Tandoori Salmon

Tandoori Salmon is a vibrant and aromatic dish inspired by traditional Indian tandoori cooking. This recipe features succulent salmon fillets marinated in a blend of yogurt, spices, and citrus, resulting in a flavorful, juicy, and slightly smoky fish. The marinade infuses the salmon with bold flavors while keeping it tender and moist. It’s a quick, healthy, and restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple salmon into a flavor-packed meal with minimal effort. The yogurt-based marinade tenderizes the fish while the aromatic spices create a warming, exotic flavor profile. It’s healthy, protein-rich, and pairs beautifully with rice, naan, or fresh salads. Plus, it makes the kitchen smell amazing while cooking!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Tandoori Salmon is a must-try because it combines bold Indian flavors with an easy cooking method that anyone can master. The dish is visually appealing with its vibrant red-orange hue, incredibly flavorful, and healthy without compromising taste. It’s perfect for those who love seafood but want something more exciting than a simple pan-seared fish.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marination)
• Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Indian-Inspired

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or melted ghee
• 2 tsp garlic paste or minced garlic
• 1 tsp ginger paste or grated ginger
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or lemon wedges for garnish

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prepare Marinade:
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, oil, garlic, ginger, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, and salt.

2. Marinate Salmon:
Pat salmon dry. Coat each fillet with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

3. Preheat Oven or Grill:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill for medium-high heat.

4. Cook Salmon:

• Oven: Place marinated salmon on a lined baking tray. Bake for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
• Grill: Grill salmon for 5–6 minutes per side until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

5. Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lemon wedges.

How to Serve

• Serve over steamed basmati rice or jeera rice
• Pair with naan, roti, or a light cucumber salad
• Drizzle with extra lemon juice for brightness
• Add a side of raita or yogurt dip

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook salmon; it should be tender and flaky
• Adjust chili powder for preferred spice level
• For extra flavor, sear on high heat for a smoky effect before baking
• Use full-fat yogurt for a richer marinade
• Let the fish rest 5 minutes before serving

Variations

1. Spicy Tandoori Salmon: Increase chili powder or add fresh green chilies
2. Tandoori Salmon Skewers: Cut salmon into cubes and skewer with vegetables
3. Coconut Yogurt Marinade: Use coconut yogurt for a subtle tropical flavor
4. Air Fryer Version: Cook salmon at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes
5. Tandoori Salmon Salad: Serve flaked salmon over greens with a yogurt drizzle

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store cooked salmon in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Freeze marinated uncooked salmon for up to 1 month; thaw before cooking
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to avoid drying

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Baking tray or grill
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or spoon

Conclusion

Tandoori Salmon is a flavorful, healthy, and impressive dish that brings the vibrant tastes of India to your dinner table. With a fragrant yogurt and spice marinade, perfectly cooked salmon, and simple accompaniments, it’s a meal that’s quick, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknights, special dinners, or entertaining guests, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone craving bold, exotic flavors.