One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

If you are craving a dish that combines vibrant flavors with effortless cooking, look no further than this One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter. This delightful recipe transforms simple salmon fillets into a luscious, fragrant meal featuring a creamy coconut curry sauce stirred with garlic butter. It perfectly balances richness and spice while staying incredibly easy to prepare, all without dirtying more than one pan. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or hosting friends, this recipe hits the spot with its beautiful aroma, gorgeous color, and mouthwatering taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the harmonious flavor and texture of this dish. From the tender salmon seasoned just right, to the silky garlic butter coconut curry sauce that brings everything together, these essentials are simple but make all the difference.

• Salmon fillets (4): Choose skin-on for extra crispiness or skinless for a more delicate bite.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances the natural flavor of the fish perfectly.
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning.
• Paprika (½ tsp): Brings a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the salmon.
• Olive oil (1 tbsp): For searing the fish to a crispy golden exterior.
• Butter (2 tbsp): The base for a rich and luxurious curry sauce.
• Garlic cloves, minced (4): Imparts a robust, aromatic flavor that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Fresh ginger, grated (1 tsp): Adds a bright, zesty kick that complements the curry.
• Curry powder (1 tsp): Provides the warm, complex spice backbone of the sauce.
• Turmeric (½ tsp): For vibrant color and mild earthiness.
• Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): A little heat to elevate the curry without overpowering it.
• Coconut milk (1 can, 13.5 oz): Makes the sauce creamy and silky smooth.
• Tomato paste (1 tbsp): Balances the coconut creaminess with subtle acidity.
• Honey or maple syrup (1 tsp): A touch of sweetness to round out the spices.
• Soy sauce (1 tbsp): Adds depth and a subtle umami note.
• Lime juice (Juice of ½ lime): Brightens everything with fresh citrus zing.
• Fresh cilantro or basil (¼ cup, chopped): Vibrant herbs for garnish that bring freshness and color to the final plate.

How to Make One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter

Step 1: Season and Sear the Salmon

Begin by patting your salmon fillets dry to ensure a nice sear. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly on both sides of the fish. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place the salmon fillets skin-side down and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the skin to get crispy and golden brown. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 2 minutes, then remove the salmon from the pan and set aside. This step locks in moisture and builds those irresistible textures that elevate the dish.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Coconut Curry Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the same pan, letting it melt fully. Toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant – this aroma is what gets your appetite really going. Next, stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and if you like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes. Toast these spices for 30 seconds, which helps bloom their flavors beautifully. Pour in the coconut milk, tomato paste, honey or maple syrup, soy sauce, and finish with lime juice. Give it a good stir and let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes, giving the sauce time to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld into a creamy, exotic delight.

Step 3: Simmer the Salmon in the Sauce

Return the seared salmon fillets back to the pan, nestling them into the luscious curry sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the fillets so they soak up every bit of flavor. Let the salmon gently simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes, allowing it to cook through fully while becoming tender and flaky. This last cooking phase infuses the fish with the garlicky, buttery, coconut curry goodness we all crave.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or basil over the top to add a fresh herbal pop that contrasts beautifully against the rich sauce. Your stunning One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil are essential to cutting through the richness of the sauce and adding vibrant color. You could also add a few thin slices of fresh chili or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and visual appeal. These little extras make your dish feel even more special and restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant basmati, which soak up any leftover sauce perfectly. For a lower-carb option, serve alongside fluffy quinoa or lightly sautéed greens like spinach or bok choy. Warm naan bread is also a fantastic choice for scooping up the creamy curry sauce and adding an indulgent touch.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, serve the salmon fillets nestled on a bed of coconut rice, drizzled with extra sauce and topped with colorful microgreens or edible flowers. To switch things up, you can plate the curry salmon over a platter of grilled vegetables or roasted cauliflower rice for a stunning, wholesome twist. Presentation is all about highlighting those golden salmon fillets and the gorgeous orange-hued sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salmon will continue to absorb the flavorful sauce, making the next-day meal even tastier. Just be sure to reheat gently to avoid drying out the fish.

Freezing

While freezing cooked salmon can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze the curry sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw the sauce overnight and gently warm it before adding freshly cooked salmon. This way you keep the flavors fresh and the fish perfectly flaky.

Reheating

When reheating leftover One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter, gently warm it over low heat in a covered pan to keep the salmon moist and prevent the sauce from separating. Avoid microwaving if possible, or use short bursts with stirring in between to maintain texture. Adding a splash of coconut milk or water can help loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen salmon fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry before cooking. This ensures even searing and the best texture for your One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.

How spicy is this dish?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but you can adjust or omit them based on your heat preference. The curry powder and turmeric provide warmth and depth without overpowering spice, making it suitable for most palates.

Can I substitute the curry powder with something else?

If you don’t have curry powder, a mix of ground cumin, coriander, and a pinch of cayenne pepper can work as an excellent substitute. However, curry powder brings a unique blend of spices that is central to the flavor of this dish.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Not as written, since it includes butter. You can easily swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter to make this dish dairy-free without losing richness.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?

Dried herbs won’t provide the same fresh punch, so if fresh cilantro or basil aren’t available, try fresh parsley or a squeeze of extra lime juice to brighten the dish right before serving.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter truly feels like a special meal made simple. The irresistible combination of creamy coconut, fragrant spices, and buttery garlic melds beautifully with tender salmon, all cooked up in just one pan for minimal mess and maximum flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or loved ones, this recipe promises to become a much-loved go-to that’s both impressive and easy. Give it a try and savor the delicious magic in every bite!

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