Healthy Bang Bang Salmon {Air Fryer}

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This Healthy Bang Bang Salmon is a light, flavorful twist on the classic bang bang recipe. Made with fresh salmon bites cooked to perfection in the air fryer and drizzled with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce, this dish is perfect for quick dinners or a guilt-free indulgence. The air fryer ensures the salmon is crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside—all without excessive oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier alternative: Air-fried for crispiness without deep-frying.
  • Packed with flavor: Sweet chili, sriracha, and lime come together for a bold sauce.
  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!
  • Versatile: Serve with rice, veggies, or even on a salad.

Ingredients for Healthy Bang Bang Salmon

For the Salmon:

  • 1 pound salmon fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Bang Bang Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or light mayonnaise for a richer sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice, freshly squeezed

Optional Garnishes:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness to your liking. Set aside for serving.

2. Season the Salmon

  1. Pat the salmon pieces dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the salmon with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper until evenly coated.

3. Cook in the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  2. Place the seasoned salmon pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
  3. Air fry the salmon for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the salmon is crispy on the outside and tender inside.

4. Serve and Garnish

  1. Transfer the salmon to a serving plate and drizzle with the prepared bang bang sauce.
  2. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Tips for the Best Bang Bang Salmon

  1. Use fresh salmon: Fresh, skinless salmon fillets are best for this recipe.
  2. Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if needed to ensure even air frying.
  3. Adjust spice levels: Add more or less sriracha to customize the heat.
  4. Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or light mayonnaise for the sauce.

Variations for Healthy Bang Bang Salmon

  • Low-Carb Option: Serve the salmon over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Ensure your Thai sweet chili sauce and sriracha are gluten-free.
  • Different Protein: Swap the salmon for shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
  • Extra Crispy: Coat the salmon bites lightly in cornstarch before air frying.

How to Store and Reheat

Storage:

  • Store leftover salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

  • Air Fryer: Reheat the salmon at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for crispy results.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, but note the salmon will lose some crispiness.

10 FAQs About Healthy Bang Bang Salmon

1. Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, thaw the salmon completely and pat it dry before seasoning.

2. Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild-medium heat. Adjust the sriracha for more or less spice.

3. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

4. Can I bake the salmon instead?

Absolutely! Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through.

5. Can I use salmon with skin?

Yes, but remove the skin before cutting into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

6. Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, the salmon reheats well, and the sauce can be made ahead of time. Keep them stored separately for freshness.

7. How do I make it sweeter?

Add more honey or Thai sweet chili sauce for a sweeter sauce.

8. Can I grill the salmon instead?

Yes, grill the salmon pieces on skewers for an outdoor-friendly version.

9. What’s a good substitute for sriracha?

You can use chili garlic sauce or hot sauce of your choice.

10. How do I prevent the salmon from sticking to the air fryer?

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the salmon.

Conclusion

This Healthy Bang Bang Salmon is the perfect balance of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drizzled with a creamy sweet-and-spicy sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal or enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.

Fire up your air fryer and give this delicious salmon recipe a try tonight—you won’t regret it! 🐟🔥

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