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Green Curry Salmon Recipe

This green curry salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining succulent baked salmon with a creamy, spicy green curry sauce. Served with tender, sautéed baby bok choy and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime, this dish is both vibrant and comforting.

Green Curry Salmon Recipe
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Photos of Green Curry Salmon Recipe

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Some of the ingredients in this recipe may not be staples in every kitchen. Make sure to pick up green curry paste and baby bok choy at the supermarket, as these are essential for achieving the authentic flavors. Full-fat coconut milk is also crucial for the rich, creamy texture of the sauce.

Ingredients for Green Curry Salmon Recipe

Salmon fillets: Rich, fatty fish that becomes tender and flaky when baked.

Olive oil: Used for brushing the salmon and sautéing the vegetables.

Fine sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the salmon and vegetables.

Freshly-cracked black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the dish.

Red onion: Adds sweetness and a slight bite to the curry sauce.

Baby bok choy: Provides a fresh, crunchy texture and mild flavor.

Garlic: Infuses the curry with aromatic depth.

Fresh ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note to the sauce.

Green curry paste: The key ingredient for that distinctive Thai flavor.

Full-fat coconut milk: Creates a creamy, luscious base for the curry.

Lime: Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the dish.

Fresh cilantro: Used as a garnish for a fresh, herby flavor.

Lime wedges: Serve alongside the dish for an extra burst of citrus.

One reader, Bevan Fulton says:

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The green curry salmon recipe is a delightful blend of flavors. The salmon is perfectly cooked, and the green curry sauce adds a rich, aromatic touch. The fresh cilantro and lime wedges elevate the dish. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that I'll definitely make again!

Bevan Fulton

Essential Techniques for Mastering Green Curry Salmon

How to bake salmon: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil. Place the salmon fillets on the parchment, brush evenly with oil, and season with salt and pepper. Bake for about 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch of thickness until the internal temperature reaches 135 to 140 degrees F, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

How to sauté vegetables: Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the chopped light green parts of the bok choy, garlic, and ginger, and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring often. Add the green curry paste and sauté for 1 minute, stirring often.

How to make curry sauce: Add coconut milk to the sautéed vegetables and stir until the curry paste has evenly dissolved into the sauce. Continue cooking until the sauce nearly reaches a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Stir in the dark green bok choy leaves and lime juice until combined. Season with salt, pepper, and/or extra lime juice as needed.

How To Make Green Curry Salmon

Cook a flavorful meal with this green curry salmon made with roasted salmon and sauteed bok in a creamy coconut sauce with a dash of lime juice.

Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 15 minutes
Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

  • 4salmon fillets
  • 2tbspolive oil,divided
  • fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper
  • 1red onion,peeled and thinly-sliced
  • 8ozbaby bok choy,roughly chopped, with light green stalks and dark green leaves separated
  • 3clovesgarlic,minced
  • 1tbspfresh ginger,minced
  • 2tbspgreen curry paste
  • 15ozfull-fat coconut milk,(1 can)
  • 1zest juice of large lime

For Toppings:

  • chopped fresh cilantro
  • extra lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 450 degrees F.  Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil. 

  2. Place the salmon fillets on the parchment, brush evenly with 1 tablespoon oil, then sprinkle evenly with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. 

  3. Bake for about 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch of thickness (measured by the thickest part of the filet) until the internal temperature of the salmon reaches 135 to 140 degrees F. Or test for doneness by inserting a fork or knife in the salmon and twisting it a bit; the fish should be opaque and flake easily. 

  4. Remove from the oven and set aside.

  5. Meanwhile, as the oven is heating for the salmon, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

  6. Add in the chopped light green parts of the bok choy, garlic, ginger, and sauté for 2 minutes, stirring often. Add in the green curry paste and sauté for 1 minute, stirring often.

  7. Add in the coconut milk, giving it a good stir until the curry paste has evenly dissolved into the sauce.  Continue cooking until the sauce nearly reaches a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. 

  8. Stir in the dark green bok choy leaves and the lime juice until combined.  Then give the sauce a taste, and season with salt, pepper, and/or extra lime juice as needed.

