🐟 Bang Bang Salmon (Ready in 15 Minutes)

Sweet, Spicy & Creamy with a Mediterranean Twist

📖 Description

This Bang Bang Salmon is bold, creamy, slightly spicy, and perfectly balanced — ready in just 15 minutes. Inspired by the popular sweet-chili style sauce, this Mediterranean version uses Greek yogurt instead of heavy mayo and olive oil instead of processed fats.

The result? A lighter, protein-rich dish with heart-healthy fats and vibrant flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or an impressive quick dinner.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Salmon:

4 salmon fillets (about 5–6 oz each)
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Salt and black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Bang Bang Sauce (Lightened Up):

½ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, grated

Optional garnish:

Chopped parsley or cilantro
Sesame seeds
Lime wedges

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Season the Salmon

Pat salmon dry. Brush with olive oil.
Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

2️⃣ Cook (Choose Method)

Pan-Seared (10–12 minutes total)

Heat skillet over medium-high.
Cook salmon skin-side down for 4–5 minutes.
Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until flaky.

Air Fryer (8–10 minutes)

Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Oven (12–15 minutes)

Bake at 400°F (200°C) until internal temp reaches 145°F (63°C).

3️⃣ Make the Sauce

Whisk Greek yogurt, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.

4️⃣ Finish

Drizzle sauce over warm salmon or brush on during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a lightly caramelized finish.

Garnish and serve immediately.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Over brown rice or quinoa
With roasted Mediterranean vegetables
On a fresh salad bowl
With cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

🌿 Mediterranean Benefits

✔ Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
✔ High-quality protein
✔ Probiotic benefits from Greek yogurt
✔ Heart-healthy olive oil
✔ Ready in 15 minutes

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I use mayonnaise instead of yogurt?

Yes, but yogurt keeps it lighter and adds protein.

Q2: Is this very spicy?

It has mild heat. Reduce or increase sriracha to adjust spice level.

Q3: Can I grill the salmon?

Absolutely! Grill 4–5 minutes per side over medium heat.

Q4: Can I meal prep this?

Yes — store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I make it dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt or switch to a light mayo-based sauce.