Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls are a tasty way to enjoy salmon! These bowls are filled with crispy salmon bites, fresh veggies, and a creamy, spicy sauce that brings everything together.
It’s hard not to love a meal that looks this good and tastes even better! I enjoy stacking the toppings high and drizzling all that yummy sauce on top—it’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is best for this dish, but you can use wild-caught if available. If you’re looking for alternatives, boneless chicken thighs or tofu cubes work well too, just adjust the cooking time!
Rice: Jasmine rice gives a lovely fragrance, but you can easily substitute it with white or brown rice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice also make great gluten-free options that can add a different texture.
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayonnaise is the base, and you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Some like to add a splash of soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor. If you want a vegan option, try using cashew cream.
Vegetables: Broccoli, cucumbers, and avocados are fantastic, but feel free to swap in your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can also bring crunch and color!
How Do I Cook Salmon Perfectly?
Cooking salmon to perfection ensures it’s tender and moist. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a clean, dry skillet and heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add salmon cubes in a single layer, allowing space between each piece.
- Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the pieces.
- Use a fish spatula to check doneness; it should flake easily when done. Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
This technique ensures you get both a crispy exterior and a deliciously flaky interior. Enjoy your cooking and these beautiful bowls!
Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup white jasmine rice (or sushi rice)
- 1 1/4 cups water (for cooking rice)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (black and white mixed)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil (for cooking salmon)
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total—15 minutes to prepare and cook everything, plus some time to assemble the bowls. It’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice and 1 1/4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Let it simmer on low for about 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Once done, remove it from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, and optional lime juice until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Taste it and adjust the spice level or sweetness if needed. Set the sauce aside.
3. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Heat the sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon cubes once it’s hot. Sear them until golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. Be gentle when turning the cubes so they stay intact—aim for a slightly crisp outside with a tender inside.
4. Steam the Broccoli:
While the salmon is cooking, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot or steamer until they are tender but still bright green, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This way, they maintain a nice crunch!
5. Assemble the Bowls:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Divide the cooked rice among your serving bowls. Arrange the steamed broccoli, cucumber slices, and avocado slices on top of the rice. Finally, add the delicious cooked salmon bites on the top.
6. Garnish and Finish:
Drizzle the Bang Bang sauce generously over the salmon and veggies. For the finishing touch, sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds generously on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your beautiful Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls immediately, and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in each bite!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen salmon completely in the refrigerator overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Once thawed, pat it dry before cooking to ensure a nice sear.
Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, try to warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave to avoid overcooking the salmon.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can customize the bowl with your favorite vegetables! Consider adding bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for extra crunch and color. Just be sure to adjust cooking methods as needed—some may require steaming while others can be added fresh.
