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: 250g pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 salmon fillets, skinless and boneless; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon curry powder; 100ml coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh coriander for garnish

Highlighted under: Asian Styles

I love creating dishes that bring a burst of flavor and color to the table, and this Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas does just that! The blend of spices in the curry creates a warm and inviting aroma while the peas add a delightful pop of sweetness. I enjoy how quickly this meal comes together, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even fancy enough for company. The combination of salmon and pasta is not only satisfying but also packs a healthy punch with omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making it a new favorite in our household.

Created by

The Chefivanrecipes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:51:28.397Z

When I first decided to make Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas, it was more about experimenting with flavors than anything else. I knew I wanted to incorporate salmon, but the addition of curry powder completely transformed this dish. It’s amazing how just a teaspoon of curry can elevate the taste profile to something extraordinary. Plus, the bright green peas provide a lovely contrast in color as well as texture!

As I combined the cooked pasta with the salmon and vibrant peas, I realized that this dish is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. I love how the simple ingredients harmonize, and using fresh herbs or just a squeeze of lemon at the end brings it all together. It's easy to prepare, and often I find myself making it on repeat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The creamy curry sauce brings a delightful twist to traditional pasta.
Packed with protein from the salmon, making it a nutritious choice.
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight meals!

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Curried Salmon Pasta with Peas, the quality of your ingredients can greatly affect the final outcome. Using fresh salmon fillets is key; they should be slightly moist and have a rich color without any off smells. If you can, choose good quality, sustainably sourced salmon for the best flavor and texture. Frozen peas are a great convenience, but opt for those that are bright green and firm, which will provide a sweet pop of flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

The onion and garlic form the aromatic base of the dish. Cooking them until they are light and translucent activates their natural sugars, which will enhance the sauce's depth. Be cautious not to brown them too much, as this can impart a bitter flavor instead of the desired sweetness. Fresh coriander as a garnish not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the dish with its bright, citrusy notes, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.

Timing and Technique for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the pasta to al dente is crucial in this dish, as it will continue to cook slightly once combined with the sauce. Follow the package instructions but start checking for doneness a couple of minutes early. Aim for pasta that is tender but has a slight bite; this ensures it holds its shape when mixed with the salmon and curry sauce. Drain the pasta well, but make sure to reserve a cup of pasta water; this starchy liquid can be used to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

While preparing the sauce, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the aromatics. Once you add the coconut milk and curry powder, stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and well combined. This not only ensures even flavor distribution but also helps the sauce thicken slightly as it cooks. If the sauce feels too thick after adding the flour, gradually incorporate a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking process.

Ingredients

250g pasta (penne or fusilli)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 salmon fillets, skinless and boneless
1 cup frozen peas
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon curry powder
100ml coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh coriander for garnish

Make sure to measure out your ingredients for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and tools before diving into the cooking process.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Salmon

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the salmon fillets and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and flake into large pieces.

Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until translucent. Stir in curry powder, then pour in coconut milk, mixing well. Add the frozen peas and flaked salmon.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious meal with a side salad for added freshness!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute the salmon with chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Fresh herbs like basil or mint can also enhance the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Curried Salmon Pasta pairs wonderfully with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal, enhancing the nutritional profile with added fiber and vitamins. Another option is to plate it in shallow bowls, topped with an extra sprinkle of fresh coriander and a wedge of lime for an additional zesty touch.

For a touch of heat, consider adding thinly sliced red chili or a dash of chili flakes to the sauce. This not only enhances the flavor dynamics but provides an enticing warmth that plays well with the coconut milk. Alternatively, if you're looking for a milder version, try omitting the curry powder entirely and substituting it with a few fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, cook the pasta and the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you're ready to eat, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, adding reserved pasta water slowly until it reaches the desired consistency, then toss in the pasta and heat through. This method helps the flavors meld beautifully without compromising the texture of the ingredients.

For longer storage, you can freeze the curried salmon sauce separately from the pasta. Place the cooled sauce in a freezer-safe container and it should keep for up to three months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating. Be mindful that the texture of the salmon may change slightly after freezing, but the dish will still be flavorful and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh salmon instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh salmon works wonderfully and can be cooked in the same manner.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli would be great additions to this recipe.