Mediterranean-Caribbean Style Coconut Curry Salmon
This dish combines the bold, tropical flavors of the Caribbean with the light, fresh touch of the Mediterranean. Tender salmon fillets are simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce infused with garlic, lime, bell peppers, and herbs — creating a dish that’s rich yet balanced.
⏱️ Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salmon:
4 salmon fillets (about 150g each)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
For the Coconut Curry Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat for richness)
1 tsp curry powder (mild or medium)
½ tsp cumin
Juice of ½ lime (plus extra for serving)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
(Optional Mediterranean twist: add ½ cup cherry tomatoes and a handful of baby spinach for freshness.)
Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Salmon
1. Pat salmon fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and turmeric.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Sear salmon for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Coconut Curry Sauce
1. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add sliced bell pepper and cook another 2 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder and cumin, then pour in the coconut milk.
5. Add lime juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
3. Combine and Simmer
1. Return the salmon fillets to the skillet.
2. Spoon sauce over the top and let simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until salmon is cooked through and flaky.
3. Add spinach or cherry tomatoes if using, and let them wilt in the sauce.
4. Serve
Serve warm with herbed rice, couscous, or lemon quinoa. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lime.
Serving Suggestion
Pair with:
- Coconut rice or lemon herb couscous
- Grilled zucchini or roasted carrots
- Simple cucumber yogurt salad for a cooling side
Notes & Tips
You can substitute salmon with cod, halibut, or shrimp.
For extra Mediterranean flavor, drizzle a touch of olive oil and sprinkle feta just before serving.
For a spicier Caribbean kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Frequently asked questions FAQ
Q: Can I make this dairy-free or lighter?
Yes — it’s naturally dairy-free. For a lighter version, use light coconut milk and grill the salmon instead of simmering it.
Q: How can I meal prep this?
Cook the sauce and salmon separately, then combine when reheating to keep the salmon tender.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~470 kcal
Protein: 34g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g