Easy Spicy Salmon Appetizer (Printable Format)

Crispy salmon bites tossed in a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce. Quick to make and perfect for appetizers or as a protein-rich meal.

# What You'll Gather:

→ Salmon & Seasonings

01 - 1 pound fresh salmon fillets, skin removed
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
04 - ½ teaspoon onion powder
05 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
06 - ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Bang Bang Sauce

08 - ¼ cup mayonnaise
09 - 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
10 - 1 teaspoon sriracha
11 - 1 teaspoon honey
12 - ½ teaspoon fresh lime juice

# Step-by-Step Instructions:

01 - Dice your salmon into bite-sized 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, gently toss the salmon pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt and pepper until evenly coated.
02 - Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned salmon cubes and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust.
03 - Preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the seasoned salmon pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don't touch. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.
04 - Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Place seasoned salmon in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through cooking time.
05 - While the salmon cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth and well combined.
06 - Gently toss the cooked salmon bites in the bang bang sauce or drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro if desired.

# Important Tips:

01 - Choose any cooking method that works best for you - stovetop, oven, and air fryer all work wonderfully.
02 - Adjust the spice level by adding more or less sriracha and cayenne pepper.
03 - The bang bang sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

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