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This bang bang salmon made perfect in just 15 minutes is a weeknight game-changer—quick enough for busy evenings but so delicious you will want to make it for company too. Tender broiled salmon gets a golden crust and is smothered in a creamy-spicy bang bang sauce that brings restaurant flavor right to your kitchen.
I stumbled on bang bang salmon one night with very little time to make dinner and it became an instant favorite—the sauce practically begs to be eaten by the spoonful and my whole family now requests it at least once a month.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Salmon fillets: Fresh fillets are best for texture and flavor. Opt for wild-caught if possible as they have a firmer texture and more pronounced taste.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the bang bang sauce adds richness. Go for a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Sesame oil: A small amount gives deep nutty flavor. Toasted is ideal for extra aroma.
- Sriracha: Brings spice and a garlicky kick. Adjust to your heat preference.
- Honey: Adds a balance of sweetness to the sauce.
- Rice vinegar: Lifts and brightens the sauce. Choose unseasoned for a cleaner tang.
- Soy sauce: Adds an umami backdrop. Low sodium is a good pick to control salt level.
- Green onions: For garnish they add freshness and a light crunch.
How to Make It
- Preheat the Oven:
- Turn your broiler on to high and let it heat up for at least five minutes. Line a sheet pan with parchment so the salmon does not stick and clean-up is easy.
- Mix the Bang Bang Sauce:
- In a small bowl combine mayonnaise sriracha honey rice vinegar and soy sauce. Whisk until completely smooth and blended. Add the sesame oil at the end for the best aroma and flavor.
- Prepare the Salmon:
- Pat salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Lay them skin-side down on the lined sheet. Brush each fillet with a thick even coating of bang bang sauce. Make sure both sides are covered so every bite gets some of that creamy heat.
- Broil the Salmon:
- Place the pan on the upper rack about five or six inches from the broiler. Watch very closely. Broil for eight to ten minutes. The salmon should look caramelized on top and flake easily with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven. Sprinkle on sliced green onions while the salmon is still hot. Serve right away with your favorite sides.
Soy sauce and sriracha together are my secret weapons in this sauce. Super savory with just the right punch of heat—once I saw my kids scooping up extra with rice I knew it was going to be a regular on our table.
Flavor Boosters
Let leftover salmon cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to two days. Gently reheat in a low oven or enjoy cold flaked into salads. The bang bang sauce stays fresh refrigerated up to one week.
Serving Suggestions
Bang bang salmon is perfect with steamed white rice or brown rice. Toss together a crunchy cabbage slaw and drizzle extra sauce over the top for a bowl meal style dinner. Fresh cucumber salad and lime wedges make it extra bright and summery.
Creative Twists
If sriracha is not available use any hot sauce or even a bit of chili paste. Greek yogurt can replace some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. Maple syrup or agave works in place of honey if you prefer. Try adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish and crunch.
You would not believe how often this bang bang salmon has saved a night when I forgot to plan dinner. Friends have requested the recipe again and again and it is my ace in the hole for impressing people fast.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What is Bang Bang sauce made of?
Bang Bang sauce combines mayonnaise, sriracha, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a dash of sesame oil for a spicy, creamy kick perfect for salmon.
- → How long should I broil the salmon?
Broil the salmon for 8-10 minutes until it’s cooked through and easily flakes with a fork. Watch carefully to avoid burning the sauce.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the Bang Bang sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. Stir before use for best consistency.
- → What sides pair well with this salmon?
Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad complement the bold flavors and balance the richness of the dish.
- → Can I use another fish instead of salmon?
Yes, this sauce works well with other firm white fish such as cod or halibut. Adjust broiling time as needed for different fillets.