Name: Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version); 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; 3 cups cooked jasmine rice or brown rice; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cucumber slices; 1 avocado, sliced; 2 green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds and lime wedges, for garnish

Crispy, bite-sized salmon pieces tossed in spices and baked or air-fried to golden perfection, then drizzled with a creamy, spicy-sweet bang bang sauce. I serve it over fluffy jasmine or brown rice, loaded with fresh veggies like cucumbers, shredded carrots, and avocado. It’s bold, fun, and comes together in under 30 minutes—making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or quick lunches.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Bang Bang Sauce:

1/3 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

1 tablespoon sriracha (I adjust this based on how spicy I want it)

1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

For Serving:

3 cups cooked jasmine rice or brown rice

1 cup shredded carrots

1 cup cucumber slices

2 green onions, chopped

1 avocado, sliced

Sesame seeds and lime wedges, for garnish

Directions

I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C) or set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

I pat the salmon pieces dry, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Then I spread the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet (or place them in the air fryer basket). Then I bake or air fry for 8 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway, until they turn golden and crispy.

While the salmon cooks, I whisk together the bang bang sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.

I assemble the bowls by starting with a bed of rice, then layering on the crispy salmon bites, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, avocado, and chopped green onions.

I drizzle everything generously with bang bang sauce, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 bowls.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: ~445 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap salmon for shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

If I want a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the sauce.

For extra crunch, I top the bowl with crispy wonton strips or chopped roasted peanuts.

I switch up the veggies based on what I have—like edamame, radish slices, or pickled onions.

For a low-carb version, I serve everything over cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

I store the components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. When I’m ready to eat, I reheat the salmon and rice in the microwave or air fryer, then assemble the bowl fresh with the cold veggies and sauce. I avoid freezing the assembled bowl to preserve texture.

FAQs

How can I make the salmon extra crispy?

I make sure the salmon is patted dry and fully coated in cornstarch before cooking. Using an air fryer also helps get that extra crisp texture.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, I just thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning. Excess moisture can make it soggy, so drying it is key.

Is this dish spicy?

The bang bang sauce has a mild kick from sriracha, but I can adjust the heat up or down depending on my preference.

Can I prep this ahead?

Absolutely. I often cook the salmon and rice ahead of time and store them separately. Then I assemble fresh bowls as needed.

What can I use instead of sweet chili sauce?

If I don’t have sweet chili sauce, I mix a bit of honey with sriracha and a splash of rice vinegar as a quick substitute.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls are everything I love in a meal—quick, flavorful, and balanced. With crispy salmon, creamy-spicy sauce, and fresh toppings, it’s a dish I keep coming back to. Whether I need a fast dinner or something fun for lunch, this recipe delivers every time.

Recipe: