Name: Butter Salmon Curry: A Creamy Delight in Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 fillets Salmon (can substitute with shrimp or chicken); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust according to preference); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Sweet Paprika (smoked paprika can add depth); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (can substitute with olive oil or ghee); 1 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (for richness); 3 cloves Garlic (minced, fresh is best); 1 medium Shallot (chopped, red onion can be used); 1 tablespoon Grated Ginger (fresh ginger preferred); 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin; 1 teaspoon Curry Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust according to heat preference); 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric; 1 teaspoon Ground Coriander; 1/2 cup Vegetable Broth (can use low-sodium broth); 2 tablespoons Garam Masala Paste (store-bought or homemade); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste; 1 cup Crushed Tomatoes (fresh tomatoes are fine when in season); 1/2 cup Cream (20% fat) (coconut cream for dairy-free); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (lime juice is an effective substitute); 1 teaspoon Crushed Chili Flakes (adjust to spice preference); 1/4 cup Toasted Cashews (or substitute with peanuts); 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (omit if not a fan)

As the aroma of spices wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the thought of my Easy Butter Salmon Curry. This one-pan creamy delight marries perfectly seared salmon with a luscious, slightly spicy tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s a feast for the senses. Best of all, it whips up in just 30 minutes—making it an efficient choice for any weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Picture serving this rich curry garnished with crushed cashews and fresh cilantro, alongside fluffy jasmine rice or warm naan. It’s comfort food you’ll crave again and again! Are you ready to dive into this delectable dish?

Why is this Butter Salmon Curry special?

Simplicity makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights, as everything cooks in one pan and is ready in just 30 minutes. Creamy, Rich Sauce that envelops your salmon ensures each bite is filled with unforgettable flavor, while the spicy kick awakens your taste buds. Versatile Protein Options allow you to switch things up with shrimp or chicken if you prefer. It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to impress family and friends at any dinner gathering. This easy Butter Salmon Curry is your ticket to gourmet comfort food without the hassle! Pair it with jasmine rice or try it with Garlic Butter Chicken for an equally delectable experience.

Butter Salmon Curry Ingredients

This Easy Butter Salmon Curry will be a delight to your taste buds, so gather up these essentials!

For the Curry

Salmon Fillets – The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and healthy omega-3s; feel free to substitute with shrimp or chicken for variety.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavors; adjust according to your preference for seasoning.
Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor.
Sweet Paprika – Provides color and a hint of sweetness; smoked paprika can add a lovely depth.
Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing to prevent sticking; you can substitute it with olive oil or ghee.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and creaminess to the sauce; for a lighter version, use half the amount or margarine.
Garlic Cloves – Adds an aromatic flavor base; fresh is best, but powdered is an alternative if in a pinch.
Shallot – Provides a mild onion flavor; red onion can work in its place if needed.
Grated Ginger – Infuses warmth and spice; freshest ginger will offer the best results.
Ground Cumin, Curry Powder, Cayenne Pepper, Ground Turmeric, Ground Coriander – This spice blend adds depth; adjust cayenne based on your heat preference.
Vegetable Broth/Water – Used for deglazing the pan; low-sodium broth or chicken stock can be used as alternatives.
Garam Masala Paste – Adds a warm complexity; can be store-bought or homemade.
Tomato Paste & Crushed Tomatoes – Form the base of the sauce, contributing flavor and texture; fresh tomatoes can also be used when in season.
Cream (20% fat) – Provides the desired creaminess; coconut cream can be a great dairy-free substitute.
Lemon Juice – Adds acidity to lift and balance flavors; lime juice is an effective swap.

For Garnishing

Crushed Chili Flakes – Offers extra heat; adjust to suit your spice preference.
Toasted Cashews – Adds a delightful crunch and texture; you can substitute with peanuts for a different twist.
Chopped Cilantro – Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color; omit if you’re not a fan of cilantro.

Discover how these ingredients come together to create a creamy and satisfying Butter Salmon Curry that you’ll want to make time and again!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Salmon Curry

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon
Start by patting the salmon fillets dry with paper towels; this helps to achieve a crispy sear. Season both sides generously with salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and sweet paprika for a touch of color and flavor. Set your seasoned salmon aside while you prepare the skillet.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet
In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and bubble gently; once it bubbles, you’re ready to add the salmon. The skillet needs to be hot for that perfect sear!

Step 3: Sear the Salmon
Carefully place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes without moving them, until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Then, gently flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily. Remove the salmon and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic, chopped shallot, and grated ginger into the same skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shallots are translucent and softened, filling your kitchen with aromatic goodness.

Step 5: Add the Spices
Once the aromatics are soft, add ground cumin, curry powder, cayenne pepper, ground turmeric, and ground coriander. Stir well to toast the spices for about 1 minute until fragrant; this step enhances their flavor and brings the Butter Salmon Curry to life.

Step 6: Deglaze the Skillet
Pour in ½ cup of vegetable broth, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Next, mix in the garam masala paste and tomato paste until well combined, allowing the mixture to develop a richer color.

Step 7: Create the Creamy Base
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and ½ cup of cream, mixing thoroughly to create a luscious sauce. Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; let it bubble for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Finish the Sauce
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and stir it into the sauce, which will enrich the final dish. Taste and season with additional salt, pepper, or cayenne if desired, ensuring the Butter Salmon Curry is perfectly balanced and flavorful.

