Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas

Name: Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 300g pasta (such as fusilli or penne); 150g frozen peas; 500g fresh salmon fillet; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 200ml coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cheesy Food | Pasta & Melt

I absolutely love this Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas! The blend of flavors from the curry and salmon creates a dish that's not only unique but also incredibly satisfying. The peas add a pop of sweetness and color, making this not just a feast for the taste buds but for the eyes as well. Cooking it is a breeze, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Created by

The Chefkarlcooks Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:56:28.911Z

When I first stumbled upon the combination of curry and salmon, I was a bit skeptical but curious. I decided to give it a try, and I was pleasantly surprised! The warmth of the curry adds depth to the richness of the salmon, and it pairs beautifully with the pasta. I’ve experimented with different types of curry powder, and I’ve found that using a mild curry powder allows the flavors to shine without overpowering the dish.

Another key moment for me was discovering the timing of adding the peas. By adding them towards the end of the cooking process, I ensured they remained vibrant and tender yet firm. This little tip makes all the difference, adding a fresh burst of flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A delightful fusion of curry and salmon that’s both savory and satisfying
Quick cooking time makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option
Peas add a refreshing sweetness and vibrant color to the dish

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a great Curried Salmon Pasta lies in the quality of your ingredients. Fresh salmon fillet is essential for this dish, as it imparts a buttery texture and rich flavor. If fresh isn’t available, good quality frozen salmon can work too, but ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking. The combination of coconut milk and curry powder creates a creamy and aromatic sauce that envelops the pasta beautifully, while frozen peas add a natural sweetness and a pop of color that brightens up the dish.

Don't overlook the importance of seasoning, either. As the salmon cooks, it will absorb the flavors from the sautéed onion and garlic, so be generous with your salt and pepper. A pinch of each can elevate the entire dish. If you find that your curry flavor isn't as pronounced as you’d like after adding the coconut milk, consider adjusting with a bit more curry powder or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for an extra zing.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the pasta perfectly is crucial for this dish. Aim for al dente texture, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Ensure your water is well-salted (think sea water) before adding the pasta; this is your chance to infuse flavor directly into the noodles. The last two minutes of boiling with the peas ensures they retain their vibrant green color and sweetness. If you accidentally overcook the pasta, there's no need to fret; a quick rinse with cold water can halt the cooking process and prevent mushiness.

When combining the pasta with the sauce, use tongs or a pasta fork to gently toss everything together. This helps maintain the integrity of the pasta while ensuring the sauce clings nicely. If you find the sauce is too thick, adding a small amount of the reserved pasta water helps loosen it. The starch in the water not only adjusts the consistency but also helps the sauce adhere better to the pasta.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

300g pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
150g frozen peas
500g fresh salmon fillet
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
200ml coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas. Drain the pasta and peas, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Prepare the Salmon

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the fresh salmon, breaking it into chunks and cooking until it's slightly browned.

Add Curry and Coconut Milk

Stir in the curry powder, mixing well for about a minute. Then pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta and peas to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Enjoy your delicious Curried Salmon Pasta!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped red chili to the curry mixture. Additionally, using leftover salmon works wonderfully in this dish!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Curried Salmon Pasta can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to restore some creaminess. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to rubbery salmon.

If you're looking to enjoy this dish later, consider cooking the pasta and sauce separately. Keep the pasta stored in one container and the salmon curry in another. This way, you can avoid the pasta soaking up too much sauce, which can lead to a dry texture upon reheating.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to customize the vegetable component of this dish! Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas can make for excellent substitutes or additions to the frozen peas. For a bit of heat, toss in some diced fresh chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper when adding the curry powder. If you're looking for a lighter version, swap out the coconut milk for low-fat yogurt, stirring it in just before serving to maintain creaminess without the extra calories.

For those avoiding gluten, simply replace the pasta with a gluten-free variety such as brown rice pasta or quinoa. Both options will still blend well with the sauce and maintain the dish's overall character. With these substitutions, you can create a plate that's tailored to your dietary preferences while still enjoying the unique flavors of curried salmon.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

→ What type of curry powder should I use?

I recommend using a mild curry powder to allow the salmon flavor to shine through. Adjust to your taste preference!

→ Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Canned salmon is a great alternative, and it will cut down on prep time.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.