Description
Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls
Get ready to fall in love with these crispy bang bang salmon bites! This dish brings together juicy salmon with an irresistible crispy coating, tossed in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. Served over a bed of brown rice with fresh avocado, pickled cucumbers, and sautéed broccoli, this bowl offers a balanced meal full of protein, omega-3s, and plenty of veggies. Perfect for a quick and nutritious dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
4 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
2 tsp sriracha
1 Tbsp avocado oil
1 lb salmon filet, cubed
1/2 cup coconut aminos
1 Tbsp rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sriracha (optional)
2 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)
3 cups cooked brown rice
1 head broccoli, chopped
1 avocado, sliced
Directions:
1. Prepare cucumber salad; let marinate.
2. Cook rice per instructions.
3. Combine sauce ingredients. Cube salmon.
4. Heat oil, cook salmon, add sauce.
5. Add rice, veggies, salmon to bowls. Drizzle with sauce.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 976
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Pickled Cucumbers: Thinly slice a cucumber. In a bowl, whisk 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 1 Tbsp water, 1 tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the cucumbers and set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Rice: Prepare 3 cups of brown rice according to package instructions. Keep warm.
3. Make the Bang Bang Sauce: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (or mayo), 4 Tbsp sweet chili sauce, and 2 tsp sriracha. Set aside.
4. Cube the Salmon: Pat a 1 lb salmon filet dry with paper towels. Cut it into uniform 1-inch cubes.
5. Sauté the Broccoli: Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped broccoli and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper, then remove from the skillet.
6. Cook the Salmon: In the same skillet, add another 1 Tbsp of oil. Add the salmon cubes in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
7. Sauce the Salmon: Reduce heat to low. Pour half of the prepared Bang Bang sauce over the salmon bites. Gently toss to coat evenly and cook for 1 more minute.
8. Assemble the Bowls: Divide the warm rice among bowls. Top with sautéed broccoli, avocado slices, pickled cucumbers, and the saucy salmon bites. Drizzle with remaining sauce.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve these bowls immediately while the salmon is still warm and crispy. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra brightness. If you prefer a different base, substitute the brown rice with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or mixed greens. The dish pairs wonderfully with a light, citrusy white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
How-to Summary
Cube salmon and make a creamy Bang Bang sauce with Greek yogurt, sweet chili, and sriracha. Sauté broccoli and set aside. Cook salmon cubes in a hot skillet until crispy, then toss in half the sauce. Assemble bowls with cooked brown rice, broccoli, avocado, quick-pickled cucumbers, and the saucy salmon. Drizzle with remaining sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fish? Yes, firm white fish like cod or halibut work well. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store components separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Reheat salmon gently in a skillet to preserve crispiness.
Is there a substitute for coconut aminos? Soy sauce or tamari (use slightly less) are excellent substitutes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? You can prep the sauce, chop veggies, and cube the salmon ahead. Cook and assemble just before serving for best texture.
How can I make the salmon bites crispier? For extra crunch, lightly toss the salmon cubes in cornstarch or all-purpose flour before pan-frying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many salmon cubes at once steams them instead of creating a crispy sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F; it will continue to cook slightly after removed from heat.
- Skipping the Pat-Dry Step: Not drying the salmon cubes thoroughly prevents proper browning and crispiness.
- Adding Sauce Too Early: Adding the Bang Bang sauce at the beginning of cooking can cause it to burn. Only add it at the end to glaze the salmon.
Conclusion
These Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls are a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. They deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy, savory salmon coated in a creamy, spicy-sweet sauce, paired with fresh and wholesome sides. This recipe is a reliable, nutritious, and delicious option for any weeknight dinner, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly exciting and satisfying.