  9. Serve. Serve the salmon, veggies, and sauce over rice, garnished with lots of fresh cilantro and an extra lime wedge.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 1138.74kcal
  • Fat: 83.27g
  • Saturated Fat: 33.23g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 21.07g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 16.56g
  • Carbohydrates: 13.46g
  • Fiber: 2.64g
  • Sugar: 2.84g
  • Protein: 84.96g
  • Cholesterol: 218.54mg
  • Sodium: 1498.66mg
  • Calcium: 132.01mg
  • Potassium: 1964.04mg
  • Iron: 5.84mg
  • Vitamin A: 37.80µg
  • Vitamin C: 46.26mg

Pro Tip: Achieving the Perfect Consistency for Green Curry Sauce

When preparing salmon, ensure it is at room temperature before baking. This helps it cook more evenly. Additionally, when sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger, make sure to stir frequently to prevent burning and to release their full flavors into the green curry paste.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Green Curry Salmon

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the red onion, baby bok choy, garlic, and ginger in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made curry paste: Opt for store-bought green curry paste to save time on blending spices.

Cook rice simultaneously: Start cooking your rice while preparing the salmon and sauce to have everything ready at the same time.

Batch cook salmon: Bake extra salmon fillets to use in other meals throughout the week.

One-pan method: Use a large sauté pan to cook the veggies and sauce together, reducing the number of dishes to clean.

Substitute Ingredients For Green Curry Salmon Recipe

  • salmon fillets - Substitute with cod fillets: Cod has a mild flavor and firm texture that works well with green curry.

  • olive oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil complements the flavors of the curry and adds a subtle coconut aroma.

  • fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it a suitable replacement.

  • freshly-cracked black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and won't alter the color of the dish.

  • red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor that blends well with curry.

  • baby bok choy - Substitute with spinach: Spinach wilts quickly and has a similar texture, making it a good alternative.

  • garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, though fresh is preferred for better flavor.

  • fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in a pinch, though fresh ginger provides a more vibrant taste.

  • green curry paste - Substitute with red curry paste: Red curry paste has a similar base but will add a different color and slightly different flavor profile.

  • full-fat coconut milk - Substitute with light coconut milk: Light coconut milk has less fat but still provides the creamy texture needed for the curry.

  • zest juice of large lime - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar acidity and brightness to the dish.

  • chopped fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can add a similar fresh, herbaceous note to the dish.

  • extra lime wedges - Substitute with extra lemon wedges: Lemon wedges can provide a similar tangy finish to the dish.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

  1. Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the salmon fillets in smaller, elegantly cut portions to highlight the quality and texture of the fish. This allows the green curry sauce to shine without overwhelming the palate.

  2. Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped fresh cilantro and thin slices of lime wedges. Arrange them artistically around the salmon to add a pop of color and freshness.

  3. Layer the elements: Place a bed of rice at the center of the plate. Layer the sautéed veggies and green curry sauce on top, followed by the salmon fillet. This creates a visually appealing stack that showcases each component.

  4. Highlight textures: Ensure the baby bok choy is cooked to a tender-crisp texture. This contrasts beautifully with the flaky salmon and creamy coconut milk sauce, providing a delightful mouthfeel.

  5. Use high-quality ingredients: Emphasize the use of premium olive oil, fresh ginger, and green curry paste. Mention these ingredients in the presentation to underline the dish's sophistication and attention to detail.

  6. Create a balanced color palette: Use the vibrant hues of the red onion, bok choy, and lime zest to create a visually striking plate. The colors should complement each other and make the dish look as appetizing as it tastes.

  7. Incorporate height: Elevate the presentation by stacking the salmon slightly on top of the veggies and rice. This adds dimension to the plate and makes it more visually interesting.

  8. Finish with a drizzle: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of the green curry sauce around the plate. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an artistic touch to the presentation.

  9. Use elegant plating: Choose a sleek, modern plate with a wide rim to frame the dish beautifully. The extra space allows for creative garnishing and ensures the focus remains on the food.

  10. Pay attention to detail: Ensure every element is meticulously placed. Wipe any stray sauce or crumbs from the plate edges to maintain a clean and professional appearance.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Green Curry Salmon

  • Oven: Used to bake the salmon fillets to the perfect doneness.

  • Baking sheet: Holds the salmon fillets while they bake in the oven.

  • Parchment paper: Lines the baking sheet to prevent the salmon from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

  • Brush: Used to evenly coat the salmon fillets with olive oil.

  • Sauté pan: Used to cook the onion, bok choy, garlic, ginger, and green curry paste.

  • Knife: Essential for chopping the red onion, bok choy, garlic, and ginger.

  • Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the vegetables and aromatics.

  • Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, green curry paste, and other ingredients.

  • Stirring spoon: Used to stir the ingredients in the sauté pan.

  • Zester: Used to zest the lime for added flavor in the sauce.

  • Juicer: Extracts the juice from the lime to add to the sauce.

  • Thermometer: Checks the internal temperature of the salmon to ensure it is cooked to perfection.

  • Serving platter: Used to present the salmon, veggies, and sauce beautifully.

  • Rice cooker: Optional, but useful for preparing the rice to serve with the dish.

Storing and Freezing Green Curry Salmon for Later

  • To store leftover green curry salmon, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
  • When reheating, gently warm the curry in a saucepan over medium-low heat until heated through. Add a splash of coconut milk or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
  • For longer storage, you can freeze the green curry salmon for up to 2-3 months. Divide the curry into individual portions and store them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
  • To freeze, let the curry cool completely before transferring it to the containers. Leave some headspace to allow for expansion during freezing.
  • Label the containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
  • When ready to eat, thaw the frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight.
  • Reheat the thawed curry in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little extra coconut milk or water to adjust the consistency.
  • Note: The texture of the salmon may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the flavors will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Green Curry Salmon

  • Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover green curry salmon in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through and the curry sauce is bubbling. This method helps to retain the moisture in the salmon and prevents it from drying out.

  • Reheat on the stovetop: transfer the leftover green curry salmon to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of coconut milk or water to thin it out. Heat until the salmon is warmed through and the sauce is simmering.

  • Reheat in the microwave: while not the ideal method, you can still use the microwave to reheat your leftover green curry salmon. Transfer the salmon and sauce to a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to prevent the salmon from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the salmon is heated through. Stir the sauce and check the temperature of the salmon before serving.

  • Repurpose leftovers: if you're looking for a creative way to use your leftover green curry salmon, consider flaking the salmon and using it in a salad, wrap, or fried rice. The flaked salmon and curry sauce can add a delicious flavor and texture to a variety of dishes, giving your leftovers a new lease on life.

Surprising Facts About Green Curry Salmon

A random fact about this green curry salmon recipe is that coconut milk not only adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish but also provides healthy fats and a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness of the green curry paste.

Is Making Green Curry Salmon at Home Cost-Effective?

This green curry salmon recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like salmon fillets, coconut milk, and baby bok choy can be slightly pricey, but the overall flavor and nutritional value justify the expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $30-$35 USD. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is Green Curry Salmon Healthy or Unhealthy?

This green curry salmon recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and nutrition. The salmon provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health. Bok choy is a low-calorie vegetable packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. The use of coconut milk adds a creamy texture and healthy fats to the dish. However, the recipe also includes a significant amount of saturated fat from the coconut milk, which should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, the sodium content may be higher due to the curry paste and added salt.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

  • Reduce the amount of coconut milk and replace some with low-sodium vegetable broth to lower the saturated fat content
  • Opt for a reduced-sodium green curry paste or make your own to control the salt intake
  • Increase the variety of vegetables by adding bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrients and fiber
  • Serve the curry with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich option
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like Thai basil or mint for an extra burst of flavor and antioxidants

Editor's Opinion: Why Green Curry Salmon is a Must-Try

This green curry salmon recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the rich, buttery texture of salmon with the vibrant, aromatic notes of green curry. The use of fresh ginger and garlic adds depth, while the coconut milk provides a creamy balance. The inclusion of baby bok choy introduces a pleasant crunch and a hint of bitterness that complements the dish. Baking the salmon ensures it remains moist and tender. Serving it over rice with fresh cilantro and lime wedges enhances the overall freshness. This dish is both sophisticated and comforting, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Enhance Your Green Curry Salmon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Sticky Rice: Elevate your green curry salmon experience with a delightful mango sticky rice. The creamy coconut milk in the rice complements the curry sauce, while the sweet, juicy mango adds a refreshing contrast. This dessert will transport your taste buds straight to Thailand.
Spicy Thai Cucumber Salad: Balance the richness of the salmon with a spicy Thai cucumber salad. Crisp cucumbers, zesty lime juice, and a hint of chili heat will cleanse your palate and add a refreshing crunch to your meal. This salad is a perfect way to keep things light and vibrant.
Garlic Naan Bread: Soak up every drop of that luscious green curry sauce with some warm, fluffy garlic naan bread. The garlic and butter flavors in the naan will enhance the savory notes of the curry, making each bite a delightful fusion of textures and tastes.
Thai Iced Tea: Complement your green curry salmon with a refreshing glass of Thai iced tea. The creamy, sweet tea with hints of spices will provide a soothing contrast to the spicy and savory elements of your main course. It's the perfect beverage to round out your meal.
Papaya Salad: Add a burst of color and flavor to your green curry salmon with a vibrant papaya salad. The crunchy green papaya, tangy lime juice, and spicy chilies create a symphony of flavors that will dance on your palate and complement the rich curry perfectly.

