Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
Highlighted under: Taste the World Recipes
This Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This dish combines the rich flavors of salmon with a spicy and creamy sauce, complemented by a refreshing cucumber salad. It's a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of spicy and creamy flavors
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy evenings
- Healthy and nutritious, packed with omega-3 fatty acids
A Flavorful Combination
Bang Bang Salmon is an explosion of flavors, combining the richness of salmon with a spicy, creamy sauce that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. The creamy mayonnaise provides a luscious base while the Sriracha adds the perfect kick of heat. This dish is not only delicious but visually appealing, making it great for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Pairing the salmon with a refreshing cucumber salad brings a delightful contrast to the meal. The crispness of the cucumbers and the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes balance the spiciness of the Bang Bang sauce beautifully. This combination creates a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and invigorating.
Health Benefits of Salmon
Salmon is renowned for its health benefits, particularly its high omega-3 fatty acid content. Omega-3s are essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body. Including salmon in your diet can help improve cholesterol levels and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Additionally, salmon is rich in protein, which is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and promoting overall health. It's an excellent choice for those looking to eat clean or follow a balanced diet. By preparing it in a flavorful way, like with Bang Bang sauce, you can enjoy all these benefits without sacrificing taste.
Customization and Variations
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the level of spiciness in the Bang Bang sauce by adding more or less Sriracha to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider substituting Sriracha with a less spicy hot sauce or reducing the quantity used.
The cucumber salad can also be customized. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or avocado for extra nutrition and flavor. If you're looking for a more filling option, consider adding quinoa or chickpeas to the salad, making it a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match the ingredients to suit your taste!
Instructions
Prepare the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Make the Bang Bang Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until well combined. Set aside.
Bake the Salmon
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
Prepare the Cucumber Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with rice vinegar and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Serve
Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Serve alongside the cucumber salad for a refreshing meal.
Enjoy your delicious Bang Bang Salmon!
Serving Suggestions
This Bang Bang Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside steamed rice or quinoa, which will soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious plate.
For a lighter option, consider serving the salmon with a simple green salad. A mix of leafy greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette will complement the flavors of the dish without overwhelming it. Don’t forget to offer additional Bang Bang sauce on the side for those who love an extra kick!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, you can easily store them for later enjoyment. Allow the salmon to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, being careful not to overcook the fish.
The cucumber salad can be stored separately, as it is best enjoyed fresh. If you expect to have leftovers, consider tossing the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an added burst of flavor when serving the leftovers.
Pairing Drinks
To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing this Bang Bang Salmon with a refreshing beverage. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully. The acidity of the wine pairs well with the richness of the salmon and the spiciness of the sauce.
For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lime or a light herbal iced tea can provide a refreshing contrast to the meal. These drinks will cleanse your palate and keep the focus on the delicious flavors of the Bang Bang Salmon and cucumber salad.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
→ What can I substitute for Sriracha?
You can use any hot sauce you prefer, or adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free. Just ensure the mayonnaise is gluten-free as well.
→ How can I make this dish more filling?
You can serve it over a bed of rice or quinoa for added substance.
Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad
This Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Taste the World Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Salmon
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Cucumber Salad
- 2 cups cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the salmon fillets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Sriracha, honey, and lime juice until well combined. Set aside.
Bake the salmon in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through and flaky.
In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with rice vinegar and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
Once the salmon is cooked, drizzle the Bang Bang sauce over the top. Serve alongside the cucumber salad for a refreshing meal.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g