Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon recipe! In just 30 minutes, you'll enjoy tender, flaky salmon infused with rich coconut milk and aromatic red curry paste. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and served with a side of rice or veggies, this dish is not only quick but also a deliciously healthy option for seafood lovers.
This Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon is a game changer for busy weeknights!
A Taste of Thailand
This Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon captures the essence of Thai cuisine with its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients. Red curry paste is a staple in many Thai dishes, combining spices like chili, garlic, and lemongrass to create a harmonious blend that elevates the dish. When you pair the spiciness of the curry with the creamy, soothing notes of coconut milk, you've got a winning flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds with every bite.
Not only does this dish showcase traditional Thai flavors, but it also introduces a modern twist by utilizing salmon as the main protein. Salmon is known for its rich taste and health benefits, including omega-3 fatty acids that support heart health. This recipe provides an easy way to incorporate these nutritious ingredients into your meal rotation while indulging in a delightful culinary experience.
Perfect Pairings
One of the great things about Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon is its versatility when it comes to side dishes. Whether you prefer fluffy jasmine rice, which absorbs the delicious curry sauce beautifully, or crisp steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, you can customize the meal to fit your taste. For a more filling option, consider serving it with quinoa or brown rice, which add extra fiber and nutrients.
Additionally, a light cucumber salad dressed with lime and sesame oil can serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the salmon. This pairing not only complements the meal but also adds a burst of color, making your plate aesthetically appealing and inviting.
Quick and Healthy Option
In today’s fast-paced world, finding nutritious meals that can be prepared quickly is essential. This Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon recipe checks all the boxes—ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Plus, with wholesome ingredients like salmon and coconut milk, you can feel good knowing you're providing your family with a healthy meal packed with flavor.
Additionally, this dish is an excellent gateway for those looking to experiment with Asian flavors in their everyday cooking. With relatively few ingredients and simple preparation steps, it encourages culinary exploration without overwhelming novice cooks. The ease of preparation makes it a fantastic choice for both seasoned chefs and kitchen newcomers.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients for a delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to prep everything before you start cooking.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to cook the salmon perfectly!
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice.
Arrange Salmon
Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
Add Sauce
Pour the curry sauce over the salmon fillets.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or veggies.
Enjoy your delicious meal!
Storage Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers after making your Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon, don’t worry! This dish stores well and can be enjoyed for lunch the next day. To store, place any uneaten salmon and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. For the best quality, consume within 2-3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to prevent the salmon from drying out.
For those who prefer meal prepping, you can make the salmon and sauce ahead of time. Simply prepare the curry sauce as directed, then store it separately from the salmon fillets. When you’re ready to eat, season the salmon, pour the sauce over, and bake as directed. This way, you enjoy a fresh, flavorful dinner with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this dish is an opportunity to get creative! Consider garnishing your salmon with additional fresh herbs like basil or mint for an added layer of flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also provide a little extra heat for those who enjoy a spicier kick. Pair it with a wedge of lime for those who like to squeeze fresh citrus right before eating, enhancing the bright flavors of the dish.
To round out your meal, consider offering small bowls of condiment options like soy sauce, extra fish sauce, or spicy chili oil. This not only complements the flavors of the salmon but also allows each person to tailor their meal to their own preference, making dinner time an interactive and enjoyable experience.
Nutritional Benefits
Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon isn't just a feast for your taste buds; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. Salmon is an excellent source of high-quality protein and is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and promote heart health. Meanwhile, coconut milk not only adds a creamy texture but also provides healthy fats that can help support overall wellness.
Additionally, the vibrant ingredients like lime juice and fresh herbs contribute essential vitamins and minerals. Lime is rich in vitamin C, important for immune function, while herbs like cilantro are known for their detoxifying properties. This dish is a flavorful way to support a balanced diet while enjoying a delicious meal any night of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of fish?
Yes, you can substitute with other firm white fish, like cod or halibut.
→ What can I add for extra spice?
Consider adding fresh chilies or extra curry paste to the sauce.
Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this vibrant Baked Thai Red Curry Salmon recipe! In just 30 minutes, you'll enjoy tender, flaky salmon infused with rich coconut milk and aromatic red curry paste. Perfectly balanced with fresh herbs and served with a side of rice or veggies, this dish is not only quick but also a deliciously healthy option for seafood lovers.
Created by: Daisy Webb
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 4 salmon fillets
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, and lime juice.
Place salmon fillets in a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
Pour the curry sauce over the salmon fillets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or veggies.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g