Introduction
Imagine a dish that perfectly balances sweet and spicy, with tender salmon that flakes beautifully on your fork. This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is an absolute delight, combining the rich flavors of seared fish with a luscious, creamy sauce that has just the right kick. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough to serve at your next gathering. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey that will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect temperature for cooking.
- Season the salmon fillets with a sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides, ensuring they’re well-seasoned for that burst of flavor.
- In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering and ready for action.
- Carefully add the salmon fillets to the skillet, skin-side down, and sear them for about 3-4 minutes until the skin becomes wonderfully crispy and golden brown.
- While the salmon is sizzling away, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice in a bowl until everything is beautifully combined, creating a creamy sauce with a hint of zesty goodness.
- Once the salmon is crispy, gently flip the fillets over and remove the skillet from the heat.
- Generously brush the salmon with the creamy sauce mixture, allowing it to coat the fish and infuse it with those fantastic flavors.
- Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the salmon is perfectly cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- When it’s time to serve, sprinkle the salmon with the chopped green onions and a dusting of sesame seeds for a lovely crunch and presentation.
Notes or Tips
For that extra level of flavor, consider marinating the salmon in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds a delicious depth to each bite! If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your spice preference — whether you like it mild or with a fiery kick, make it your own!
Cooking Techniques
Perfectly searing salmon is all about the heat. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the fish, as this will help create that crispy skin. Flipping the salmon carefully is key too; using a fish spatula can make this task much easier. Baking allows the salmon to finish cooking evenly, keeping it moist and ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
FAQ
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.
What’s the best side dish for Bang Bang Salmon?
This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is a culinary hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, spicy sauce and succulent salmon, it’s bound to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare for a delightful meal that’s both comforting and exciting!