Baked Coconut Curry Salmon

Baked Coconut Curry Salmon is a flavorful, nourishing dish that fuses the creaminess of coconut milk with the bold spices of curry. Tender salmon fillets are baked in a rich, aromatic sauce that’s infused with garlic, ginger, and curry paste, creating a satisfying meal that’s both simple and elegant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy one-pan preparation with minimal cleanup
• Bold, restaurant-quality flavor from a handful of pantry ingredients
• Perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Great for meal prep or a healthy weeknight dinner
• Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free
• Can be served over rice, noodles, or veggies
• Impressive enough for entertaining guests
• Easy to customize with different vegetables or spice levels
• Pairs well with fresh herbs, lime, or a mango salsa

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets (skinless or skin-on, depending on preference)
• Coconut milk (full-fat for a richer sauce)
• Thai red curry paste
• Garlic, minced
• Fresh ginger, grated
• Onion or shallots, finely chopped
• Lime juice
• Olive oil or coconut oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh cilantro or basil for garnish (optional)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, whisk together the coconut milk, red curry paste, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and chopped onions.
3. Season the salmon with salt and pepper, then place it in the sauce, skin-side down if using skin-on fillets.
4. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece of salmon.
5. Bake uncovered for 18–20 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
7. Serve hot with rice, quinoa, or vegetables.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spice Level: Add sliced chili peppers or extra curry paste for more heat.
• Vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or baby spinach to the baking dish.
• Protein Swap: Substitute salmon with tofu, shrimp, or chicken.
• Sauce Twist: Mix in a spoonful of peanut butter for a Thai peanut curry flavor.
• Herbs: Top with Thai basil or mint for added freshness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

How spicy is baked coconut curry salmon?

It depends on the curry paste used. Thai red curry is moderately spicy, but you can adjust the heat by using less paste or adding chili flakes for more spice.

Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

Can I bake the salmon with vegetables?

Absolutely. Add quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini to the dish before baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the salmon up to a day ahead. Bake when ready to serve.

What sides go well with this recipe?

Rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, or naan bread are all excellent choices.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Cooked salmon can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. For best results, consume within 2 months.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

It already is dairy-free if you use just coconut milk and no cream-based additions.

What type of curry paste should I use?

Thai red curry paste is the most common for this recipe, but green or yellow curry paste works too.

Can I cook the salmon on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer the sauce in a skillet and add the salmon, cooking it gently until done.

How do I know when the salmon is done?

The salmon should flake easily with a fork and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Conclusion

Baked Coconut Curry Salmon is a quick, delicious way to enjoy the bold flavors of Thai-inspired cuisine with minimal effort. Its creamy, spicy sauce and tender salmon make it a go-to recipe for busy nights or impressive dinners. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s full of flavor and warmth.

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