Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 2 · Technique: Air Frying · Storage: Up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Quick Answer
Experience a burst of warmth and comfort this fall with a quick and delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bowl made in the air fryer.
When I think of fall and the rich flavors that come with the season, I can't help but crave something that combines both warmth and comfort. Living in New York City, the air is getting a little crisp, and with Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I'm constantly looking for easy yet flavorful dishes to serve at get-togethers with family and friends. That's where my love for the Bang Bang Salmon Bowl comes in. It's a delightful, colorful bowl that satisfies my seafood cravings while packing in a punch of taste and health.
A Flavorful Dish for Fall Gatherings
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Time-efficient: Perfect for weeknight dinners and can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
- Nutritious: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and lots of fresh vegetables.
- Flavorful: The creamy and spicy bang bang sauce elevates the dish without overwhelming it.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite toppings or grains.
- Visually appealing: A colorful bowl that's perfect for impressing family and friends.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bowl:
Salmon & Sauce
- Salmon Fillets: Two fillets, ideally fresh and skin-on
- Bang Bang Sauce: ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, 2 teaspoons honey, juice of 1 lime
Base & Toppings
- Brown Rice: One cup (cooked)
- Vegetables: Sliced avocado, cucumber, shredded carrots, radishes
- Garnishes: Green onions, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro
How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Bowl (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to assemble a mouthwatering Bang Bang Salmon Bowl.
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This crucial step ensures your salmon gets that perfect crispy texture.
Step 2: Prep the Salmon
Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, which helps the seasonings stick better and promotes crispy skin. Season with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until you achieve a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy mixture.
Step 4: Air Fry the Salmon
Brush a thin layer of the bang bang sauce over the fillets, then place them in the air fryer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, checking for doneness to ensure a golden crust and tender center.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Start with a base of cooked brown rice in a bowl, layer on the crispy salmon, and add your mixed vegetables. Drizzle with the remaining bang bang sauce and finish with green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Salmon: Keep a close eye on your salmon; it cooks quickly in the air fryer. Aim for that perfect, slight jiggle in the center.
- Ignoring the Marinade Time: Allowing the salmon to soak in some of the bang bang sauce before cooking enhances the flavor. Don't rush this step!
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with Toppings: Don't feel limited to my veggie choices. Thinly sliced bell peppers, steamed edamame, or even pickled vegetables can elevate this bowl.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If Sriracha isn't your thing, feel free to use a milder hot sauce or leave it out entirely for a more subdued flavor.
- Meal Prep: This bowl works great for meal prep. Prepare everything in advance and assemble right before serving for fresh flavors.
Variations
- Try different proteins such as chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Substitute brown rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Use different sauces, like teriyaki or a sesame glaze, to switch up the flavor profile.
How to Serve
- Serve the salmon bowl warm for the best flavor.
- Garnish with additional herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh touch.
- Pair with a light salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Bang Bang sauce and chop the vegetables a day in advance for quick assembly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the salmon in the air fryer for a few minutes to maintain its crispness.
- Freezing: Not recommended for this recipe as the texture may deteriorate upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Testing this recipe reminded me of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that not only looks good but tastes incredible, too. It's a joy to find a meal that can be cooked quickly yet still impress my guests at any holiday gathering.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~450 calories · 30g protein · 45g carbs · 15g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels, then season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
- Brush salmon fillets with a thin layer of the bang bang sauce, then place in the air fryer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Assemble your bowl starting with a base of brown rice, topped with crispy salmon and mixed vegetables. Drizzle with remaining bang bang sauce and add garnishes.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What can I substitute for brown rice?
If you prefer, you can substitute brown rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or any other whole grain that you like. Each option will add a unique flavor and texture to the bowl.
3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can increase the amount of Sriracha in the bang bang sauce, or add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes as garnish to kick up the heat!
