Oh boy, do I have a treat for you! Let me tell you about my absolute favorite snack that’s sure to make your taste buds do a happy dance: Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites. These little morsels of ocean goodness are not just delicious but packed with flavor that gives a whole new meaning to snacking!
I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering when my cousin decided to whip up a batch. The moment I tasted that crispy outside and tender salmon within, I was hooked. I’ve always loved salmon, but this bright, spicy twist took it to another level. So, whether you’re having a casual night in or you’re entertaining friends, these bites are the perfect crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re pretty quick to make, and who doesn’t love a good crispy snack?
What’s in Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
The beauty of these Salmon Bites lies not just in their taste but also in the wonderful ingredients we get to work with. Let me break it down for you:
Salmon: The star of the dish! Fresh, flaky salmon is rich in omega-3s and delivers tons of flavor. I prefer using wild-caught salmon for a more robust taste, but farmed works too if that’s what you can find.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs provide the perfect crunchy texture that makes these bites satisfying and oh-so-addictive. They’re light and airy, ensuring that they crisp up beautifully.
Bang Bang Sauce: This zesty, creamy sauce combines mayonnaise, Sriracha, and a bit of honey. It’s like a flavor explosion that takes these bites from good to absolutely divine. Adjust the Sriracha to your heat preference!
Egg: A binder that helps hold our salmon bites together. It adds moisture and a little protein punch.
Green Onions: Chopped and mixed in for that fresh, vibrant touch. It not only adds a burst of color but also a subtle oniony flavor that complements the salmon.
Is Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Good for You?
Absolutely! These bites are healthier than your average snack. Let’s take a look at the benefits:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Salmon is well-known for being a fantastic source of omega-3s, which promote heart health. A good excuse for going back for seconds, right?
Protein: Each salmon bite is packed with protein, making it a great option for a post-workout snack or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Low Carb and Gluten-Free: If you swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko, these bites can easily be made gluten-free!
But just as with everything, moderation is key! The sauce does add some calories, so if you’re watching that, consider using less or replacing some of the ingredients.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 4 servings:
– 1 lb Salmon fillet, skinless and bones removed
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1 large Egg
– 3 green onions, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Oil for frying (I love using canola or peanut oil)
– For the Bang Bang Sauce:
– 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
– 2-3 tablespoons Sriracha (adjust for spice)
– 1 tablespoon Honey
How to Make Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites?
Ready to unleash your inner chef? Let’s get started!
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (if you want to bake them instead of frying).
2. Chop your salmon into bite-sized pieces. No need to be perfect here; a little rustic is charming!
3. In a bowl, mix the chopped salmon with the chopped green onions, salt, and pepper.
4. In another bowl, beat the egg and then add it to the salmon mixture. This will help everything stick together nicely.
5. Using your hands, form small patties or bites with the salmon mixture.
6. Next up, roll each salmon bite in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This is where the crispy magic happens!
7. You can choose to fry them in a skillet with hot oil (about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown) or bake them in the oven on a lined baking sheet for about 15 minutes or until crispy.
8. While they’re cooking, mix all the Bang Bang Sauce ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
9. Once your bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the heat. Serve them hot, drizzled or dipped in the Bang Bang Sauce.
Snazzy Serving Suggestions
Here’s where you can get a little creative!
– Serve your Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites over a bed of crispy lettuce for a vibrant salad option.
– Pair them with some avocado slices or a cool cucumber salad on the side to balance the heat of the sauce.
– Looking for a different kick? Add a squeeze of lime or some fresh cilantro on top before serving.
Trust me, once you try these bites, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. I can’t wait for you to whip these up! Please share your experience and let me know how much you love them! Happy cooking!
