Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is a delightful dish that combines the bold flavors of spicy-sweet bang bang sauce with succulent salmon. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, offering a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The cool cucumber salad adds a refreshing contrast, making it an ideal choice for warm evenings or casual gatherings.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of the spicy bang bang sauce and tender salmon creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with omega-3s from salmon and fresh veggies, this meal is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve as a main course or pair it with rice for a full meal. It’s great for meal prep too!
• Fresh and Crisp Salad: The cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the rich salmon.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks the salmon evenly while keeping it moist, giving you perfectly flaky fish every time.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients like the bang bang sauce without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing sauces.
• Cutting board and knife: Necessary for safely preparing your fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Salmon

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Bang Bang Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

For the Cucumber Salad

• 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

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How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of each fillet with olive oil. Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.

Step 2: Air Fry the Salmon

Place the seasoned salmon fillets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them for 10-12 minutes or until they flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Once done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Bang Bang Sauce

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice. Whisk until well mixed. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.

Step 4: Prepare the Cucumber Salad

In another medium bowl, mix together sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Serve

Plate each salmon fillet on individual plates or a serving platter. Drizzle generously with bang bang sauce. Serve alongside the refreshing cucumber salad for a delightful meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

Serving Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion.

On a Bed of Rice

• Steamed White Rice: A simple base that absorbs the bang bang sauce.
• Brown Rice: Adds a nutty flavor and a healthy touch to your meal.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Butter Lettuce Leaves: Create fresh wraps filled with salmon and cucumber salad for a light option.
• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp leaves that add a nice crunch when you wrap the salmon.

With Avocado Slices

• Fresh Avocado: Sliced or mashed avocado complements the spicy flavors of the salmon nicely.
• Guacamole: A creamy dip that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

As Part of a Grain Bowl

• Quinoa or Farro: These grains provide a hearty and nutritious base for your meal.
• Mixed Greens: Toss in some greens for added freshness and color.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon, consider these helpful tips.

• Boldly season your salmon: Use generous amounts of salt and spices to enhance flavor.
• Boldly adjust cooking time: Check for doneness early; different air fryers may vary in cooking time.
• Boldly experiment with sauces: Try mixing different levels of sriracha in your bang bang sauce for unique flavors.
• Boldly let it rest: Allow salmon to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking for better texture.
• Boldly slice vegetables uniformly: Ensure even slicing of cucumbers and tomatoes for consistent crunch.
• Boldly prepare ahead: Make the cucumber salad in advance to save time during serving.

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Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic make a comforting accompaniment.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted until golden brings vibrant flavor to the table.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the rich flavors of the salmon.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries provide a sweet contrast to the spicy bang bang sauce.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli is nutritious and complements the dish well.
6. Couscous Salad: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with herbs adds an extra layer of taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season the salmon can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you season well with salt, pepper, and spices for the best taste.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many salmon fillets in the air fryer at once can prevent even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking the salmon’s internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked fish. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (63°C).
• Not letting the salmon rest: Cutting into the salmon immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain moisture.
• Forgetting about the sauce: Skipping or under-preparing the bang bang sauce can diminish the dish’s flavor. Take time to whisk it together properly and adjust spice levels as desired.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

• Place salmon in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Store for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat salmon on a baking sheet for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad?

To make this dish, season the salmon, air fry until cooked, prepare bang bang sauce, and mix cucumber salad. Serve together!

Can I use frozen salmon fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon fillets! Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and cooking.

What can I substitute for sriracha in the bang bang sauce?

You can substitute sriracha with any hot sauce you prefer or reduce it entirely if you prefer less heat.

Can I add more vegetables to the cucumber salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, radishes, or any fresh veggies you enjoy for added crunch and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation time is about 22 minutes, making it an ideal quick meal option for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Bang Bang Salmon with Cucumber Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or other fresh veggies. Give it a try and enjoy a fantastic meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!