Description
This Salmon Curry in Coconut Milk is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender seared salmon with a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce. Infused with spices like curry powder, turmeric, and coriander, and brightened with lime juice and fresh spinach, this easy-to-make recipe comes together quickly for a satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
Ingredients
Scale
Salmon
- 1 ¼ lbs. salmon (cut into 5 filets)
- 2 Tbsp. oil (olive or avocado), divided
Vegetables & Aromatics
- ½ sweet onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- ½ tsp. ginger paste (or grated ginger)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp. salt (to taste)
- 1 ½ Tbsp. curry powder
- ¼ tsp. ground turmeric
- 1 tsp. coriander
- 1 Tbsp. coconut sugar (or brown sugar, optional)
- 1 tsp. chili garlic paste
Liquids & Add-ins
- 15 oz. can coconut milk (full fat)
- 1 lime (juice)
- 2 cups spinach (coarsely chopped)
Instructions
- Sear Salmon: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of oil and place the salmon filets in the pan. Sear the salmon for 1-2 minutes per side until it develops a golden crust. Once seared, remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Veggies: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet along with the thinly sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes or until they become tender and aromatic. Stir in the crushed garlic and ginger paste and sauté for another minute to release their flavors.
- Make the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the salt, curry powder, ground turmeric, coriander, and optional coconut sugar or brown sugar. This spice mix will add depth and warmth to the curry.
- Bring it Together: Add the prepared spice mix, chili garlic paste, full-fat coconut milk, and lime juice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir everything together well and bring the sauce to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Place the seared salmon filets back into the skillet, cover with a lid, and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakey. Just before serving, stir in the coarsely chopped spinach to wilt it slightly.
- Serve: Serve the salmon curry hot over steamed rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired and enjoy a deliciously rich and spicy meal.
Notes
- For a spicier curry, increase the amount of chili garlic paste to taste.
- Using full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and rich flavor; light coconut milk can be used but will be less creamy.
- To keep this recipe low-carb, serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
- Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions make great garnishes if you want an extra pop of freshness.
- Be careful not to overcook the salmon during the final simmer to keep it moist and tender.
