Ingredients
For the Salmon:
- 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each), skin on or off
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Coconut Curry Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste (adjust to taste)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of ½ lime
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh cilantro or basil, for garnish
For Serving (Optional):
- Steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice
- Lime wedges
- Sliced red chili or red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep the Salmon
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, curry powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil to form a rub. Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet and coat evenly with the spice rub. - Bake the Salmon
Bake for 8-12 minutes, depending on thickness, until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork (internal temperature should reach 145°F). Remove from oven and set aside. - Start the Coconut Curry Sauce
While the salmon bakes, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. - Build the Curry Base
Add the brown sugar and Thai red curry paste to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes to activate the spices. The paste will become deeply aromatic. - Add Coconut Milk and Seasonings
Pour in the full can of coconut milk, followed by the soy sauce and lime zest. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. - Wilt the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Finish with the juice of half a lime, stirring to incorporate. - Combine and Serve
To serve, place a portion of steamed rice in each bowl. Top with a baked salmon fillet and generously spoon the coconut curry sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil, a lime wedge, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red curry paste to suit your heat preference. Start with 1 tablespoon for mild heat, or use 2 tablespoons for a spicier kick.
- Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates the richest, creamiest sauce. For a lighter version, use “light” coconut milk, though the sauce will be thinner.
- Make It Your Own: Add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the sauce along with the spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftover salmon and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce to keep this recipe gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking & Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai-Inspired / Asian
- Diet: Gluten-Free
