Bang Bang Cajun Salmon Delights

These Bang Bang Cajun Salmon Delights are bold, spicy, and irresistibly creamy. I take tender, flaky salmon fillets, season them with smoky Cajun spices, then drizzle them with a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce that pulls the whole dish together. It’s a flavor-packed meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly simple to make right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe hits all the right notes—spicy, creamy, savory, and just a little sweet. The Cajun seasoning gives the salmon a beautiful crust, and the bang bang sauce adds that signature kick. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but special enough to serve to guests. Whether I pair it with rice, salad, or roasted veggies, it’s a meal I always look forward to.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salmon:

• salmon fillets (skin-on or skinless)

• Cajun seasoning

• olive oil or melted butter

• salt and black pepper (as needed)

For the bang bang sauce:

• mayonnaise (or vegan mayo)

• sweet chili sauce

• sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)

• lime juice or rice vinegar (optional for tang)

Optional toppings and sides:

• chopped green onions

• sesame seeds

• lime wedges

• jasmine rice, quinoa, or mixed greens

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F or heat a skillet over medium-high heat if I’m pan-searing.

2. I pat the salmon dry with paper towels, then brush with oil or melted butter and rub it generously with Cajun seasoning.

3. If baking, I place the salmon on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 12–15 minutes, depending on thickness. If pan-searing, I cook skin-side down first for 4–5 minutes, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until it flakes easily.

4. While the salmon cooks, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice until smooth and creamy.

5. Once the salmon is done, I drizzle the bang bang sauce generously over each piece and top with green onions and sesame seeds if I’m using them.

6. I serve immediately with rice or greens, and an extra squeeze of lime.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2–4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: under 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the salmon for shrimp or chicken if I want to change it up. For a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo in the sauce. If I’m serving this over a salad, I thin the sauce slightly to use it as a spicy dressing. I’ve also tried it in tacos with slaw and it’s amazing.

storage/reheating

Leftover salmon keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. I store it separately from the sauce to keep the flavors fresh. When reheating, I warm the salmon gently in a skillet or low oven—just until heated through. I avoid microwaving too long to prevent it from drying out. I drizzle the sauce fresh after reheating for the best flavor.

FAQs

Can I grill the salmon instead of baking or searing?

Yes, I grill it over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side. It adds a delicious smoky flavor that works great with the Cajun spices.

How spicy is the bang bang sauce?

I adjust the heat by adding more or less sriracha. It has a gentle kick, but nothing overwhelming unless I really pile on the hot sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. I keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It actually tastes better the next day once the flavors meld.

What’s the best Cajun seasoning to use?

I use a store-bought blend or mix my own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano. I go easy on the salt if the seasoning is already salty.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use gluten-free Cajun seasoning and check the labels on the chili sauce and mayo, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

These Bang Bang Cajun Salmon Delights are bold, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The spicy seasoning, creamy sauce, and tender fish come together in a way that makes this dish feel indulgent without the fuss. Whether I serve it over rice, in tacos, or with a side of veggies, it’s a go-to recipe that delivers every single time.

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