Name: Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayo (or light mayo); 1/3 cup sweet chili sauce; 2 tablespoons Sriracha (or more if desired); 3/4 pound salmon, cut into 2 fillets; Kosher salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1 (14 oz) bag frozen cauliflower rice; Sliced green onions; Lemon wedge

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 9 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet surprisingly light and healthy, the Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe is here to delight your taste buds and satisfy your soul. This recipe combines tender, perfectly cooked salmon glazed with a creamy, spicy-sweet Bang Bang sauce alongside fluffy cauliflower rice, making it a wonderful meal that feels indulgent without weighing you down. It’s an easy-to-make favorite that impresses your family or guests with every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds three distinct layers of creamy textures and colors, arranged side by side. On the left, a shiny, semi-transparent red layer with small visible fruit pieces looks like thick jam. In the middle and slightly overlapping the jam is a smooth, pure white mound of thick cream with soft folds and subtle gloss. On the bottom right, a darker, glossy red layer with a denser texture appears like concentrated fruit puree. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with light reflections, and the image is focused closely to show texture details. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting that iconic Bang Bang flavor balanced with wholesome cauliflower rice. From the spicy kick of Sriracha to the fresh crispness of the cauliflower, every component is essential to the dish’s vibrant personality.

1/2 cup mayo (or light mayo): Serves as the creamy base for the Bang Bang sauce, adding richness without overpowering the salmon.
1/3 cup sweet chili sauce: Brings a perfect balance of sweetness and tang that complements the heat.
2 tablespoons Sriracha: Adds that signature spicy kick—feel free to adjust depending on your heat preference.
3/4 pound salmon (cut into 2 fillets): The star of the dish, providing flaky texture and heart-healthy omega-3s.
Kosher salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the natural flavors of the salmon.
1 (14 oz) bag frozen cauliflower rice: A low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional rice, offering lightness and texture.
Optional: sliced green onions, lemon wedge: These add fresh brightness and a hint of citrus that complements the spicy sauce beautifully.

How to Make Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce

Begin by whisking together the mayo, sweet chili sauce, and Sriracha in a small bowl to create that luscious, creamy Bang Bang sauce. This combination is where the magic happens—spicy, sweet, and velvety all at once, setting the perfect stage for the salmon.

Step 2: Coat and Season the Salmon

Brush some of your homemade Bang Bang sauce onto the salmon fillets, ensuring every inch is covered in that bold flavor. Then sprinkle kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper over the top to enhance the natural savory notes of the fish.

Step 3: Cook the Salmon

You have options here—one of the things that make this Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe so versatile! Place the salmon skin side down on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 13 to 15 minutes, or pop the fillets into your air fryer at the same temperature and time. Either method results in tender, flaky salmon with a beautifully caramelized glaze.

Step 4: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice

Cook the frozen cauliflower rice according to the package instructions, which usually involves a quick sauté or microwave step to achieve the perfect fluffiness. This keeps the meal light yet satisfying and acts as an excellent base for the salmon.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Divide the cauliflower rice evenly between two plates. Place a fillet of the Bang Bang glazed salmon over the rice, then drizzle additional Bang Bang sauce on top. For an added fresh touch and slight tang, garnish with sliced green onions and a lemon wedge if you like. This final step elevates the dish’s presentation and layers of flavor.

How to Serve Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe

The image shows a meal with three main parts in a clear glass container. The bottom layer is a fluffy white rice spread evenly. On top and centered, there is a golden-brown grilled salmon fillet with a slightly crispy texture and small black pepper bits on its surface. To the left side of the fish, there is a bright yellow lemon wedge resting on the rice. In the upper right corner, there is a small clear plastic cup filled with light orange sauce. The whole dish is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like thinly sliced green onions brings a pleasant sharpness and crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce and tender salmon. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright, citrusy burst that cuts through the richness, making each bite feel fresh and lively.

Side Dishes

While this recipe stands strong on its own, if you want to round out the meal, consider simple sides like a crisp cucumber salad or steamed asparagus. Both are light enough not to overshadow the star but add complementary texture and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist when serving the Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe, try plating it in a shallow bowl to create a cozy bowl meal or serve on a bed of mixed greens for a salad-inspired approach. You can even add avocado slices for creaminess and additional color, turning this dish into a beautiful feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe keeps well for up to two days, making it a perfect option for a quick lunch the next day.

Freezing

Freezing cooked salmon can be a bit tricky as it might dry out, so it’s best to freeze only the cooked cauliflower rice separately if needed. When freezing, use airtight containers or freezer bags to maintain freshness and avoid freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat the salmon gently in the oven at a low temperature or in the air fryer for a few minutes to keep it moist and flaky. Warm the cauliflower rice on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of frozen cauliflower rice?

Absolutely! Fresh cauliflower can be pulsed in a food processor to create rice-sized pieces. Just be sure to cook it briefly to keep that nice, tender texture without becoming mushy.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

While the original Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe features salmon and mayo, you can easily swap the salmon for tofu or tempeh, and use vegan mayo to create a plant-based version that still packs plenty of flavor.

How spicy is the Bang Bang sauce?

The sauce has a balanced heat level thanks to the combination of sweet chili sauce and Sriracha. If you like it hotter, simply add more Sriracha or a dash of cayenne. For a milder touch, reduce the amount of spicy ingredients.

Can I prep the Bang Bang sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep or quick assembly when you’re short on time.

What’s the best way to ensure the salmon is cooked perfectly?

Keep an eye on the cooking time and temperature. Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork but still feels moist. Using a thermometer, the internal temperature should reach about 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet effortlessly healthy and satisfying, you really can’t go wrong with the Bang Bang Salmon with Cauliflower Rice Recipe. It’s quick enough for a weeknight and fancy enough to serve when friends drop by. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!