If you’re ready to elevate your dinner game, look no further than this blissful blend of flavors that is Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter. This dish combines succulent salmon fillets with a creamy coconut curry sauce, enhanced by the richness of garlic butter. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that can transport you to a tropical paradise with just one bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into the reasons why you need to make this dish, the ingredients you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide to creating this culinary masterpiece.
Top Reasons to Make Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.

– Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy curry powder, creamy coconut milk, and garlic butter creates an unforgettable flavor experience that will keep you coming back for more.
– Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– Health Benefits: Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, and the addition of vibrant vegetables like broccoli makes this dish both nutritious and satisfying.
– Versatile: You can serve this Coconut Curry Salmon over rice, quinoa, or even noodles, allowing you to switch things up based on your mood.
What’s in the Bowl
To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 (4-6 ounce) salmon fillets
- 2-3 tablespoons spicy curry powder (homemade in notes)
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli
- 2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce)
- 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
Setup & Equipment
Before you start, gather the following equipment to make your cooking experience seamless:
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Whisk
Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and chili flakes to taste.
Step 2: Sear the Salmon
In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the salted butter. Once melted, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Add the Curry Paste and Spices
Stir in the Thai red curry paste, fresh grated ginger, and spicy curry powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the butter.
Step 5: Incorporate the Coconut Milk
Pour in the canned full-fat coconut milk, tamari or soy sauce, and fish sauce (or soy sauce). Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Add the Broccoli
Stir in the chopped broccoli, allowing it to cook in the sauce for about 5 minutes, until it’s tender but still bright green.
Step 7: Return the Salmon
Gently place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 8: Glaze with Honey
Drizzle the honey over the salmon and sauce, giving it a sweet contrast to the spicy curry.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter over a bed of rice or quinoa, ensuring each plate gets plenty of that luscious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired!
Seasonal Flavor Boosts

To take your Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter to the next level, consider these seasonal additions:
- Fresh Herbs: Add cilantro or basil for a fresh pop of flavor.
- Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini.
- Citrus Zest: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving enhances the dish’s brightness.
Learn from These Mistakes
To ensure your Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the Salmon: Keep an eye on your cooking time to maintain the salmon’s tenderness.
- Ignoring the Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of curry powder and chili flakes based on your spice preference.
- Using Low-Fat Coconut Milk: For the best flavor and creaminess, opt for full-fat coconut milk.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
This dish is not only delicious but also great for meal prep. Here are some tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day!
Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter. FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes! While salmon is recommended for its richness, other firm fish like trout or halibut can work beautifully in this Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Use less curry powder and chili flakes for a milder flavor.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the salted butter with a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil for a dairy-free version of Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat the salmon in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals until warmed through.
If you love this Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:
Next Steps
Now that you have the complete guide to making Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter, it’s time to hit the kitchen! Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and prepare for a meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish will undoubtedly steal the show. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the satisfaction of creating something truly special.

Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Salmon. Begin by patting the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and chili flakes to taste.
- Step 2: Sear the Salmon. In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until the skin is crispy. Carefully flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are cooked through. Remove the salmon from the skillet and set it aside.
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the salted butter. Once melted, add the chopped garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Step 4: Add the Curry Paste and Spices. Stir in the Thai red curry paste, fresh grated ginger, and spicy curry powder. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the butter.
- Step 5: Incorporate the Coconut Milk. Pour in the canned full-fat coconut milk, tamari or soy sauce, and fish sauce (or soy sauce). Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6: Add the Broccoli. Stir in the chopped broccoli, allowing it to cook in the sauce for about 5 minutes, until it’s tender but still bright green.
- Step 7: Return the Salmon. Gently place the seared salmon fillets back into the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes to soak up all the delicious flavors.
- Step 8: Glaze with Honey. Drizzle the honey over the salmon and sauce, giving it a sweet contrast to the spicy curry.
- Step 9: Serve and Enjoy. Serve your Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter over a bed of rice or quinoa, ensuring each plate gets plenty of that luscious sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
- Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can enhance the flavor.
