If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and is oh-so-easy to whip up, let me introduce you to my favorite coconut curry salmon with garlic butter! Seriously, this dish is a game changer. The rich, creamy coconut milk combined with the aromatic curry powder creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds. And don’t even get me started on the garlic butter—it adds a luxurious touch that makes this meal feel special. I first made this recipe on a cozy weeknight when I wanted something comforting yet healthy, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be craving it again and again!

Ingredients for Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter
(You’ll find everything you need to create this delicious dish right here! This list keeps it simple and straightforward, so you can easily gather your ingredients and get cooking.)
- 2 salmon fillets – Fresh, skin-on or skinless, your choice! Just make sure they’re good quality for the best flavor.
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk – This creamy goodness is what gives the dish that rich, velvety texture.
- 2 tablespoons curry powder – Adjust to your taste! I love a little extra kick, but you can go milder if you prefer.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is a must! It adds that aromatic punch that makes everything better.
- 1 tablespoon butter – For that luscious garlic butter flavor, of course! It’s what makes the salmon sing.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasonings, but they really bring out the flavors, so don’t skip them!
- Fresh cilantro for garnish – This is optional, but it adds a beautiful touch and a burst of freshness at the end.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to bring this mouthwatering coconut curry salmon with garlic butter to life! Trust me, the process is just as enjoyable as the eating part.
- Heat the butter: Start by placing a skillet over medium heat and adding the tablespoon of butter. Let it melt and get all bubbly and luscious—this is where the magic begins!
- Sauté the garlic: Once the butter is melted, toss in those minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant and turning a light golden brown. Be careful not to burn them—oops, nobody likes bitter garlic!
- Cook the salmon: Season your salmon fillets with salt and pepper on both sides. Carefully place them in the skillet, skin-side down if applicable. Cook for about 4 minutes on one side until it’s golden and crispy. Then, flip them over and cook for another 4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they flake easily with a fork.
- Add the coconut milk: Now, pour in that creamy coconut milk. It’s going to bubble and froth beautifully! Stir in the curry powder, making sure to coat the salmon well. This is where the flavor really comes alive!
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and the salmon to soak up all those delicious flavors. Keep an eye on it, and give it a gentle stir occasionally.
- Garnish and serve: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, it’s time to plate up! Garnish with fresh cilantro for that pop of color and freshness. Wow, doesn’t it look amazing?
And there you have it! This dish comes together so quickly, and the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table. Enjoy every bite of this delightful coconut curry salmon with garlic butter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Rich flavor: The combination of coconut milk, curry, and garlic butter creates a luscious sauce that’s truly irresistible.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with omega-3s from the salmon and the goodness of coconut milk, it’s a nutritious choice you can feel good about.
- Gluten-free option: If you’re avoiding gluten, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for everyone!
- Versatile: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or your favorite veggies to create a complete meal that suits your taste!
- Impressive presentation: With its vibrant colors and rich sauce, it’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes—perfect for impressing family and friends!
Once you give this coconut curry salmon a try, I promise you’ll be hooked! It’s a delightful meal that hits all the right notes, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.
Tips for Success
To make sure your coconut curry salmon with garlic butter comes out perfectly every time, here are some of my top tips that I swear by!
- Choose the right salmon: Look for fresh, wild-caught salmon if you can—it tends to have a better flavor and texture. If you’re using frozen, just make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning: Season your salmon generously with salt and pepper. This simple step really enhances the overall flavor, so don’t hold back!
- Adjust the curry powder: Everyone’s taste is different, so feel free to adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your preference. Start with the recommended amount, and if you like a bit more heat, go ahead and add a touch more!
- Perfect sauce consistency: If you find the sauce too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it thickens to your liking. Conversely, if it gets too thick, just add a splash of water or extra coconut milk to loosen it up!
- Garnish wisely: Fresh cilantro makes a beautiful garnish, but if you’re not a fan, consider using green onions or even a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish!
