If you’re a fan of flavorful bowls filled with crispy salmon, creamy avocado, and a savory sauce that’ll make you crave more, this Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls recipe is for you. The combination of crispy, sticky salmon bites, fresh vegetables, and a spicy-sweet bang bang sauce makes this dish a satisfying, healthy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowl offers the best of everything: a crispy, golden exterior on the salmon, a creamy yet slightly spicy bang bang sauce, and a healthy balance of fresh vegetables and rice. The delicious, rich flavors of the salmon and sauce perfectly complement the cool crunch of cucumber salad and the creaminess of avocado. Not only does this recipe satisfy your hunger, but it also packs in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential micronutrients, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Bang Bang Sauce:

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
4 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
2 tsp sriracha

For the Salmon Bites:

1 Tbsp avocado oil for cooking
1 lb salmon filet, chopped into bite-sized chunks
1/2 cup coconut aminos (or liquid aminos or soy sauce)
1 Tbsp rice vinegar
2 large cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sriracha (optional)
2 tsp toasted sesame oil (optional)

For the Bowls:

1 batch Asian cucumber salad
3 cups cooked brown rice
1 large head broccoli, chopped into florets
1 large ripe avocado, sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the cucumber salad by mixing all the ingredients in a small bowl. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or longer if possible).
Cook the rice according to the package instructions. For two people, 1 cup of dry rice will yield about 3 cups of cooked rice.
While the rice cooks, mix the bang bang sauce ingredients in a small bowl until well-combined. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Steam, sauté, or roast the broccoli to your liking. For sautéing, heat 1 teaspoon of avocado oil and ¼ cup of water in a nonstick skillet.
To make the salmon, combine coconut aminos (or soy sauce and maple syrup), rice vinegar, garlic, sriracha, and sesame oil in a small bowl. Stir well.
Cut the raw salmon filet into bite-sized cubes. Heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the salmon chunks skin side down (if skin is on). Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
Flip the salmon and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Add the marinade sauce to the pan, and cook the salmon while continuously flipping until fully glazed and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes).
Once the salmon reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or is light pink in the center, it’s done.
To assemble the bowls, add cooked rice to two large bowls. Top with cucumber salad, sautéed broccoli, avocado slices, and salmon bites. Drizzle with the prepared bang bang sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add more sriracha to the bang bang sauce or salmon marinade for an extra kick.
Low-Carb: Replace the brown rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Air Fryer: Marinate the salmon and cook it in the air fryer at 400°F for 8-12 minutes for a crispy texture.
Vegetables: Swap out the broccoli for other vegetables such as spinach, kale, or roasted sweet potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Reheat the salmon and vegetables in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. For the best texture, reheat salmon gently to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh salmon for the best texture and flavor, but if using frozen, be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

Can I make the bang bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the bang bang sauce up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Increase the amount of sriracha in the bang bang sauce or add red pepper flakes to the marinade for the salmon.

Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?

You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like tuna or cod, though the cooking time may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free when you use coconut aminos or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.

Can I make this recipe without avocado?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of avocado, feel free to leave it out or replace it with another topping such as a soft-boiled egg or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?

The salmon is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or when the center is light pink with no rawness.

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can use white rice if you prefer, though brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the rice, cucumber salad, and bang bang sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the salmon fresh for the crispiest texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can try replacing the salmon with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of the bowl.

Conclusion

Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Bowls are a fantastic, wholesome meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a balanced and flavorful dinner. With its crispy salmon, creamy avocado, and delightful bang bang sauce, it’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that will quickly become a regular in your weeknight meal rotation. Enjoy the mix of textures and vibrant flavors in every bite!