Poached Salmon in Coconut Lime Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that combines creamy coconut, zesty lime, and tender, flaky salmon. This Poached Salmon in Coconut Lime Sauce is the kind of meal that feels like a luxurious treat, yet it comes together so easily that you’ll want to make it part of your regular dinner rotation.

This dish draws inspiration from Southeast Asian flavors, where coconut milk and lime are often paired with fresh seafood to create rich, aromatic curries and stews. The poaching method keeps the salmon incredibly moist, allowing it to absorb all the fragrant goodness from the sauce. If you’re looking for a dish that’s elegant yet effortless, packed with flavor yet light on effort, this is the one for you.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Serve it over jasmine rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy & Quick: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
• Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with protein and omega-3s from the salmon, plus the anti-inflammatory benefits of coconut milk and lime.
• Big, Bold Flavors: The creamy coconut pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes, making every bite an explosion of flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, which is always a win!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 salmon fillets (skinless, about 6 oz each)
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

How to Make Poached Salmon in Coconut Lime Sauce

This dish is incredibly simple to prepare, and the result is a restaurant-worthy meal that’s full of flavor. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Coconut Lime Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the coconut milk. Stir well to combine. Add the fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Poach the Salmon

Season the salmon fillets with a little salt and black pepper, then carefully place them into the simmering sauce. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the salmon poach for 8-10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your fillets.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Once the salmon is perfectly cooked, carefully transfer it to serving plates. Spoon the luscious coconut lime sauce over the fillets, then garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Let the Sauce Boil: Keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and zest make all the difference in this dish, enhancing the bright, citrusy flavors.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, skip the red pepper flakes. If you love spice, feel free to add a sliced chili pepper or extra flakes.
• Check for Doneness: The salmon is done when it easily flakes with a fork. If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 125-130°F for medium doneness.
• Serving Ideas: This dish pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Poaching
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Notes

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it reduce for a couple more minutes before adding the salmon, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the salmon.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~35g
• Carbohydrates: ~8g
• Fat: ~20g
• Fiber: ~1g

(Note: These are approximate values and may vary based on exact ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Salmon?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even poaching.

What Can I Use Instead of Fish Sauce?

If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with extra soy sauce or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a slightly different depth of flavor.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before poaching the salmon.

What Other Fish Can I Use?

This recipe works well with other firm, mild-flavored fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the salmon from drying out.

Freezing: While you can freeze the sauce separately, freezing the poached salmon itself is not recommended as it may become dry when reheated.

Related Recipes

If you loved this Poached Salmon in Coconut Lime Sauce, you might also enjoy:

• Spicy Honey-Glazed Salmon Salad
• Marry Me Salmon: A Dish Worth Falling For
• Easy & Flavorful Salmon Bowl
• Smoked Salmon Bagel – A Classic Brunch Favorite

Conclusion

This Poached Salmon in Coconut Lime Sauce is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a must-try for seafood lovers. With its simple ingredients and effortless cooking method, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

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