Melt-in-Your-Mouth Coconut Curry Salmon with Peppers Recipe

Culinary adventurers seeking a delightful coconut curry salmon dish will find their taste buds dancing with excitement.

Vibrant peppers add a colorful splash to this mouthwatering creation.

Tender salmon nestles perfectly in a rich, velvety sauce that whispers tropical secrets.

Fragrant spices weave magic through each delectable bite, promising an unforgettable dining experience.

Effortless to prepare, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen.

Creamy and bold, the combination of ingredients creates a harmony that will have you craving seconds.

Why settle for ordinary when you can indulge in this extraordinary seafood masterpiece?

Reasons Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon with Peppers Stands Out

  • Unlock Flavor Explosion: Dive into a mouthwatering salmon dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary adventure with bold, vibrant spices and creamy coconut sauce.
  • Master One-Pan Magic: Create a gourmet meal using just one skillet, minimizing kitchen cleanup and maximizing convenience for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality dinner without complicated techniques.
  • Nutrition Powerhouse: Packed with omega-3 rich salmon, colorful bell peppers, and anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, this recipe delivers a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste or satisfaction.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows simple substitutions like swapping salmon for chicken, adjusting spice levels, or using alternative rice options to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients Needed for Coconut Curry Salmon with Peppers

For the Proteins:
  • Salmon: Fresh, tender fish that serves as the main protein and absorbs the rich curry flavors.
For the Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Onions: Provide a foundational depth of flavor and aromatic base for the curry.
  • Bell Peppers: Add sweetness, color, and crisp texture to the dish.
For the Sauce and Seasoning:
  • Coconut Milk: Creates a creamy, rich base that gives the curry its signature smooth texture.
  • Red Curry Paste: Delivers authentic Thai-inspired spicy and complex flavor profile.
  • Vegetable Broth: Enhances the overall liquid base and adds subtle depth to the sauce.
  • Soy Sauce: Provides umami and balanced saltiness to the curry.
  • Lime Juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the coconut milk.
For the Spices and Herbs:
  • Turmeric: Offers warm, earthy undertones and golden color to the sauce.
  • Chili Flakes: Introduces a gentle heat and spicy kick to the dish.
For the Garnish and Serving:
  • Cilantro: Fresh herb that adds a vibrant, herbal note to finish the dish.
For the Cooking and Base:
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing salmon and sautéing vegetables.
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Instructions for Making Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon Dish

Step 1: Prepare Salmon for Searing

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season salmon with salt and pepper.

Sear the salmon for 3-4 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown crust. Carefully remove the salmon from the skillet and set aside on a clean plate.

Step 2: Create Aromatic Base

In the same skillet, add another splash of olive oil. Sauté the following ingredients:
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped onions

Cook until they become fragrant and slightly translucent.

Add bell peppers and continue cooking for 3 minutes until they become slightly tender.

Step 3: Build Flavorful Curry Sauce

Introduce these spices to the skillet:
  • Red curry paste
  • Ground turmeric
  • Chili flakes

Stir and cook for 1 minute to release their aromatic oils.

Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Enhance Sauce Flavors

Add soy sauce and fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust salt as needed.

Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and develop depth.

Step 5: Finish Cooking Salmon

Gently return the seared salmon to the skillet.

Spoon the curry sauce over the fish. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the salmon is fully cooked and absorbs the rich curry flavors.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the dish. Serve immediately with steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter alternative.

The creamy, spicy sauce and perfectly cooked salmon create a delightful meal that’s both comforting and exciting.

Helpful Tips for Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon Success

  • Pat salmon dry before cooking to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and prevent steaming.
  • Adjust red curry paste and chili flakes according to your heat tolerance for a personalized flavor profile.
  • Use fresh bell peppers and high-quality coconut milk to enhance the overall taste and richness of the curry.
  • Watch cooking time carefully, as salmon can quickly become dry; aim for a moist, flaky texture.
  • Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly version of this delicious dish.

Flavorful Variations for Coconut Curry Salmon with Peppers

  • Spicy Coconut Curry Salmon: Increase chili flakes and add fresh jalapeños for an extra heat kick. Complement with a cooling yogurt drizzle.
  • Mediterranean Herb Salmon Curry: Replace red curry paste with oregano, thyme, and basil. Use Greek yogurt instead of coconut milk for a tangy Mediterranean profile.
  • Tropical Mango Salmon Curry: Add diced fresh mango to the sauce for sweet complexity. Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for extra texture and island flavor.
  • Green Curry Salmon Bowl: Swap red curry paste for green curry paste. Include bamboo shoots and Thai basil leaves for an authentic Southeast Asian experience.

Best Pairings with Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon Dish

  • Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a chilled Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, spicy curry sauce and cut through the richness of the salmon.
  • Match with Fragrant Jasmine Rice: Create a perfect base that absorbs the flavorful curry sauce and provides a neutral backdrop to the bold salmon and pepper flavors.
  • Add Fresh Cucumber Salad: Prepare a light, cool side dish with cucumber, mint, and a touch of lime to balance the warm, spicy curry and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve with Mango Chutney: Introduce a sweet and tangy condiment that enhances the curry's complexity and adds a tropical dimension to the dish's overall flavor profile.

Proper Storage for Coconut Curry Salmon with Peppers

Store leftover salmon curry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent bacterial growth.

Transfer to freezer-safe containers, keeping sauce and fish intact. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing more than once to maintain quality.

Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring midway to distribute heat evenly.

Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding splash of coconut milk to prevent drying. Stir occasionally and heat until salmon reaches 145°F internal temperature.

FAQs

  • How spicy is this curry?

The heat level depends on the red curry paste and chili flakes. You can control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of chili flakes or using a mild curry paste.

  • Can I use a different type of fish?

Yes! Cod, halibut, or sea bass work great as alternatives to salmon. Just ensure the fish is fresh and adjust cooking time based on thickness.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Check that your curry paste is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain wheat.

  • What if I don't have fresh cilantro?

You can substitute with fresh parsley or skip the herbs entirely. The curry will still be delicious with the aromatic spices and creamy coconut sauce.

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Amazing Creamy Coconut Curry Salmon With Peppers Recipe


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4.7 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Creamy coconut curry salmon dazzles palates with rich Indian-inspired flavors and tender fish swimming in silky sauce. Colorful bell peppers and aromatic spices create a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces/170 grams each)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

Sauce and Seasonings:

  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare a skillet over medium-high heat and warm olive oil. Generously season salmon fillets with salt and pepper, then sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until achieving a golden-brown exterior. Transfer cooked salmon to a separate plate.
  2. In the same skillet, drizzle additional olive oil and introduce minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté until aromatic and translucent. Add sliced bell peppers and cook approximately 3 minutes until they become slightly softened.
  3. Incorporate red curry paste, ground turmeric, and crushed chili flakes into the vegetable mixture. Allow spices to bloom for one minute, releasing their intense flavors. Pour coconut milk and vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring thoroughly to create a smooth, fragrant sauce.
  4. Enhance the curry sauce with soy sauce and fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Reduce heat and let the sauce gently simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and develop complexity.
  5. Carefully nestle seared salmon fillets back into the simmering curry sauce. Spoon sauce over the fish and continue cooking 5-7 minutes until salmon reaches desired doneness and is thoroughly heated.
  6. Finish the dish by scattering fresh cilantro leaves over the top. Serve immediately alongside steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter alternative.

Notes

  • Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for the most tender and flavorful result.
  • Pat salmon dry before searing to ensure a golden, crispy exterior that locks in moisture.
  • Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing chili flakes and curry paste according to personal heat preference.
  • Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a celiac-friendly version of this dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

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