Easy Salmon Tikka Masala Recipe – Creamy, Spicy & Delicious!

Table of Contents: Salmon Tikka Masala

A Restaurant-Worthy Dish in Under 30 Minutes!

Imagine tender, flaky salmon bathed in a rich, creamy tikka masala sauce—spiced to perfection, with just the right balance of heat and sweetness. This Salmon Tikka Masala is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even impressing guests. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and healthier than takeout!

Did you know that tikka masala, though often associated with chicken, works beautifully with salmon? The buttery texture of salmon soaks up the aromatic spices, creating a dish that’s both luxurious and easy to make. If you love our Creamy Crockpot Chicken Alfredo: The Best Slow-Cooked Comfort Dish, you’ll adore this twist!

Ready to dive into this creamy, spicy, and utterly delicious dish? Let’s get cooking!


Introduction

There’s something magical about a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor—yet comes together in minutes. That’s exactly what this Salmon Tikka Masala delivers!

This recipe takes the classic Indian tikka masala and gives it a seafood twist. Instead of chicken, we use succulent salmon, which stays juicy and absorbs the bold spices beautifully. The result? A restaurant-quality meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

What makes this dish special? It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and foolproof. Even if you’re new to cooking Indian food, this recipe is simple enough to nail on the first try. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce salmon to those who usually stick to meat-based curries.

If you loved our Savory Curry Turkey Meatballs Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Dinner Idea!, you’ll find this just as comforting—but with a luxurious seafood twist. So, grab your apron, and let’s make something delicious!


What is Salmon Tikka Masala?

Ever wondered why it’s called Salmon Tikka Masala? Is it because the salmon gets a royal treatment in a creamy, spiced gravy? Well, sort of!

The name comes from two parts: “tikka” (meaning pieces of meat or fish marinated and grilled) and “masala” (a spiced sauce). Put them together, and you get tender salmon pieces swimming in a luscious, aromatic sauce.

Some say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this dish proves it! Whether you’re cooking for a special someone or just treating yourself, this rich, flavorful curry is a surefire winner.

So, why not skip the takeout and make this at home? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!


Why You’ll Love This Salmon Tikka Masala

1. Restaurant-Quality Flavor at Home – This dish tastes like it came from a high-end Indian restaurant, but it’s made in your kitchen! The creamy, spiced sauce pairs perfectly with the buttery salmon, making every bite irresistible.

2. Budget-Friendly & Healthier Than Takeout – A single takeout order can cost as much as making this dish twice at home! Plus, you control the ingredients—no hidden oils or excessive salt.

3. Customizable & Versatile – Not a fan of too much heat? Adjust the spices! Want extra creaminess? Add a splash of coconut milk. Serve it with naan, rice, or roasted veggies—it’s endlessly adaptable.

If you enjoy this, you’ll love our Delicious Coconut-Miso Salmon Curry Recipe for Cozy Nights for another seafood twist on classic Indian flavors.

Ready to cook? Let’s get started!


How to Make Salmon Tikka Masala

Salmon Tikka Masala
Salmon Tikka Masala

Quick Overview

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Servings: 4

This dish is quick, easy, and foolproof. The salmon stays tender, the sauce is luxuriously creamy, and the spices bring warmth without overwhelming heat.

Key Ingredients

1 lb salmon fillets (cut into chunks)
1 onion (finely chopped)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp ginger (grated)
1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
2 tbsp tikka masala spice blend
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Salmon – Toss salmon chunks with 1 tbsp tikka masala spice, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 5 mins.

2. Sauté Aromatics – Heat oil in a pan, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until soft (3-4 mins).

3. Add Spices – Stir in remaining tikka masala, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 min until fragrant.

4. Simmer the Sauce – Pour in tomato sauce and cream. Let it simmer for 5 mins.

5. Cook the Salmon – Gently add salmon to the sauce. Cook for 5-6 mins until flaky.

6. Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with garam masala and fresh cilantro. Enjoy hot!


What to Serve With Salmon Tikka Masala

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Basmati rice (absorbs the sauce perfectly)
Garlic naan or roti (great for scooping up every last bit)
Cucumber raita (cooling contrast to the spice)
Roasted vegetables (for a low-carb option)


Top Tips for Perfecting Salmon Tikka Masala

Don’t Overcook the Salmon – It should be just flaky, not dry.
Adjust Spice Levels – Add more chili powder if you like it hot.
Use Fresh Spices – They make a huge difference in flavor.
Substitute Dairy – Swap cream with coconut milk for a vegan version.


Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat Gently – Warm on low heat to prevent curdling.
Freeze – Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight before reheating.


People Also Ask: Salmon Tikka Masala

Salmon Tikka Masala
Salmon Tikka Masala

How do you make salmon tikka masala?

Marinate salmon in spices, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger, then simmer with tomato sauce and cream. Add salmon and cook until tender. Garnish and serve!

What are the main spices in salmon tikka masala?

Tikka masala blend, turmeric, garam masala, and paprika are key. They create a warm, aromatic flavor.

Can I use a pre-made tikka masala sauce for salmon?

Yes! Just heat the sauce, add salmon, and simmer. Adjust seasoning as needed.

What sides pair well with salmon tikka masala?

Basmati rice, naan, raita, or roasted veggies are perfect complements.


Conclusion

This Salmon Tikka Masala is a quick, flavorful, and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new twist on curry, this recipe won’t disappoint.

Try it tonight, and let us know how it turns out! And if you loved this, check out our Savory Curry Turkey Meatballs Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Dinner Idea! for another delicious meal.

Happy cooking! 🍽️

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Salmon Tikka Masala

Salmon Tikka Masala


  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 portions 1x

Description

A flavorful Salmon Tikka Masala with tender salmon pieces simmered in a rich, spiced tomato and cream sauce.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 500g salmon fillets, cut into chunks
  • 150g plain yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp tikka masala paste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 400g canned chopped tomatoes
  • 200ml heavy cream
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked basmati rice (to serve)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, marinate the salmon with yogurt, lemon juice, and tikka masala paste. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onion until golden brown.
  3. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Stir in cumin, coriander, paprika, and chili powder, cooking briefly to release aromas.
  5. Add chopped tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
  6. Pour in cream, stir well, and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Add marinated salmon pieces and simmer gently for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.
  8. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with basmati rice.

Notes

For extra flavor, grill or pan-fry the marinated salmon briefly before adding it to the sauce.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 40g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: salmon tikka masala, indian curry, salmon curry, tikka masala