Salmon Coconut Curry

Name: Salmon Coconut Curry
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh salmon; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk; 2 heaping tablespoons Thai red curry paste; 1/2 cup matchstick-cut carrots; 1 heaping cup chopped broccolini; Fresh basil and cilantro for garnish

Published: January 17, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of coconut milk and Thai red curry paste creates a rich, satisfying sauce that enhances the salmon’s natural flavors.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, making this dish adaptable to your preferences.
Healthy Option: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids from salmon and plenty of veggies, this curry is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Impressive Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes for an eye-catching dish that’s sure to impress guests.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this Salmon Coconut Curry, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Serving plates

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the salmon and helps develop flavor in the sauce.
Knife: A sharp knife allows for easy chopping of vegetables, saving you time during prep.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without slipping.

Ingredients

This easy Thai-inspired salmon coconut curry has tender pan-seared salmon in a creamy red curry coconut milk sauce. It’s super flavorful and comforting!

For the Salmon

1 pound fresh salmon
Salt & pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Curry Sauce

1/2 medium onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 heaping tablespoons Thai red curry paste
1/2 teaspoon fish sauce (optional but recommended, see note)
1 (13.5 ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Vegetables

1/2 cup matchstick cut carrots
1 heaping cup chopped broccolini

For Garnish

1 teaspoon lime juice
2 tablespoons torn/chopped fresh basil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

How to Make Salmon Coconut Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Cut the salmon into 4 equal pieces. Pat both sides dry with paper towel and season with salt & pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Salmon

Add the oil and butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Let the pan heat up for a few minutes.
Cook the salmon, skin-side down, for 5 minutes. Flip it and cook for another 2-3 minutes until almost done. If sticking occurs, let it cook longer to release naturally.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Remove the salmon from the skillet and transfer it to a plate.
Spoon some oil out of the skillet, leaving about a tablespoon.
Add onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until lightly browned.
Stir in garlic and curry paste; cook for 1 minute.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add fish sauce (if using), coconut milk, brown sugar, carrots, and broccolini into the skillet.
Gently bubble for about 5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Finish Up

Stir in lime juice, then add salmon back into the pan to warm through for a couple of minutes.
Season with additional salt & pepper if needed. Sprinkle with basil and cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Salmon Coconut Curry with rice or noodles for a complete meal!

How to Serve Salmon Coconut Curry

Serving Salmon Coconut Curry is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. This dish pairs well with various accompaniments that can elevate your meal.

With Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice complements the creamy coconut sauce perfectly, soaking up the flavors of the curry.

With Steamed Vegetables

A side of steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans adds freshness and crunch to your plate.

With Naan Bread

Soft naan bread is ideal for scooping up the salmon and sauce, making each bite deliciously satisfying.

With Salad

A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich curry.

With Quinoa

Quinoa offers a nutty flavor and a healthy grain option, balancing out the richness of the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Salmon Coconut Curry

Perfecting your Salmon Coconut Curry can elevate it from good to exceptional. Here are some tips to ensure you nail this recipe every time.

Choose fresh salmon: Fresh salmon has better flavor and texture compared to frozen. Look for bright, firm fillets.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra red curry paste or some sliced chili peppers during cooking.
Use full-fat coconut milk: This creates a creamier sauce that enhances the overall richness of the curry.
Cook veggies al dente: For added texture, make sure your vegetables remain slightly crisp for that perfect bite.
Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like basil and cilantro add brightness; don’t skimp on these!

Best Side Dishes for Salmon Coconut Curry

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your Salmon Coconut Curry with these tasty side dishes.

Coconut Rice
A fragrant option made by cooking rice in coconut milk for added sweetness and creaminess.
Grilled Asparagus
Lightly seasoned with olive oil and lemon, grilled asparagus adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with curry.
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad with lime juice brings brightness and balances the richness of the curry.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
These offer a sweet contrast to the savory curry, providing another layer of flavor.
Chickpea Salad
A protein-packed chickpea salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds a hearty element alongside your main dish.
Cauliflower Rice
This low-carb alternative absorbs flavors well while providing a nutritious base for your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying a new recipe. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making salmon coconut curry.

Overcooking the Salmon: Salmon cooks quickly. Overcooking can lead to dry fish. Aim for a tender, flaky texture by cooking just until the salmon is opaque.
Skipping the Seasoning: Fish can be bland without enough seasoning. Always season both the fish and the sauce well to enhance flavors.
Using Low-Quality Coconut Milk: Not all coconut milk is created equal. Choose full-fat coconut milk for a creamy and rich sauce that elevates your curry.
Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Everyone’s taste varies. Taste your curry as you go and adjust the spice levels according to your preference for heat.
Ignoring Veggie Cooking Times: Different vegetables have different cooking times. Cut them uniformly and add them in stages to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and depth to dishes. Don’t skip adding basil and cilantro at the end for maximum flavor impact.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store salmon coconut curry in an airtight container.
It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salmon Coconut Curry

Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
The dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salmon Coconut Curry

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring halfway through until hot, usually about 2-3 minutes depending on portion size.
Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a saucepan, stirring gently until heated throughout, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making salmon coconut curry.

Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen salmon but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

What can I substitute for Thai red curry paste?

You can use other curry pastes or powders, but note that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How do I make it spicier?

Add more Thai red curry paste or include fresh chopped chilies based on your heat preference.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on what you have.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This salmon coconut curry stores well and is perfect for meal prep since it reheats nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Salmon Coconut Curry is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices based on your taste. It’s ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or serving guests. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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