Name: Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa in 22 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Salmon (Fresh or frozen, both work well); 1 tbsp Kosher Salt; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Paprika; 1/2 cup Mayonnaise; 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Adjust for taste); 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium if preferred); 2 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced); 1 large Avocado (Ripe); 1 cup Cucumber (Diced); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Chopped, optional); 2 tbsp Lime Juice (Fresh is best); 1 tbsp Honey (Adjust to taste)

As I surveyed my kitchen, a wave of inspiration washed over me, leading me to create a dish that transforms a typical weeknight dinner into something exciting. Enter my Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa—a vibrant explosion of flavors that’s ready in just 22 minutes. This recipe not only packs a punch with its creamy and zesty Bang Bang sauce but also comes with a refreshing salsa that adds crunch and nutrition. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet impressive, ensuring everyone around the table is satisfied and asking for more. Ready to elevate your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this delightful meal!

Why Try Bang Bang Salmon Tonight?

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 22 minutes from start to finish, making it a time-saver for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion: The Bang Bang sauce delivers a delightful kick of sweet and spicy, perfectly pairing with the creaminess of the salmon.

Fresh Salsa: The avocado cucumber salsa not only adds a refreshing crunch but also boasts healthy ingredients, making it a nutritious side.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, ensuring that family dinner is a hit.

Versatile Varieties: Feel free to switch out salmon for chicken or shrimp if you’re craving something different. Or try adding colorful veggies to the salsa for added nutrition!

Whether paired with jasmine rice or as a standalone dish, this Bang Bang Salmon promises to delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa Ingredients

• Get ready to create a delicious dish!

For the Salmon

Salmon Fillets – Fresh or frozen, both work well for a flaky, tender result.
Seasoning Mix – Elevate flavor using kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.

For the Bang Bang Sauce

Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce, giving it a rich texture.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides the signature sweet and spicy kick; adjust for taste!
Soy Sauce – Adds umami depth to the sauce; feel free to use a low-sodium version.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic offers vibrant flavor; adjust quantity based on preference.

For the Avocado Cucumber Salsa

Avocado – Must be ripe for creaminess and healthy fats; look for a slight give when gentle pressure is applied.
Cucumber – Provides a crisp, refreshing crunch to balance flavors.
Cilantro – Adds fresh herbal notes; optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.
Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity and depth; fresh is best!
Honey – Sweetens the salsa; adjust depending on your taste preferences.

This Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa is a meal you’ll want to make over and over again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). While the oven heats, take your salmon fillets and pat them dry with paper towels, ensuring a perfect sear. This initial step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love in the Bang Bang Salmon.

Step 2: Season the Salmon
In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika to create your seasoning mix. Generously sprinkle this blend over both sides of the salmon fillets, ensuring they are fully coated. This will enhance the flavor of the fish and serve as a delicious foundation for the Bang Bang sauce.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, minced garlic, and soy sauce. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness as needed. This creamy, zesty sauce will bring your Bang Bang Salmon to life, so don’t hold back on flavors!

Step 4: Coat the Salmon
Place the seasoned salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush the prepared Bang Bang sauce generously over the top of each fillet, ensuring a tasty layer that will caramelize beautifully as it bakes. Save a bit of sauce for drizzling later!

Step 5: Bake the Salmon
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the salmon for about 12 minutes. The salmon should look opaque and flake easily when tested with a fork. For an extra touch of flavor, consider broiling it for the last minute to achieve a delicious, golden caramelization on top.

Step 6: Prepare the Avocado Cucumber Salsa
While the salmon bakes, prepare the refreshing avocado cucumber salsa. In a mixing bowl, combine diced avocado, chopped cucumber, cilantro, freshly squeezed lime juice, a pinch of salt, and honey. Gently toss the ingredients together until well mixed, creating a vibrant and crunchy accompaniment for your Bang Bang Salmon.

Step 7: Serve the Dish
Once baked, remove the salmon from the oven and transfer it to plates. Serve the Bang Bang Salmon over a bed of jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful juices. Top with your homemade avocado cucumber salsa for a delightful contrast that will excite your taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

These Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the salmon and prepare the Bang Bang sauce up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh and flavorful. The avocado cucumber salsa can also be prepped a few hours ahead (approximately up to 3 hours, as the avocado may brown), but for the best quality, make it fresh right before serving. When ready to serve, simply bake the marinated salmon for about 12 minutes and top it with the salsa right before enjoying. This approach not only saves you time but ensures that the dish is just as delicious and vibrant!

What to Serve with Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa

Savor the delightful experience of a well-rounded meal with these perfect pairings for your next dinner.

Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the savory Bang Bang sauce while providing a subtle sweetness.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and vibrant, steamed broccoli adds a nutritious crunch and rich color to your plate, balancing the dish beautifully.
Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad studded with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers offers a nutty flavor and textural contrast, enhancing freshness.
Crispy Garlic Bread: The warmth of crispy garlic bread pairs delightfully with salmon, perfect for mopping up any remaining sauce.
Grilled Asparagus: Charred and tender, grilled asparagus provides a sophisticated touch, complementing the meal with a smoky flavor.
Mango Chutney: Sweet and spicy mango chutney creates a delightful contrast, bringing a burst of tropical flavor that elevates your dining experience.
Chilled White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the salmon’s flavors with its crisp acidity, creating harmony on your palate.
Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, crispy coconut macaroons offer a sweet finale, their chewy texture acting as a wonderful counterpoint to the meal.

Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa Variations

Feel free to explore your culinary creativity and make this dish truly yours with these delightful twists!

Chicken Swap: Replace salmon with chicken breasts; bake until juicy, adding a smoky flavor to the Bang Bang sauce.
Shrimp Delight: Use tender shrimp instead of salmon; they’re quick to cook and soak up the sauce beautifully. They’ll bring a delightful sweetness to every bite!
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or snap peas to the salsa for a vibrant crunch. This boost not only enhances the nutritional profile but also adds lovely color to your plate.
Herb Infusion: Try using fresh mint in place of cilantro in the salsa for a refreshing twist. Mint brings a burst of brightness that complements the creamy avocado perfectly.
Spice it Up: For those who enjoy heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the salsa. This adds a fiery kick that elevates the dish to new heights.
Creamy Avocado Sauce: Blend the avocado with yogurt or sour cream for a creamy sauce option instead of salsa. It offers a rich texture and a different flavor profile while maintaining freshness.
Whole Grains: Serve the salmon over quinoa or farro instead of rice for a nutty flavor and added nutritional benefits. These grains offer satisfying chewiness, making the meal heartier.
Fruit Salsa: Substitute regular salsa with a fruity twist by adding mango or pineapple. The sweetness balances the zesty Bang Bang sauce, creating a tropical vibe at your dinner table!

For more inspiration, consider pairing this dish with a vibrant Mango Cucumber Salad or a refreshing Blueberry Cucumber Salad.

Proper Storage for Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa

Fridge: Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon fillets in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor for your quick, delicious weeknight meal.

Salsa: The avocado cucumber salsa is best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, it can be stored in a sealed container for about 4 hours. To prevent browning, consider adding an extra splash of lime juice.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the salmon with the Bang Bang sauce for up to 3 months. Wrap fillets tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the salmon in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through, avoiding overcooking to keep it moist.

Expert Tips for Bang Bang Salmon

Don’t Overcook: Ensure your salmon is perfectly cooked by checking for flakiness; it should remain moist but easily flake apart.
Parchment Paper: Use it on your baking sheet for easy cleanup; however, keep an eye on it while broiling to prevent burning.
Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness of your Bang Bang sauce to your taste; consider adding more garlic or chili for extra punch.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use ripe avocados and fresh lime juice in the salsa for optimal flavor and texture; freshness makes a big difference!
Add More Crunch: For added texture, incorporate diced bell peppers or snap peas into the avocado cucumber salsa; it elevates both flavor and nutrition!

Bang Bang Salmon with Avocado Cucumber Salsa Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe avocados?
Choosing a ripe avocado is essential for the creamy texture in your salsa. Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. If it’s hard, it’s not ready; if it feels mushy, it’s overripe. If you buy them firm, you can leave them at room temperature for a couple of days until they’re perfect for your recipe.

How should I store leftover Bang Bang Salmon?
You can store leftover Bang Bang Salmon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, simply reheat it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to avoid drying it out. To maintain its delicious taste and moisture, try to consume leftovers as soon as possible!

Can I freeze the Bang Bang Salmon?
Absolutely! To freeze Bang Bang Salmon, wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Make sure to label and date the bags for quick reference. When you are ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently—not too hot for a perfect texture!

What should I do if the sauce is too sweet?
If you find your Bang Bang sauce is overly sweet for your taste, you can enhance it by adding a touch more soy sauce or a splash of lime juice to balance it out. You can also incorporate additional minced garlic for a robust flavor. Feel free to tweak the mixture until it’s just right for your palate—cooking should be a delightful exploration!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
When preparing Bang Bang Salmon, consider any allergies your guests may have. The sauce contains mayonnaise and soy sauce, which could be an issue for those with egg or soy allergies. A great alternative is to use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy flavor, and you can choose a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari if gluten is a concern. Always communicate and ensure everyone at the table feels safe and included!

How can I refresh my salsa if it has been sitting?
If your avocado cucumber salsa has been waiting a bit too long and has started to brown, don’t worry! Add a fresh squeeze of lime juice and gently toss to rejuvenate it. This will not only freshen its flavor but also help to deter further browning. When made fresh, this salsa shines, so be sure to enjoy it right away when possible!