Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight

Name: Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1 teaspoon turmeric; 1 teaspoon garam masala; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each); Fresh cilantro for garnish; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’ve recently been experimenting with bold flavors in my kitchen, and Tandoori spiced salmon has become a delightful favorite in our home. The vibrant spices, including paprika and cumin, create a mouthwatering aroma and make for a stunning presentation. Paired with lemon and yogurt, the dish brings out the best in salmon, transforming a simple meal into an exotic feast. In just a little time, I can serve up a dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T13:42:19.008Z

When I first tried making Tandoori Spiced Salmon, I was amazed at how quickly it came together and how deeply flavorful it was. I grilled the salmon to perfection, allowing the spices to form a delicious crust. The yogurt marinade was a game-changer, ensuring the fish remained tender and juicy while infusing it with complex flavors.

Since then, I’ve tried various sides, but the freshness of a cucumber salad always complements the spices beautifully. I also learned that letting the salmon marinate for at least 30 minutes really enhances the flavor, so I make sure to plan ahead or prepare it the night before for busy weeknights.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A burst of warm spices that awaken your senses
Fast preparation makes it an easy weeknight dinner
Healthy and delicious, perfect for the whole family

Unlocking the Flavor Profiles

The key to achieving that authentic Tandoori flavor lies in the marinade's spices. Each spice, from the smoky paprika to the earthy cumin, plays a vital role in building depth and complexity. The yogurt not only tenderizes the salmon but also acts as a carrier for these spices, helping them penetrate the fish. As it marinades, the salmon absorbs the vibrant flavors, making each bite a delightful burst of taste. Letting it sit for at least 30 minutes is crucial; however, marinating it for up to 2 hours will elevate the dish even further.

The medley of spices, including garam masala and turmeric, not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful color to the salmon when grilled. You’ll want to look for a bright orange-red hue on the fish, indicating a proper sear has been achieved. If you prefer a milder taste, you can adjust the amount of paprika or cumin in the marinade, making the dish customizable based on your spice tolerance. This flexibility makes it suitable for families with varying palates.

Perfect Grilling Techniques

When grilling, it’s important to ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat. This helps in achieving those perfect grill marks and prevents the salmon from sticking. If using a non-stick grill pan, mist it lightly with oil before placing the salmon. Cook the fillets skin-side down first; the skin not only protects the flesh but also becomes incredibly crispy and delicious. I recommend using a fish spatula here—it’s designed to make flipping fish much easier without losing any flavor.

Be attentive while grilling to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the salmon. Check for doneness by gently flaking the fish with a fork at the thickest part. It should be opaque and easily pull apart. If your salmon fillets are thicker than 6 oz, consider adjusting your cooking time. After the initial 6-8 minutes on one side, keep an eye on it as you flip, ensuring it doesn’t go beyond 12-14 minutes total cooking time for the perfect texture.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the Tandoori spiced salmon.

For the Marinade

1 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving

Ensure everything is at room temperature before you start cooking for the best results.

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create the delicious Tandoori spiced salmon.

Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.

Marinate the Salmon

Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each fillet is coated well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).

Grill the Salmon

Remove the salmon from the marinade and place the fillets skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Transfer the grilled salmon to a serving platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy this dish with a refreshing cucumber salad or warm naan for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, you can char the salmon for a minute longer on each side. Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder according to your taste.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Tandoori spiced salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its flavor and texture, it’s best not to freeze the cooked salmon, as the texture can change significantly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, use it within a month for the best quality. When reheating, consider gently warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

For quick lunches, try flaking leftover salmon into a salad for a refreshing meal. The spicy marinade complements fresh greens well, so add ingredients like cucumber, tomato, and a light vinaigrette to enhance the dish. You can also use it in wraps with hummus and lettuce, giving you a flavorful and healthy option.

Serving Suggestions

This Tandoori spiced salmon pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy basmati rice or quinoa, as they provide a wonderful contrast to the rich spices. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh cucumber raita to cool down the heat. I love adding a squeeze of lemon over the dish just before serving—this brightens up the flavors and brings vibrancy to the plate.

For a more extravagant meal, consider preparing sides such as saffron-infused rice or a traditional Indian naan bread, which complements the bold flavors. If you're hosting dinner guests, arrange the salmon on a large platter, garnishing with fresh cilantro and lemon wedges for an eye-catching presentation that will impress everyone at the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen salmon for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before marinating.

→ How long can I marinate the salmon?

For the best flavor, marinate the salmon for at least 30 minutes, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.

→ What can I serve with Tandoori spiced salmon?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, rice, or even flatbreads like naan.

→ Can I bake the salmon instead?

Absolutely, just place it on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes.