Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide
Delight in the bold flavors of Bang Bang Salmon paired with a refreshing cucumber salad, perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends.
This Bang Bang Salmon recipe is inspired by the popular Asian-inspired sauce that adds a kick to any dish. The combination of crispy salmon and the coolness of cucumber salad makes it a delightful meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and spicy sauce that elevates the salmon
- Crisp cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Perfect for Any Occasion
Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is an ideal dish for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a special meal for your family, or simply looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the bill. The vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation will impress your guests, making them think you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, the dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for those warmer evenings when you want something refreshing.
The combination of rich, spicy salmon with the crunchy, refreshing cucumber salad creates a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a dish that encourages conversation and enjoyment among friends and family, making your gatherings even more memorable.
Nutritional Benefits
Salmon is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. It’s an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a crucial role in heart health and brain function. Including salmon in your diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall well-being. Coupled with a fresh cucumber salad, this meal offers a balance of nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle.
Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them a great addition to any meal. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, providing hydration and promoting healthy digestion. This dish, therefore, not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your body.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Bang Bang Salmon turns out perfectly, pay close attention to the cooking time. Salmon fillets can vary in thickness, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Aim for a crispy exterior while ensuring the inside remains moist and flaky. If you have a meat thermometer, cook the salmon until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for optimal doneness.
Feel free to customize the Bang Bang sauce to suit your taste preferences. If you love heat, add more sriracha, or if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of sauce. The cucumber salad can also be adjusted; consider adding herbs like cilantro or mint for an extra layer of freshness.
Ingredients
For the Bang Bang Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Set aside.
Cook the Salmon
Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until crispy and cooked through.
Assemble the Cucumber Salad
In a separate bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
Serve
Place cooked salmon on a plate, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, and serve alongside cucumber salad.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions
Bang Bang Salmon pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it over a bed of jasmine rice or quinoa. The grains soak up the delightful sauce and make the dish even more satisfying. Alternatively, you can serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty and colorful plate.
For a lighter option, serve the salmon and cucumber salad with a side of steamed asparagus or broccoli. These vegetables complement the flavors without overwhelming the palate, allowing the Bang Bang sauce to shine.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, storing them correctly is key to maintaining their flavor and freshness. Place the salmon and cucumber salad in separate airtight containers. The salmon can be refrigerated for up to three days, while the cucumber salad is best enjoyed fresh but can last for up to two days in the fridge.
When reheating the salmon, do so gently to avoid drying it out. A quick reheat in the microwave or a brief stint in a skillet can bring back the deliciousness without compromising texture. However, the cucumber salad is best served cold, so it’s advisable to enjoy it fresh.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for sriracha?
You can use any hot sauce you prefer or adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
→ Is there a vegetarian option?
Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with tofu or tempeh, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
Delight in the bold flavors of Bang Bang Salmon paired with a refreshing cucumber salad, perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Globetrotter Food Guide
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Bang Bang Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. Set aside.
Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook salmon for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until crispy and cooked through.
In a separate bowl, combine sliced cucumbers, red onion, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
Place cooked salmon on a plate, drizzle with Bang Bang sauce, and serve alongside cucumber salad.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g