Delicious Bang Bang Salmon Bowl You’ll Love to Make
Hey! If you’re looking for a vibrant, fresh, and super tasty meal that feels both fancy and simple, this Bang Bang Salmon Bowl is where it’s at. I adore making this dish because it brings together crispy salmon bites with crunchy veggies and a creamy, spicy sauce that’s just bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s colorful, easy to eat, and perfect for lunch or dinner when you want something a little special but fuss-free.
Nutritional Benefits of Bang Bang Salmon Bowls
One of the things I love about this recipe is how healthy it is without sacrificing taste! Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart and brain — plus it’s an excellent source of protein. The fresh veggies (cucumber, purple cabbage, and carrots) add fiber and important vitamins, helping keep your digestion smooth and boosting your immune system.
The bang bang sauce made with mayonnaise and chili brings a creamy and spicy kick, and using moderate amounts lets you enjoy the flavor without overloading on calories. It’s really a balanced dish that feels indulgent but is super nourishing.
Adaptable Variations to Try
- For a milder sauce: Swap the sriracha for a mild chili sauce or reduce the amount to suit your heat preference. You can also add extra honey to sweeten it up.
- Swap out salmon: Try this recipe with cooked shrimp, tofu cubes, or even crispy chicken if seafood isn’t your thing.
- Make it gluten-free: Just double check any chili sauce or condiments you use to make sure they’re gluten-free. Most sweet chili sauces are naturally gluten-free but it’s always good to confirm.
- Pickled veggies twist: If you like a tangy zing, toss the purple cabbage and carrots in a little rice vinegar and sugar before assembling the bowl—adds an amazing pop of flavor!
Step-By-Step Bang Bang Salmon Bowl Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1-2 tbsp sriracha (adjust to heat preference)
- 1-2 tbsp sweet chili sauce (or honey with a bit of chili paste)
- 1 tsp lime juice (optional)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable)
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage (raw or lightly pickled)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrot
- 1 tsp black and white sesame seeds
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, sweet chili sauce, and lime juice to create the bang bang sauce. Taste and adjust the spice or sweetness as you like, then set this aside.
- Pat the salmon cubes dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the salmon cubes in the pan in a single layer without crowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they get a nice golden crust and are cooked through but still moist inside. Remove from heat.
- Prepare your bowl by arranging the diced cucumber, shredded purple cabbage, and shredded carrot in neat sections around the bowl.
- Place the seared salmon cubes right in the center or on top of the veggies.
- Drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over the salmon, and serve the rest on the side for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped fresh chives on top for a beautiful garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the wonderful mix of warm salmon, crisp veggies, and creamy spicy sauce!
Practical Tips for Success
- Make sure your salmon cubes are dry before cooking — this helps achieve a crispy, golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if needed, cook the salmon in batches to get even searing.
- Feel free to add sliced avocado or radishes for extra texture and creaminess.
- If you want to save time, prepare the bang bang sauce and chop veggies ahead of time and store separately in the fridge.
- Use fresh lime juice for a bright, tangy note but skip or reduce it if you prefer the sauce sweeter.
Equipment Needed
To make this dish smooth and easy, here’s what you’ll want handy:
- A sharp knife and cutting board for prepping salmon and veggies
- A small mixing bowl to whisk the bang bang sauce
- A large non-stick skillet or frying pan for searing salmon cubes
- A spatula or tongs to turn salmon gently
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls for assembling the dish
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen salmon? Yes! Just thaw it completely and pat dry before cutting into cubes to help with searing.
- Is this recipe spicy? It can be! The heat depends on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to adjust it or make a milder version with less or no sriracha.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the sauce and veggies in advance, but it’s best to cook the salmon just before serving so it stays crispy and fresh.
- What can I serve with this dish? This bowl is great on its own, but you can add steamed rice or quinoa if you want it more filling.
- How should leftovers be stored? Store leftover salmon and sauce separately in the fridge and consume within 1-2 days. Reheat salmon gently to avoid overcooking.
Give This Bang Bang Salmon Bowl a Try!
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this recipe! It’s a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy salmon that’s fun to make and even better to eat. If you give it a go, I’d love for you to share your photos and experiences with me on Pinterest. Let’s inspire each other to cook delicious, healthy meals every day!

