Welcome to a flavorful journey! Today, we’re diving into the mouthwatering world of Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter. This recipe brings together the exotic flavors of Thai-inspired coconut curry with the delicate taste of salmon, all topped off with a savory garlic butter drizzle. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special weekend meal, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
The combination of creamy coconut milk and spicy curry creates a robust sauce that elevates the salmon to culinary heights you’ve never experienced before. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or just looking to try something new, this Coconut Curry Salmon is a dish that combines health, flavor, and an irresistible presentation. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare, making it a winner for all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Curry Salmon
- Exotic Flavors: The marriage of coconut and curry is a staple in many Asian cuisines, delivering a rich and aromatic flavor in every bite.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy Choice: Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Diverse Serving Options: Serve it with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad to create a meal that suits any palate.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before starting this tantalizing coconut curry salmon recipe, it’s crucial to gather your ingredients and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Begin by preparing your workspace; a clean kitchen counter and a well-organized cooking area will make the process easier and more enjoyable. Make sure to have the following tools on hand:
- Large baking sheet for broiling the salmon.
- Large skillet for preparing the curry sauce.
- Cutting board and knife for chopping garlic, ginger, and broccoli.
- Measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
- Spatula or wooden spoon for stirring.
Ingredients
- 4 (4-6 ounce) salmon filets
- 2–3 tablespoons spicy curry powder (homemade option in the notes)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of chili flakes for extra heat
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey for subtle sweetness
- 6 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
- 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste (authentic flavor boost)
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli for added texture
- 2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk (for creamy richness)
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce (adjust as per taste)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or extra soy sauce if preferred)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your broiler, which will provide a quick and high-heat method perfect for cooking the salmon. Place your salmon filets on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the filets, and use your fingers or a brush to rub it in evenly. Next, sprinkle the spicy curry powder generously over the top, add salt and pepper to taste, and finish with a drizzle of honey, which will lend a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors. Place the salmon under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close watch until the tops are perfectly crisped. This method ensures a beautiful caramelization while keeping the inside tender.
Step 2: Create the Curry Base
While your salmon broils, prepare the curry sauce by heating up a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salted butter and allow it to melt before incorporating the Thai red curry paste and fresh grated ginger. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a fragrant aroma. Next, toss in the chopped broccoli and stir in the rich coconut milk, tamari or soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly combined and simmering gently; this combination creates a robust, creamy sauce that will pair beautifully with the salmon.
Step 3: Combine Salmon with Curry Sauce
Once the salmon has broiled to perfection, carefully slide the filets into your skillet, nestling them gently in the curry sauce. Allow the salmon to simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the salmon to absorb all the delicious flavors while ensuring it remains moist and flaky. Use a spoon to baste the salmon with the sauce to keep it juicy and enhance the flavor profile.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Drizzle
To elevate your dish even further, let’s create a delicious garlic butter drizzle. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add the chopped garlic along with a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick. Cook this mixture until the garlic turns crisp and the butter lightly browns, which will create a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the salmon and curry.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Serve the salmon with a generous ladle of the coconut curry sauce over hot bowls of rice or your favorite grain. Drizzle the aromatic garlic butter over the top for that extra depth of flavor. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This dish not only looks vibrant but will also fill your home with an intoxicating aroma.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute the salmon with shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cumin or paprika to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Cooking Notes
- Always select fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and overall dining experience.
- Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes and curry paste according to your preference.
- The garlic butter drizzle can be prepared while the salmon is cooking, making multitasking easier.
- If you’re short on time, pre-chopped vegetables can be a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
- This dish pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa, which can soak up the flavorful curry sauce.
- For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
Tips
- To keep the salmon moist, be cautious not to overcook it. The broiling process should leave the inside tender.
- Make sure to taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.
- Let the garlic butter cool for a minute before drizzling, as it can cause burns if too hot.
- For an even creamier sauce, you can add more coconut milk if desired.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 620 per serving
- Protein: 35 grams
- Sodium: 850 milligrams
FAQs
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results. Be aware that cooking time may slightly vary.
What should I serve with this Coconut Curry Salmon?
Pairing it with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad works beautifully, allowing the curry sauce to shine.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the curry base ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the salmon and heat it up before serving.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of curry paste and chili flakes used.
Conclusion
This Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter is not just a meal; it’s an experience bursting with flavor and warmth. The unique blend of spicy and savory notes makes it an irresistible choice for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Try this recipe and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Don’t forget to share your variations, comments, or any questions you might have! This dish is sure to impress, so enjoy every bite and keep exploring your culinary creativity!
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Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter is a delightful blend of flavors that is easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 (4-6 ounce) salmon filets
- 2–3 tablespoons spicy curry powder (homemade option in the notes)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of chili flakes for extra heat
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey for subtle sweetness
- 6 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
- 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste (authentic flavor boost)
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli for added texture
- 2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk (for creamy richness)
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce (adjust as per taste)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or extra soy sauce if preferred)
- 3–4 cloves garlic, chopped
Instructions
- Begin your culinary adventure by preheating your broiler, which will provide a quick and high-heat method perfect for cooking the salmon. Place your salmon filets on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the filets, and use your fingers or a brush to rub it in evenly. Next, sprinkle the spicy curry powder generously over the top, add salt and pepper to taste, and finish with a drizzle of honey, which will lend a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors. Place the salmon under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close watch until the tops are perfectly crisped. This method ensures a beautiful caramelization while keeping the inside tender.
- While your salmon broils, prepare the curry sauce by heating up a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of salted butter and allow it to melt before incorporating the Thai red curry paste and fresh grated ginger. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the ingredients to mingle and develop a fragrant aroma. Next, toss in the chopped broccoli and stir in the rich coconut milk, tamari or soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly combined and simmering gently; this combination creates a robust, creamy sauce that will pair beautifully with the salmon.
- Once the salmon has broiled to perfection, carefully slide the filets into your skillet, nestling them gently in the curry sauce. Allow the salmon to simmer in the sauce for an additional 3-5 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the salmon to absorb all the delicious flavors while ensuring it remains moist and flaky. Use a spoon to baste the salmon with the sauce to keep it juicy and enhance the flavor profile.
- To elevate your dish even further, let’s create a delicious garlic butter drizzle. In a separate pan, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat and add the chopped garlic along with a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick. Cook this mixture until the garlic turns crisp and the butter lightly browns, which will create a nutty flavor that beautifully complements the salmon and curry.
- Now it’s time to bring everything together! Serve the salmon with a generous ladle of the coconut curry sauce over hot bowls of rice or your favorite grain. Drizzle the aromatic garlic butter over the top for that extra depth of flavor. If desired, garnish with fresh basil or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. This dish not only looks vibrant but will also fill your home with an intoxicating aroma.
Notes
Always select fresh, wild-caught salmon for the best flavor and overall dining experience. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili flakes and curry paste according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 35 g