A vibrant South Indian-inspired salmon dish combines the richness of coconut with the zesty kick of chili and lime. Roasted cherry tomatoes and red onions complement the flavourful fish, creating a delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Preparation time
Less than 30 mins
Cooking time
Less than 30 mins
Serves
Serves 2
Dietary
Vegetarian
By Rukmini Iyer
From: India Express: Simple and Delicious Recipes for Every Day
This dish has a balanced nutritional profile with lean protein from salmon, healthy fats from coconut, and vitamins from vegetables. The use of fresh ingredients and minimal added fats contributes to its great Nutri-Score.
Equipment
Ingredients
- Fresh red chilli: 1
- Mint leaves: A handful, plus extra to serve
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Limes: Juice of 2
- Red onion: 1, thinly sliced
- Vine cherry tomatoes: 250g, halved
- Sustainable salmon fillets: 2
- Desiccated coconut: 4 tbsp
- Neutral or olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Sea salt flakes: 1 tsp
Method
Prepare the seasoning
- Preheat the oven to 180°C fan/200°C/gas 6.
- In a spice grinder or high-speed blender, combine coconut, chilli, mint leaves, garlic, lime juice, 1 tablespoon oil, and sea salt.
- Blitz until the chilli is evenly incorporated, creating a reddish-green mixture.
Prepare the dish
- In a medium roasting tin, mix sliced onion and cherry tomatoes with the remaining oil.
- Place salmon fillets skin-side down in the tin.
- Pat a tablespoon of the coconut-chilli mixture over each salmon fillet.
- Scatter the remaining mixture over the onions and tomatoes.
Cook and serve
- Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.
- Scatter with extra mint leaves before serving.
- Serve hot, optionally with rice on the side.
Suggested Wine Pairing
Majestic: Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc
This crisp New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc offers zesty citrus and tropical fruit notes that complement the lime and chilli in the dish. Its bright acidity cuts through the richness of the salmon.
Tesco: Tesco Finest Premier Cru Chablis
A classic Chablis with mineral notes and a hint of citrus. Its clean, crisp profile balances the coconut and spice flavors while enhancing the salmon’s delicate taste.
Sainsbury’s: Taste the Difference Albariño
This Spanish white wine has peach and apricot aromas with a refreshing acidity. It pairs well with the dish’s spicy notes and complements the roasted tomatoes.
What can you serve with this
- Steamed basmati rice: A classic accompaniment that soaks up the flavorful juices from the dish.
- Cucumber raita: The cool yogurt-based side dish balances the spiciness of the salmon.
- Naan bread: Perfect for scooping up the roasted tomatoes and onions.
- Sautéed spinach: Adds a nutritious green element to the meal.
- Mango chutney: Its sweetness complements the spicy and tangy flavors of the dish.
Nutri-score Health Check
This dish receives a Nutri-Score of B, indicating it is a well-balanced meal. The salmon provides high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and fibre. The use of coconut adds healthy fats, but in moderation. The minimal added oil and absence of processed ingredients contribute to its favourable score. However, the salt content should be considered for those monitoring sodium intake. This score has been automatically calculated from the ingredients in the recipe and is only a guide.
Recipe FAQ
- Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?
Thaw frozen salmon completely before using. Pat dry to ensure the seasoning adheres well. - Is there a vegetarian alternative?
Try using firm tofu or paneer instead of salmon. Adjust cooking time accordingly. - How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is moderate. Adjust the amount of chili to your preference. - Can I prepare the seasoning in advance?
Yes, you can make the coconut-chili mixture a day ahead and refrigerate. - What if I don’t have a high-speed blender?
Finely chop the ingredients and mix by hand for a more rustic texture. - Can I use regular tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, cut regular tomatoes into chunks of similar size to cherry tomatoes. - How do I know when the salmon is cooked?
The salmon should flake easily with a fork when done. - Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
Fresh is preferable, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried mint if necessary. - Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. - Can I add other vegetables to the roasting tin?
Bell peppers or zucchini would work well. Add them with the onions and tomatoes. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. - Can I use lime zest in addition to juice?
Adding lime zest will enhance the citrus flavour. Use zest from one lime. - What’s a good non-alcoholic pairing for this dish?
A chilled coconut water or a lime and mint mocktail would complement the flavours well.