Step 9: Return the Salmon
Gently return the seared salmon fillets to the skillet, adding the juice of half a lemon for brightness. Let the salmon simmer in the sauce for another 3-5 minutes over low heat, ensuring it’s heated through and infused with the spiced sauce.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle the Butter Salmon Curry with crushed chili flakes, toasted cashews, and freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Serve this vibrant dish hot with a side of jasmine rice or naan to soak up the creamy sauce.

Butter Salmon Curry Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun and tasty twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream with coconut milk for a tropical flair. This variation adds a light, aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Vegetable Boost: Add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. You’ll bring both color and nutrition to your curry, making it a vibrant centerpiece on the table.
Heat It Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference, or toss in fresh chilies for an extra fiery kick. Not a heat lover? Keep it mild and enjoy the original flavors.
Different Proteins: Swap salmon for shrimp or chicken to mix things up. Each protein will bring its own unique flavor and texture, making this curry adaptable to any palate.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika for a deeper, smokier taste. This small change creates a complex profile that can elevate the dish to new heights.
Herb Variations: Enhance the freshness with herbs like mint or basil instead of cilantro. The unique floral notes will provide a refreshing twist that compliments the creamy sauce beautifully.
Noodle Bowl: Serve the curry over rice noodles instead of jasmine rice for a fun twist. This gives a different texture and makes for an incredibly satisfying meal.
Nutty Addition: Add a spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter to the sauce for added richness and a unique nutty flavor. It’s an unexpected yet delightful addition that will leave your guests guessing!

This dish is just the beginning! Try different variations mentioned here or even create your own unique version. For a delicious meal that is quick and satisfying, you might also love pairing it with Garlic Butter Chicken or trying out the flavors in our Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Butter Salmon Curry

Dry the Salmon: Ensure the salmon skin is completely dry before seasoning to achieve an irresistible crispy sear without sticking.
Use Non-Stick Cookware: A non-stick skillet helps in cooking the salmon to perfection while preventing it from sticking, which aids in maintaining its beautiful crust.
Spice Adjustment: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your personal taste; this Butter Salmon Curry is versatile, and balancing heat can make a big difference!
Taste as You Go: Always sample the sauce before serving; calibrating seasoning can elevate this dish’s overall flavor.
Gentle Reheating: When reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat to avoid drying out the salmon while maintaining the creaminess of the sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Butter Salmon Curry

Fridge: Store leftover Butter Salmon Curry in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking the salmon.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the curry on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture and prevent it from becoming thick.

Tip: The flavors of the Butter Salmon Curry may deepen and become even more delicious after sitting in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Butter Salmon Curry preparations are ideal for busy weeknights! You can season the salmon fillets and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, the creamy sauce can be made in advance and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To prep, sauté the aromatics and add the spices, then combine with the liquids and cool completely before refrigerating. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the sauce over medium-low heat until bubbling, then return the seared salmon and allow it to warm through. This method ensures you enjoy a flavorful, freshly prepared Butter Salmon Curry with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Easy Butter Salmon Curry

There’s something truly magical about creating a full meal around this creamy, aromatic delight that dances on your palate.

Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains beautifully soak up the rich sauce, making every bite indulgent and satisfying.
Warm Naan Bread: Perfect for dipping, naan adds a comforting, chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the curry’s creaminess.
Cucumber Raita: A cool, creamy yogurt-based salad with cucumber helps balance the slight spiciness, refreshing your palate between bites.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs and slight caramelization, they offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
Coconut Chutney: This sweet and savory accompaniment boosts the tropical flair and makes the meal even more tantalizing.
Mango Lassi: A sweet, yogurt-based drink adds a luscious touch of fruitiness that complements the curry’s spices beautifully.
Basmati Rice Salad: With fresh herbs, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of lemon, this light side adds a bright crunch to your meal.
Spicy Lentil Soup: A warm bowl of lentil soup infused with spices enhances the meal’s heartiness and adds another layer of flavor to enjoy.

Butter Salmon Curry Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best salmon for cooking?
Absolutely! Look for salmon fillets that are bright in color and have a fresh, ocean-like smell. The flesh should feel firm, and avoid any that have dark spots or noticeable browning. If possible, purchase wild-caught salmon for superior flavor and quality.

How should I store leftover Butter Salmon Curry?
Store your leftover Butter Salmon Curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating gently is key—use medium-low heat to warm it back up, stirring occasionally to keep the salmon from overcooking. This preserves its delicious flavors and creamy texture.

Can I freeze Butter Salmon Curry?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the curry cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth or cream to retain its creaminess.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your Butter Salmon Curry sauce turns out too thick, not to worry! Simply add a little vegetable broth or cream, a tablespoon at a time, while stirring on low heat. This should help you achieve that creamy consistency you desire without sacrificing flavor.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Certainly! To make this Butter Salmon Curry dairy-free, substitute the cream with coconut cream, which will add a lovely tropical flavor. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for sautéing. Adjust seasonings as needed to maintain that fantastic taste!

Can this dish be made with other proteins?
Very! You can easily swap out salmon for shrimp or chicken in this recipe. If using shrimp, just reduce the cooking time to around 2-3 minutes on each side, since shrimp cook quickly. For chicken, ensure it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.