One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor, simplicity, and a touch of elegance, then you’ve got to try this One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter. This stunning recipe brings together tender, flaky salmon fillets lovingly bathed in a luxuriously creamy coconut curry sauce, enriched with fragrant garlic butter. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of cozy spice and rich tropical sweetness, making it an absolute weeknight winner or a special occasion showstopper.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, working together to build the vibrant taste, luscious texture, and gorgeous golden color that make this dish so irresistible. Each plays its unique role in making the One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter a cozy, restaurant-quality meal you’ll want to make again and again.

• Salmon fillets (4 x 6 oz): Choose fresh, high-quality salmon for that buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Full-fat coconut milk (1 can, 13.5 oz): Adds creamy richness and the perfect tropical base for the curry sauce.
• Red curry paste (2 tablespoons): Brings vibrant color and warming, aromatic spice to the dish.
• Butter (3 tablespoons, divided): Infuses the salmon and sauce with silky richness and helps develop that gorgeous golden crust on the fish.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Delivers a punch of soulful aroma and depth to the curry sauce.
• Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sauce and balances the richness with a fresh tang.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning essentials to enhance every flavor.
• Optional – chili flakes (¼ teaspoon): For anyone who loves an extra kick of heat.
• Optional – fresh cilantro: Adds a lovely fresh, herbal finish when sprinkled on top.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon

Start by patting your salmon fillets dry – this step is key for achieving that glorious golden sear. Then, season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until foamy. Place the salmon skin-side down and allow it to sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on each side. You want a beautifully browned crust that seals in all those juicy flavors. Once cooked, remove the fillets and set them safely aside – your kitchen is already filling with mouthwatering scents!

Step 2: Create the Coconut Curry Sauce

Using the same pan (this is where all the magic happens), melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until you can smell that heavenly fragrance filling the air. Next, stir in the red curry paste and let it cook for 2 minutes – this step lets the paste bloom, intensifying the bold spices. Pour in your luscious coconut milk and gently stir everything together. Lower the heat and let this creamy sauce simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens just right and the flavors marry beautifully. Don’t forget to season with fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper to keep the taste balanced and bright.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Now, it’s time to reunite your golden salmon with the fragrant curry sauce. Nestle each fillet gently into the pan, allowing them to soak up those gorgeous flavors. Let everything simmer together for another 5 to 7 minutes – this ensures the fish is perfectly cooked through while the sauce gets even more flavorful. For those who crave a little extra heat, sprinkle chili flakes on top just before serving. The final result is a dish that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly in just one pan.

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

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro instantly brightens and freshens this dish, adding a pop of color and herbaceous contrast. If you like a bit of crunch, toasted coconut flakes or chopped peanuts work beautifully as well, giving each bite a little textural excitement alongside the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

This salmon pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine rice, which soaks up every last drop of the coconut curry sauce. For a lighter option, serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus, snap peas, or sautéed spinach to add crispness and balance. Even a simple side salad with a zesty lime dressing complements the richness of the curry and keeps the meal feeling fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter over coconut rice for a tropical vibe or alongside cauliflower rice if you want to keep things low-carb. You can also plate this dish in shallow bowls topped with microgreens and a drizzle of extra lime juice for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down before refrigerating so the texture stays fresh and the flavors remain vibrant.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the salmon and curry sauce together. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for the best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over low heat to keep the salmon moist and preserve the sauce’s creamy texture. Microwave reheating works too but keep it short and stir the sauce to avoid overheating the fish.

FAQs

What type of salmon is best for this recipe?

Wild-caught salmon fillets are ideal because they have firmer flesh and richer flavor, but farmed salmon works great too if fresh and high quality.

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

Full-fat coconut milk is recommended here for its creamy consistency and flavor. Light coconut milk will result in a thinner sauce without as much richness.

How spicy is the One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter?

The spice level depends on the red curry paste you choose and whether you add chili flakes. Typically, it has a gentle warmth that can be adjusted to your taste.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative or coconut oil and keep the rest of the ingredients the same.

What can I do if I don’t have red curry paste?

You can try substituting with yellow or green curry paste, but the flavor will shift slightly. Alternatively, a homemade mix of curry powder, garlic, and some chili paste can work in a pinch.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, making this One-Pan Coconut Curry Salmon with Garlic Butter feels like giving yourself a little gift of flavorful comfort with minimal fuss. It’s an absolute joy to prepare and even more delightful to savor, whether you’re cooking for yourself or friends. So, grab your skillet, gather the ingredients, and treat yourself to this irresistible blend of creamy, spicy, and buttery deliciousness—you won’t regret it!

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