Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls are fun and tasty! They feature crispy salmon bites drizzled with a creamy, spicy sauce, all served over a bed of rice and fresh veggies.
These bowls are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite. I love adding some crunchy toppings for a bit of extra texture! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here, giving that lovely flavor. If you can’t get fresh, frozen salmon works too—just thaw it properly before cooking. For a twist, try using seared tuna or cooked shrimp.
Brown Rice: Brown rice is great for fiber and nutrients. If you’re short on time, quick-cooking rice or even quinoa works well here. For a low-carb option, you can switch to cauliflower rice.
Vegetables: The mix of shredded carrots, kale, cucumber, and edamame adds freshness and crunch. Feel free to use spinach instead of kale or add bell peppers for more color. You can even toss in whatever leftover veggies you have on hand!
Bang Bang Sauce: Mayo gives the sauce its creaminess. To keep it lighter, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. You can adjust the heat with Sriracha for your preferred spiciness.
How Do I Get the Salmon Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but follow these steps for great results! Aim for a slightly golden, caramelized exterior with a moist inside.
- Start with a medium-high heated skillet to get that nice sear. Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook the salmon cubes for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally. They are done when they easily flake with a fork and are no longer translucent.
- For the best flavor, let the salmon sit in the marinade for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors before cooking.
Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped kale, lightly steamed or massaged
- 1 cup thinly sliced cucumber
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds (white and black mixed)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (regular or vegan)
- 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Pinch of garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, including marinating and cooking time. It’s a quick, easy meal that packs a punch of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder until well combined and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the spiciness by adding more Sriracha if you like it hotter. Set the sauce aside for now.
2. Marinate the Salmon:
In a medium bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and olive oil (or sesame oil). Add the salmon cubes to the bowl and gently toss them in the marinade until fully coated. Let the salmon marinate for about 10-15 minutes—this adds so much flavor!
3. Cook the Salmon:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated salmon cubes in a single layer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the salmon is cooked through and has a nice caramelized edge. Be careful not to overcook it!
4. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked brown rice among serving bowls. Then, arrange the cooked salmon, shredded carrots, steamed kale, sliced cucumber, edamame, and avocado in sections on top of the rice. Make it colorful and appealing!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle the delicious bang bang sauce over the arranged ingredients in each bowl. Finish off by sprinkling sesame seeds on top for that extra crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty, flavorful Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls!
This dish beautifully combines tender salmon, fresh veggies, and a zesty sauce for a delightful and nutritious meal!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Salmon?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly, while chicken will take a bit longer to ensure it’s fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, try adding a little more Sriracha to the bang bang sauce. You can also mix in chopped jalapeños or drizzle some chili oil on top for an extra kick!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat the salmon and veggies on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. Just be cautious not to overheat the salmon, as it can become dry.
Can I Prepare the Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the bang bang sauce up to 3 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate a bit while stored.