Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls are a fun and tasty meal! They feature crispy salmon bites topped with a creamy, spicy sauce. Plus, they come with fresh veggies and rice!
Making these bowls feels like a party on your plate! I love mixing everything together and giving it a good stir. Each bite is packed with flavor and crunch—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star here. If you can’t find salmon, try using tofu for a vegetarian option or shrimp for a different flavor. I love the richness of salmon, but don’t hesitate to switch it up based on your preference!
Rice: White rice is typical, but brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice work great! Each substitute adds its own texture and flavor. I often use quinoa for added protein and a nutty taste.
Broccoli: Broccoli florets add crunch and color. Feel free to substitute with snap peas, green beans, or asparagus if broccoli isn’t available. I enjoy using a mix of veggies for more variety!
Bang Bang Sauce: The creamy sauce balances the spiciness of sriracha. If you want a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This can boost the protein content too!
How Do You Ensure the Salmon is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon can be tricky, but these steps will help you get it just right:
- Start with room temperature salmon for even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat and a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Look for that pink center to know it’s done!
- Add the glaze in the last minute to avoid burning and to keep the flavor bright.
By paying attention to these details, you can enjoy perfectly tender and flavorful salmon in your bowls!
Bang Bang Salmon Bite Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowls:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 cups cooked white rice (e.g., sushi rice or jasmine rice)
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed or lightly roasted
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Salmon Glaze:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and making the sauce, and about 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once done, set it aside and keep it warm for later. This will be the bed for your delicious salmon bites!
2. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Taste it to make sure the flavor is just right for you. Set this sauce aside for later—it’ll be the star of the dish!
3. Prepare the Salmon Glaze:
In another small bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. This glaze will add a wonderful flavor to the salmon while it cooks. Set it aside too!
4. Cook the Salmon Bites:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil to coat the bottom. Once hot, add the salmon cubes and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and just cooked through. In the last minute of cooking, pour the salmon glaze over the salmon and gently stir to coat them completely. Then, take the pan off the heat!
5. Steam or Roast Broccoli:
While the salmon cooks, you can also steam or roast the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green. This usually takes around 3-5 minutes, depending on your method.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Grab your serving bowls! Divide the warm rice among them. On top of each bowl, arrange the glazed salmon bites, steamed broccoli, sliced cucumber, and avocado slices. Try to make it colorful and appealing!
7. Garnish & Serve:
Finish each bowl by garnishing with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor. You can serve the Bang Bang sauce on the side or drizzle it over each bowl as you like.
8. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! You can mix everything together for a burst of flavors or take a bite of each ingredient separately. Either way, you’re in for a treat!
This recipe brings together fresh, creamy avocado and crunchy vegetables with the spicy-sweet glazed salmon bites and silky Bang Bang sauce for a delightful meal!
Can I Substitute the Salmon with Another Protein?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken or shrimp work well in this recipe. For a vegetarian option, try using tofu or tempeh, seasoned and cooked similarly to the salmon.
How Can I Make the Bang Bang Sauce Spicier?
If you like a kick, add more sriracha to the Bang Bang sauce! You can also incorporate chili flakes for an extra heat boost. Adjust according to your personal spice tolerance!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring the salmon does not overcook.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, brown rice makes a great substitute! Just remember that it has a longer cooking time, so you’ll want to prepare it accordingly. It adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber!
