One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter is a rich, aromatic dinner that brings together flaky salmon fillets, creamy coconut milk and a fragrant blend of curry, garlic and herbs. It’s a minimalist recipe that feels restaurant-level but comes together with ease in one skillet. Finished with fresh lime juice and herbs, this dish is perfect for cozy nights, quick weeknight meals or anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors in their seafood dishes.
Prep Time: ~10 minutes
Cook Time: ~20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1–1.5 lbs salmon fillets
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 tablespoons garlic butter (or 2 tablespoons butter + 2 minced garlic cloves)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon red curry paste
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 can (13–14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional for depth)
- 1–2 tablespoons lime juice
- Fresh cilantro or basil, chopped
- Optional: sliced red chili, lime wedges, cooked rice or naan for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
➜ Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear salmon 1–2 minutes per side until lightly golden; remove and set aside.
➜ Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic butter and diced onion; sauté until soft and fragrant.
➜ Stir in red curry paste, curry powder and turmeric; cook 30–60 seconds to release flavor.
➜ Pour in coconut milk and broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
➜ Add fish sauce if using and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
➜ Return salmon fillets to the skillet. Simmer 8–10 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and the sauce slightly thickened.
➜ Remove from heat and finish with lime juice and fresh herbs.
➜ Serve with rice, couscous or naan, spooning extra curry sauce over the salmon.
Pro Tips (FAQ-style)
Can I use frozen salmon?
Yes—thaw fully, pat dry and sear briefly before adding to the curry sauce.
Can I make this dish spicier or milder?
Increase red curry paste for more heat or reduce it for a mild, creamy curry.
Can I substitute the salmon?
Absolutely—use prawns, cod or shrimp for alternate seafood versions; simply adjust cooking time.
Nutrition Summary
A rich coconut curry meal paired with omega-3-rich salmon for a flavorful and filling dinner.
Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar
1 plate | ~480 kcal | ~32 g | ~10 g | ~35 g | ~1 g | ~4 g
Nutrition facts are estimated.
