What makes the perfect weeknight dinner? For me, it’s all about quick and easy homemade recipes like these crispy bang bang salmon bites, made with tender salmon and a rich gravy. Save this idea for a delicious family favorite meal to try soon

crispy bang bang salmon bites on a white plate with gravy and parsley

Introduction

Cooking a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the right ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Our crispy bang bang salmon bites are the perfect example of this. Made with everyday ingredients and requiring minimal effort, these bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor and texture. The combination of crispy exterior, tender salmon, and creamy bang bang sauce is a match made in heaven. Plus, serving them on a white plate with a side of gravy and a sprinkle of parsley adds a touch of elegance to this otherwise simple dish. So, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, flavorful, and visually appealing, you’ve come to the right place.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in the bang bang sauce, combined with the natural taste of the salmon, creates a dish that’s both familiar and exciting.
• The use of panko breadcrumbs for the crispy coating ensures a light and airy texture that doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the salmon.
• The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, and the impressive results are sure to make you feel like a culinary pro.

Key Ingredients

To make our crispy bang bang salmon bites, you’ll need the following ingredients: 1 pound of salmon fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup of bang bang sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Gravy (homemade or store-bought), for serving. If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute them with regular breadcrumbs, but keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different. Similarly, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of bang bang sauce or substitute it with a mixture of mayonnaise and sriracha.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the salmon into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
2. Step 2: Dip each piece of salmon into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated salmon pieces on a plate or tray.
3. Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the coated salmon pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Step 4: While the salmon is cooking, warm the bang bang sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Once the salmon is done, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve the salmon bites on a white plate, drizzled with the warmed bang bang sauce and a side of gravy. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• To ensure that your salmon bites are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, make sure not to overcook them. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through.
• If you’re having trouble getting the breadcrumb mixture to stick to the salmon, try dipping the salmon pieces in a little bit of mayonnaise or egg before coating them with the breadcrumbs.
• To make your dish more substantial, serve the salmon bites with a side of rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.

Heat Control

When cooking the salmon bites, it’s essential to control the heat to prevent them from burning or cooking unevenly. Medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior and a tender interior. If you notice that the salmon is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium or medium-low. Conversely, if the salmon is not browning quickly enough, increase the heat to high. Use a thermometer to ensure that the oil reaches the ideal temperature of 350°F to 375°F.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor is a critical component of our crispy bang bang salmon bites. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to not overmix the breadcrumb mixture, and press the crumbs gently onto the salmon pieces to adhere. Also, don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the salmon, as this can cause the breadcrumbs to become soggy. Cook the salmon in batches if necessary, to ensure that each piece has enough room to cook evenly.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To add extra crunch to your salmon bites, try adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the breadcrumb mixture.
• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the salmon pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, maple syrup, and rice vinegar for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• To make cleanup easier, line the skillet with parchment paper or a silicone mat before cooking the salmon.

Storage Tips

• To store leftover salmon bites, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until crispy and warm.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooked salmon bites in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until crispy and warm.
• When storing the bang bang sauce, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good stir before using.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you want to give our crispy bang bang salmon bites as a gift, consider packaging them in a decorative tin or jar with a side of bang bang sauce and a sprinkle of parsley. You could also wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a gift basket with some crusty bread or roasted vegetables. Add a personal touch with a handwritten note or a small bouquet of fresh herbs.

Flavor Variations

• For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• For a tangy twist, substitute the bang bang sauce with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, and chopped cilantro.
• For a smoky flavor, add some smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the breadcrumb mixture.

Troubleshooting

• If your salmon bites are not crispy, try increasing the heat or cooking them for a longer period.
• If your bang bang sauce is too thick, try thinning it out with a little bit of water or mayonnaise.
• If your salmon is overcooked, try reducing the cooking time or temperature.

FAQs

• Can I freeze the salmon bites before cooking? Yes, you can freeze the coated salmon pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Cook them frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, but make sure to check the ingredients of the panko breadcrumbs and bang bang sauce to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

Conclusion

Our crispy bang bang salmon bites are a game-changer for anyone looking for a delicious, easy, and impressive dish to serve at their next dinner party. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations and ingredients. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of cooking and sharing a meal with the people you love. Happy cooking!