the flavor but also provide essential nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial for heart health. Opt for wild-caught salmon when possible, as it tends to have a richer flavor profile compared to farmed varieties.
Additionally, the cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich salmon. Using fresh cucumbers and crisp red onions ensures that your salad is not only flavorful but also packed with crunch. The light dressing of rice vinegar and sesame oil complements the salad beautifully, making it a perfect side dish that balances the meal.
Customizing Your Dish
One of the joys of cooking is the ability to customize dishes to suit your personal preferences. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider adjusting the amount of sriracha in the Bang Bang sauce. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the sriracha or add more mayonnaise to tone down the spice.
You can also experiment with the cucumber salad by adding other fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers or radishes, for added color and flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can enhance the presentation while adding an extra layer of taste. Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!
Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients well before serving.
Instructions
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Cook the Salmon
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Brush the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
Make the Cucumber Salad
In a separate bowl, combine cucumber, red onion, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and salt. Toss to coat.
Serve
Serve the Bang Bang salmon on a plate with a side of cucumber salad. Drizzle any remaining Bang Bang sauce over the top.
Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal!
Tips for Perfect Salmon
To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, it's essential to monitor the cooking time closely. Depending on the thickness of your fillets, cooking times may vary. A good rule of thumb is to cook salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side for a 1-inch thick fillet. The salmon should be opaque and flake easily with a fork when done.
If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the Bang Bang sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the fish, resulting in an even more delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a wholesome meal, serve it alongside steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of grilled vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
If you're looking to elevate your dining experience, consider serving the salmon on a bed of mixed greens or arugula. The peppery greens contrast beautifully with the sauce and add a fresh component to the dish.
Storage and Meal Prep
Leftover Bang Bang Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, taking care not to overcook it, which can dry it out.
For meal prep enthusiasts, this dish can be prepared in advance. Cook the salmon and make the cucumber salad ahead of time, then store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply combine them for a quick and delicious meal any day of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for the sweet chili sauce?
You can mix equal parts of honey and hot sauce as a substitute.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sauces.
Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
This Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a perfect blend of flavors, combining spicy, sweet, and tangy elements that will tantalize your taste buds.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Healthy Living Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Bang Bang Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Heat a pan over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Brush the Bang Bang sauce over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
In a separate bowl, combine cucumber, red onion, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and salt. Toss to coat.
Serve the Bang Bang salmon on a plate with a side of cucumber salad. Drizzle any remaining Bang Bang sauce over the top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 30g