Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

These Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are a delightful explosion of flavor and texture, perfect for any occasion. This dish features air-fried salmon bites tossed in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, served with a mix of sticky rice and cauliflower rice, packed with fresh veggies. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these bowls are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of sweet chili sauce and seasoning elevates the salmon to new heights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome grains, this dish is nourishing and satisfying.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: These bowls store well in the fridge, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Cooking pot (for rice)
• Steamer basket (for cauliflower rice)
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Ideal for achieving crispy salmon bites without excess oil, making your dish healthier.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Cooking pot: Necessary for cooking your sticky rice to perfection.

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Ingredients

For the Sauce

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (I use light mayonnaise)
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce

For the Salmon

• 1½ pounds skinless salmon (cut into bite-size pieces)
• 1 teaspoon (heaping) paprika
• 1 teaspoon (heaping) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Avocado oil spray (or extra light olive oil spray)

For the Rice and Veggies

• 2 cups cooked sticky rice or white rice (see notes)
• 1½ cups steamed cauliflower rice (see notes)
• 1 cup sliced purple cabbage
• 1/2 cup shredded carrot
• 2 persian cucumbers (sliced)
• 1 cup shelled edamame
• 2 small avocados (sliced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped or leaves left whole)

For Serving

• 1/2 cup yum yum sauce hibachi
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing together the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce in a bowl until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In another bowl, toss the salmon pieces with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Ensure each piece is well-coated.

Step 3: Air-Fry the Salmon

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket with avocado oil spray. Place the seasoned salmon pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Cook the Rice & Cauliflower Rice

While the salmon is cooking, prepare your sticky rice according to package instructions. For cauliflower rice, steam it lightly until tender.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

In each serving bowl, layer sticky rice or white rice at the bottom. Add steamed cauliflower rice on top if desired. Place a generous serving of air-fried salmon over the rice.

Step 6: Add Fresh Veggies

Top each bowl with sliced purple cabbage, shredded carrot, cucumber slices, shelled edamame, and avocado slices.

Step 7: Drizzle Sauce & Garnish

Drizzle with yum yum sauce hibachi and sprinkle black sesame seeds on top. Finish with chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your vibrant Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls! They are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients that will leave you feeling satisfied.

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

These Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. You can customize each bowl to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a versatile meal option for any occasion.

Individual Bowls

• Each bowl can be customized with your preferred amount of rice, veggies, and salmon bites for a personalized touch.

Family Style

• Serve the ingredients in separate dishes, allowing everyone to build their own bowls. This makes for an interactive dining experience.

With Extra Sauce

• Drizzle additional yum yum sauce over the assembled bowls for those who enjoy extra flavor and creaminess.

Garnishes

• Top the bowls with chopped cilantro or black sesame seeds for added freshness and crunch.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

To achieve the best results with your Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dish and ensure delicious flavors in every bite.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and salmon will enhance the overall taste and texture of your bowls.
• Pre-cook rice properly: Ensure your sticky rice or white rice is cooked just right—fluffy yet slightly sticky—for optimal serving.
• Adjust spice level: Modify the amount of sweet chili sauce based on your spice preference. More sauce equals more heat!
• Air-fry carefully: Make sure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket so that the salmon cooks evenly and gets crispy.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add or substitute toppings like sliced radishes or green onions for added flavor.
• Chill before serving: Letting the components cool slightly before assembling helps to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

Pairing side dishes with your Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls can elevate the entire meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish well.

1. Asian Slaw
   A crunchy mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers tossed in a tangy dressing adds freshness to your meal.

2. Miso Soup
   A light miso soup serves as a comforting starter that balances out the richness of the salmon bowls.

3. Grilled Asparagus
   Tender grilled asparagus drizzled with olive oil provides a smoky flavor that pairs well with salmon.

4. Edamame Beans
   Lightly salted edamame offers a protein-packed snack that complements your main dish beautifully.

5. Seaweed Salad
   This refreshing salad has a unique umami flavor that adds an interesting contrast to the rich flavors of the bowls.

6. Cucumber Salad
   A simple cucumber salad with vinegar dressing adds crunch and acidity, brightening up the overall meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not Marinating the Salmon: Failing to marinate the salmon can lead to bland bites. Allow the salmon to soak in the seasoning for at least 15 minutes before cooking for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Salmon: Cooking the salmon for too long can result in dry fish. Use a meat thermometer or check for a flaky texture to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
• Skipping the Sauce: Neglecting to add sauce can make your bowls taste flat. Ensure you coat your salmon bites generously in the Bang Bang sauce for that signature flavor.
• Ignoring Vegetable Prep: Not properly preparing your veggies can affect their texture and taste. Slice and steam vegetables uniformly for even cooking and presentation.
• Using Cold Rice: Serving cold rice can detract from your dish’s warmth and flavor. Make sure your rice is freshly cooked or reheated properly before assembling your bowls.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

• You can freeze the components separately (salmon, rice, and veggies) for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bowls on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place servings in a microwave-safe container. Cover lightly and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add ingredients and stir until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls.

Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just ensure it’s completely thawed before marinating and cooking.

What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce?

You can create a substitute by mixing equal parts honey and sriracha or using a sweet chili paste.

Are there alternatives to cauliflower rice?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use regular rice or quinoa as a healthier alternative.

How spicy is Bang Bang sauce?

Bang Bang sauce has a mild to moderate spice level due to the sweet chili sauce. Adjust it by adding more or less according to your preference.

Can I customize my veggies?

Definitely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch.

Final Thoughts

These Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for a healthy dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor!