Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

These Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are a perfect mix of flavor and texture, making them an ideal choice for any dinner occasion. The air-fried salmon bites, coated in a sweet and slightly spicy sauce, pair beautifully with the nutritious blend of sticky rice and optional cauliflower rice. Loaded with colorful veggies, these bowls are not only delicious but also visually appealing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: A delightful combination of sweet chili sauce and spices elevates the taste.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your bowls with different veggies or rice options based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from salmon and fiber from vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and filling.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Having the essential equipment on hand will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Cooking spray
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool cooks salmon to perfection while keeping it crispy without excess oil.
• Mixing bowls: Great for combining ingredients like the special sauce or seasoning the salmon evenly.

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 Base

• 2 cups cooked sticky rice or white rice (see notes)
• 1½ cups steamed cauliflower rice (see notes)

For the Veggies

• 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 (for serving)

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce. Stir until well mixed. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Season the Salmon

In another bowl, toss the salmon pieces with paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

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

Step 4: Cook the Rice

While the salmon cooks, prepare your sticky rice according to package instructions if not already done. If using cauliflower rice, steam it in a microwave-safe dish for about 5 minutes until tender.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls

In serving bowls, start with a base of sticky rice or cauliflower rice. Top each bowl with cooked salmon bites, sliced purple cabbage, shredded carrot, cucumber slices, edamame, and avocado slices.

Step 6: Add Sauce & Garnish

Drizzle each bowl with yum yum sauce and sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Finish off with fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls!

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

These Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are delightful and versatile, making them perfect for any meal. You can easily customize your bowls to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Customize with Fresh Veggies

• Add Crunchy Toppings: Top your bowls with sliced radishes or chopped bell peppers for added crunch.
• Incorporate Greens: Fresh spinach or arugula can enhance the nutritional profile while adding a fresh taste.

Pair with Extra Sauces

• Serve Additional Sauces: Offer extra yum yum sauce or a drizzle of sriracha on the side for those who enjoy a kick.
• Create a Dipping Option: Present small bowls of the sweet chili sauce for dipping salmon bites.

Enjoy with a Side Salad

• Fresh Garden Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well to balance flavors and textures.
• Asian Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw complements the richness of the salmon and adds a refreshing touch.

How to Perfect Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

Creating the ultimate Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls comes down to a few key techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Quality Salmon: Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the best flavor and texture in your bowls.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of paprika and sweet chili sauce according to your spice preference.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure both sticky rice and cauliflower rice are cooked perfectly; this enhances overall dish quality.
• Air-Fry for Crispiness: Use an air fryer to get a crispy exterior on the salmon while keeping it tender inside.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip garnishing with cilantro and sesame seeds; they add freshness and visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

To elevate your meal experience, consider pairing these delicious rice bowls with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that offers a nice contrast in texture. Steam lightly to retain crunch.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet balance that contrasts well with the savory flavors of the salmon.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing can add protein and fresh flavors that complement the bowl.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can be comforting and brings additional umami flavor to your meal.
5. Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar create a refreshing palate cleanser alongside your bowl.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and is easy to prepare on the grill or stovetop.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When creating your Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Overcooking the salmon: Cooking the salmon for too long can lead to dry bites. Keep an eye on it and aim for just cooked through.
• Ignoring the sauce balance: The sauce should be sweet and slightly spicy. Adjust the sweet chili sauce and mayonnaise ratio to suit your taste.
• Skipping the veggies: While it might be tempting to omit veggies, they add texture and nutrition. Include a variety of colorful vegetables for the best flavor.
• Not preparing rice correctly: Using too much water while cooking rice can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions for perfect sticky rice.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Toppings like cilantro and sesame seeds enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip them!
• Neglecting storage tips: Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness. Store leftovers correctly to enjoy them later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the meal cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label containers with dates.

Reheating Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls:

What kind of salmon should I use for Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls?

You can use any skinless salmon fillet, such as Atlantic or sockeye salmon, based on your preference.

Can I substitute other proteins in this recipe?

Yes! You can easily swap out salmon for chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce if using any.

Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can chop vegetables and marinate the salmon a day ahead for convenience.

What can I serve with Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls?

These bowls pair well with additional sides like miso soup or a simple green salad.

Are there customization options for this recipe?

Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or sauces to create your unique bowl experience.

Final Thoughts

Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls are not only flavorful but also versatile. They are perfect for dinner any night of the week and allow plenty of room for customization. Whether you want extra spice or different veggies, you can easily adjust this recipe to fit your tastes. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy deliciously spicy and sweet Bang Bang Salmon Rice Bowls packed with flavor! Try this easy recipe today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 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)
• 2 cups cooked sticky rice or white rice
• 1½ cups steamed cauliflower rice
• 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)
• 1/2 cup yum yum sauce hibachi
• 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the sauce by mixing mayonnaise and sweet chili sauce in a bowl. Set aside.
2. Season salmon pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray the basket with oil. Cook seasoned salmon for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
4. While cooking salmon, prepare sticky rice according to instructions and steam cauliflower rice until tender if using.
5. Assemble bowls with rice as a base topped with salmon bites and assorted veggies.
6. Drizzle with yum yum sauce and garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 590mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 80mg