Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas

Name: Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (like penne or fusilli); 150g fresh or frozen peas; 250g salmon fillet, skin removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 200ml coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh coriander for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Day | Fast Kitchen

I absolutely love how this Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas combines unique flavors to create a delightful dish. The rich curry spices blend beautifully with the freshness of the peas and the succulent salmon, resulting in a meal that feels both indulgent and healthy. It's surprisingly quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is a fantastic way to shake up your pasta routine and impress your family or friends with minimal effort.

Created by

The Sarahsfoodlab Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T14:18:27.845Z

When I first experimented with combining curry and pasta, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld together. To my delight, the vibrant spices added a new dimension to the dish and elevated the salmon to a whole new level. I discovered that a touch of coconut milk balances the heat perfectly, creating a creamy sauce that clings to every noodle.

One tip I’d recommend is to use fresh or frozen peas, as they add a pop of color and sweetness that complements the curry's warmth. Not only does this recipe taste amazing, but it’s also a great way to incorporate omega-3s into your diet!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The aromatic curry spicing gives a delightful twist to a classic pasta dish.
The creaminess from the coconut milk is utterly satisfying.
Fresh peas add bursts of sweetness, making every bite enjoyable.

Key Techniques for Perfect Salmon

When cooking the salmon, maintaining the right temperature is crucial. Start with medium heat to gently cook the fish, preventing it from drying out. Covering the pan helps to retain moisture and allows the salmon to steam slightly, resulting in a tender, flaky texture. If you're unsure about doneness, the salmon should flake easily with a fork and appear opaque throughout.

Another helpful tip is to use a non-stick frying pan, which prevents the salmon from sticking to the surface, ensuring a clean flip or removal. Additionally, you can check for doneness by using a cooking thermometer; the thickest part of the salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Flavor and Ingredient Roles

The choice of curry powder significantly influences the dish's overall flavor. Different blends can range in spice and depth, so consider your preferences. If you desire a bit more heat, adding a pinch of cayenne or some chili powder can elevate the warmth without overpowering the other flavors. It's also worth experimenting with different curry blends to find the one that best suits your palate.

Fresh peas not only provide sweetness but also a slight crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you don’t have fresh peas, frozen ones are an excellent substitute, providing similar taste and texture. However, avoid overcooking them; just ensure they are heated through when added to the pasta in the last few minutes of cooking.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of coconut milk to regain creaminess. The flavors meld beautifully when stored overnight, making it a great option for meal prep. However, I recommend storing the salmon separately if you plan to freeze it, as the texture may change upon thawing.

For serving, consider pairing this dish with a light, fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of lime juice right before serving can brighten all the flavors in the dish, enhancing the taste of the curry and coconut milk.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta (like penne or fusilli)
150g fresh or frozen peas
250g salmon fillet, skin removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
200ml coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the peas. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Salmon

In a frying pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Curry and Coconut Milk

Sprinkle the curry powder into the pan and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in the sauce and cover. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Combine and Serve

Add the drained pasta and peas into the pan, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Pro Tips

If you want to enhance the dish, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe easily scales up or down depending on your needs. For a larger gathering, simply double the ingredients and use a larger pan to accommodate everything. Just be mindful of the cooking times and heat levels; if you overcrowd the pan, the salmon may not cook evenly. Similarly, you can halve the recipe if cooking for one or two; this dish reheats well, so feel free to prepare leftovers.

For less complex dishes, consider reducing the amount of curry powder or coconut milk if you prefer a milder flavor. This will help maintain the balance of the ingredients without overwhelming the dish. Just ensure to keep the pasta-to-sauce ratio consistent for the best results.

Variation Ideas

While the recipe as is provides a wonderful combination of flavors, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. These can be sautéed along with the onions for a vibrant twist. Alternatively, you might incorporate some diced tomatoes, which will add acidity and freshness to the sauce.

For a twist on the protein, try substituting the salmon with shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Both options cook quickly and can soak up the flavors of the curry, making them excellent alternatives that still deliver a satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon?

Yes, frozen salmon works just as well! Just ensure it's thawed completely before cooking.

→ What type of pasta do you recommend?

Penne and fusilli are great options as they hold the sauce well, but you can use any pasta you like.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and salmon ahead of time. Just cook the pasta right before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free alternative.