Delicious Alternatives to Green Curry Salmon

Thai Basil Chicken: Dive into the aromatic world of Thai Basil Chicken. This dish features tender chicken stir-fried with fragrant basil, garlic, and chilies. Serve it over a bed of steaming jasmine rice for a meal that's both comforting and exhilarating.
Coconut Shrimp Curry: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with Coconut Shrimp Curry. Juicy shrimp are simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce infused with lemongrass, ginger, and a hint of lime. Perfectly paired with rice noodles or basmati rice.
Mango Chicken Stir-Fry: Experience a burst of flavors with Mango Chicken Stir-Fry. Sweet and tangy mango chunks meld beautifully with savory chicken and crisp bell peppers. A splash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of cilantro complete this vibrant dish.
Spicy Tofu and Vegetable Curry: For a vegetarian delight, try Spicy Tofu and Vegetable Curry. Firm tofu cubes and a medley of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli are simmered in a spicy coconut curry sauce. Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome meal.
Lemongrass Beef Skewers: Grill up some Lemongrass Beef Skewers for a smoky, flavorful treat. Marinated beef slices are threaded onto skewers with lemongrass and onions, then grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of peanut sauce and cucumber salad.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Green Curry Salmon

Appetizers:
Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these Stuffed Mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Sauté finely chopped garlic and onions until fragrant, then mix with cream cheese and parmesan for a creamy filling. Add a touch of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped chives.
Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate the classic Shrimp Cocktail by poaching large, succulent shrimp in a flavorful broth of lemon, garlic, and bay leaves. Chill the shrimp and serve them with a zesty cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, and a dash of hot sauce. For an extra touch, add a side of avocado slices and cucumber ribbons. Present the dish on a bed of crushed ice with lemon wedges for a refreshing and elegant appetizer.
Desserts:
Mango Sticky Rice: Indulge in a delightful Thai-inspired dessert that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes. This treat features sticky rice cooked to perfection, then drenched in a luscious coconut sauce. The dish is beautifully garnished with fresh mango slices and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, adding a delightful crunch. Serve it warm or at room temperature for a comforting end to your meal.
Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: Experience the unique flavors of Japan with this refreshing dessert. The earthy notes of matcha green tea are perfectly balanced with the creamy texture of homemade ice cream. This treat is not only visually appealing with its vibrant green hue but also offers a sophisticated taste that will leave your palate wanting more. Serve it in a bowl or a cone, and consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra layer of indulgence.

Why trust this Green Curry Salmon Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of green curry paste and coconut milk with the freshness of lime juice and cilantro. The salmon fillets are baked to perfection, ensuring a tender and flaky texture. The addition of baby bok choy and red onion adds a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. With clear instructions and easily accessible ingredients, this dish is both delicious and straightforward to prepare. Trust this recipe for a satisfying and flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends.

Share your thoughts on the Green Curry Salmon Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!
FAQ:
How do I know when the salmon is done cooking?
I usually check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be between 135 to 140 degrees F. Alternatively, you can insert a fork or knife into the salmon and twist it a bit; the fish should be opaque and flake easily.
Can I use a different type of fish instead of salmon?
Absolutely! You can substitute salmon with other firm fish like cod, halibut, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since different fish have different thicknesses and cooking times.
What can I use if I don't have green curry paste?
If you don't have green curry paste, you can use red or yellow curry paste as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. You can also make your own green curry paste if you have the ingredients on hand.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can definitely prepare parts of this dish ahead of time. The salmon can be baked and stored in the fridge, and the curry sauce can be made and reheated when you're ready to serve. Just combine everything and heat it up before serving.
What can I serve with this green curry salmon?
I love serving this dish over rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. You can also serve it with quinoa, noodles, or even a side of steamed vegetables if you're looking for a lighter option.

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