- Patience with cooking: Salmon can go from perfectly cooked to overdone quickly, so keep an eye on it. Cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of your fillets, so adjust as needed.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re on your way to creating a delightful coconut curry salmon that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Variations on Coconut Curry Salmon
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to shake things up a bit, there’s a whole world of variations you can explore with this coconut curry salmon! Here are some fun ideas to personalize the dish to your taste:
- Add vegetables: Toss in some fresh veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or snap peas while the salmon cooks. They add color, nutrition, and a delightful crunch to your meal!
- Switch up the curry: Try using different curry powders or pastes! A red curry paste can give it a spicier kick, while a green curry paste adds a fresh herbaceous note. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile!
- Mix in some fruit: For a tropical twist, add chunks of pineapple or mango during the last few minutes of cooking. The sweetness complements the savory flavors beautifully!
- Experiment with herbs: Instead of just cilantro, consider adding fresh basil or mint for a different aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
- Try a different protein: If salmon isn’t your thing, this recipe works wonderfully with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu! Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
- Change up the cooking method: Instead of pan-searing, you can bake the salmon in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, pouring the sauce over the top before baking. It’s an easy hands-off way to cook!
With these variations, you can keep your coconut curry salmon exciting and fresh every time you make it. So go ahead, mix and match, and find your favorite combination! Enjoy the journey of flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Now that your coconut curry salmon with garlic butter is ready to go, let’s talk about the best ways to serve it up! Trust me, the right pairings can elevate your meal from delicious to absolutely unforgettable.
- Serve over rice: A fluffy bed of jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up that creamy curry sauce. It’s like a flavor sponge that makes every bite even better!
- Quinoa for a nutty twist: If you’re in the mood for something a bit different, try serving the salmon over quinoa. It adds a lovely nuttiness and is packed with protein—plus, it’s gluten-free!
- Steamed vegetables: Brighten up your plate with some lightly steamed veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots. They add color, nutrition, and a satisfying crunch that complements the tender salmon.
- Fresh salad: A refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish beautifully. It’s a light and crisp contrast that’s totally delightful!
- Warm naan or flatbread: If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, serve with some warm naan or flatbread! It’s perfect for scooping up that luscious sauce and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood or what you have on hand. No matter how you serve it, this coconut curry salmon will shine as the star of your meal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftovers of this delicious coconut curry salmon with garlic butter (which I hope you do because it’s just as good the next day!), storing and reheating them properly is key to maintaining that wonderful flavor and texture.
Storing: First things first, let the salmon cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This helps keep the salmon moist and prevents it from drying out in the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days—just make sure to eat it before it gets too lonely in there!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, gently reheat them to avoid overcooking. The best way to do this is to use a skillet over low heat. Just add a splash of coconut milk or a bit of water to the skillet to help create steam and keep the salmon moist. Cover it with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to heat it for too long—30-second intervals should do the trick, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the delightful flavors of your coconut curry salmon with garlic butter even after the first meal. Enjoy every last bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about what’s going on nutritionally with this tasty coconut curry salmon with garlic butter! It’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate, right? Here are the estimated values based on typical ingredient values:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 36g
These estimates are based on the ingredients listed, and keep in mind that your exact numbers may vary a bit depending on specific brands or preparations used. But overall, you’re looking at a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with healthy fats and protein from the salmon. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something nourishing while indulging in those incredible flavors!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw your salmon before cooking. It’ll still turn out delicious, so don’t worry if you have frozen fillets on hand!
What if I don’t have curry powder?
No problem! You can use curry paste instead, which will give you a richer flavor. Just start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste as it cooks.
Can I make this dish spicy?
For sure! If you love a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper when you sauté the garlic. It’ll add a nice kick!
How do I know when the salmon is cooked through?
Great question! Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and has an opaque appearance. If you have a meat thermometer, it should read 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you need a substitute, you can use heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be different, but it can still be tasty!
Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter: 5 Flavorful Secrets
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious coconut curry salmon with garlic butter that combines rich flavors and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 salmon fillets
- 1 can coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons curry powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Season salmon with salt and pepper and add to the skillet.
- Cook salmon for about 4 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Pour in the coconut milk and add curry powder.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve with rice or quinoa.
- Adjust curry powder to your taste.
- Use fresh salmon for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with sauce
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: coconut curry salmon, garlic butter salmon, salmon recipes, curry recipes