Pin The first time Bang Bang salmon appeared on my dinner table, my husband actually paused mid-bite and asked what kind of restaurant magic I'd pulled off on a Tuesday night. The sauce had this perfect kick that made him reach for water but kept going back for more. I've since learned it's the kind of dinner that makes people think you spent hours planning, when really it comes together in the time it takes to cook rice. Something about that creamy spicy glaze just transforms an ordinary fish fillet into restaurant-quality food.
Last summer, my sister visited and mentioned she'd finally started cooking fish at home after years of being intimidated. I made this for her, and she called me two weeks later to say it was now her go-to when she needed to feel like she had her life together. There's something about that combination of sweet heat and perfectly cooked salmon that just hits the spot, especially when you're tired and need dinner to feel special without the effort.
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each): Fresh fish matters here since the sauce is the star, and you want that perfect flaky texture underneath
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the salmon moist while giving it a gorgeous color
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Even distribution of flavor without burning like fresh garlic might at high heat
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that plays beautifully with the creamy sauce
- ½ tsp salt and black pepper each: Simple seasoning that lets the salmon shine through
- ½ cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes the sauce luxurious and cling perfectly to the fish
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce: This is the secret ingredient that gives Bang Bang sauce its signature flavor
- 1 tbsp sriracha: Adjust this up or down depending on your heat tolerance and mood
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup: Balances the heat and creates that addictive sweet-spicy balance
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice: Cuts through the richness and brightens everything
- Green onions, sesame seeds, and lime wedges: These aren't just pretty they add crunch and freshness that makes the dish feel complete
Instructions
- Get your salmon ready:
- Pat those fillets dry with paper towels, brush with olive oil, and season evenly on all sides with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
- Cook it your way:
- Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or pan-sear skin-side down for 4-5 minutes then flip until cooked through
- Whisk up the magic sauce:
- While salmon cooks, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar until smooth and taste to adjust the heat
- Bring it all together:
- Plate your cooked salmon and drizzle generously with that gorgeous Bang Bang sauce, then finish with your favorite garnishes
Pin This recipe became my emergency dinner hero during a particularly chaotic month when meal planning fell apart. My kids started calling it 'the pink sauce fish' and actually requesting it, which felt like a massive win in the dinner struggle department. Now it's the meal I make when I want to feel like I've got everything under control, even when I don't.
Make It Your Own
The beauty of Bang Bang sauce is how forgiving it is. Sometimes I swap Greek yogurt for half the mayo when I'm feeling virtuous, and nobody notices the difference. The heat level is completely up to you, and I've served this to everyone from spice-averse friends to heat-seeking family members by just adjusting the sriracha.
Sides That Shine
Simple is the name of the game here because the salmon carries so much flavor. Steamed jasmine rice soaks up that extra sauce like a dream, and a crisp cucumber salad with rice vinegar cuts through the richness. When I want something green, roasted broccoli or snap peas with garlic work perfectly without competing with the main event.
Meal Prep Magic
The sauce doubles beautifully and keeps for three days in the fridge, which means you're halfway to dinner tomorrow night. Cook fresh salmon when you're ready to eat, because reheated fish never quite hits the same note. The sauce also works wonderfully on shrimp, chicken, or even roasted cauliflower if you're mixing up your protein game.
- Whisk the sauce in a jar with a tight lid for easy storage
- Season the salmon in the morning and keep it refrigerated until dinner
- Double the sauce recipe and use it throughout the week for quick lunches
Pin There's something deeply satisfying about a dinner that looks impressive but comes together this easily. Hope this becomes one of those recipes you turn to again and again.
Recipe Questions
- → What does Bang Bang sauce taste like?
Bang Bang sauce delivers a creamy, sweet-spicy flavor profile. The mayonnaise provides rich smoothness while sweet chili sauce adds tangy sweetness. Sriracha brings the heat, and rice vinegar or lime juice adds brightness. The result is a balanced sauce that's both indulgent and zesty.
- → Can I make this less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce or omit the sriracha to dial down the heat. The sweet chili sauce provides mild warmth on its own. You can also increase the honey or maple syrup for additional sweetness that balances any remaining spice.
- → What cooking method works best?
All three methods yield excellent results. Baking at 400°F produces evenly cooked fillets with minimal effort. Grilling adds smoky char marks and extra flavor. Pan-searing creates crispy skin, especially if you start with skin-side down. Choose based on your equipment and preference.
- → How long does the sauce keep?
The Bang Bang sauce refrigerates well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually meld and improve overnight. Give it a good stir before serving, as separation may occur. Make a double batch to have it ready for quick meals throughout the week.
- → Can I substitute the mayonnaise?
Yes. Greek yogurt creates a lighter, tangier version with more protein. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream or vegan mayonnaise. The sauce's consistency and flavor balance will shift slightly, so adjust sweet chili and sriracha to taste.
- → What sides pair well with this salmon?
Fluffy jasmine rice or coconut rice soaks up the extra sauce beautifully. Quinoa adds nutty flavor and protein. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement the richness. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly dressed greens provide refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.