Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight

Name: Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1/2 cup plain yogurt; 2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love how the bold flavors of tandoori spices transform a simple salmon fillet into something extraordinary. This Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight recipe combines aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika with zesty yogurt to create a marinade that adds both flavor and moisture to the fish. After trying it several times, I found that letting the salmon marinate for just 30 minutes before cooking yields the best results, resulting in a tender, juicy, and unforgettable dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T14:18:19.229Z

When I first tried making Tandoori Spiced Salmon, I wasn't sure how the bold flavors would complement the fish. After experimenting with the marination time and spice ratios, I discovered that a 30-minute soak creates a harmonious balance between the spices and the salmon, infusing each bite with an incredible depth of flavor.

One trick I learned is to cook the salmon on a grill or a grill pan instead of baking. This not only adds a lovely char but also keeps the salmon moist. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or basmati rice for a complete meal that never fails to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Exotic blend of spices that elevates ordinary salmon.
Quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides for a complete meal.

Understanding Tandoori Spices

The tandoori spice mix is essential to this recipe, providing a robust, smoky flavor that is transformative. This blend typically includes spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, each contributing unique notes. Cumin brings warmth and earthiness, while coriander offers a bright, citrusy backdrop. If you can’t find a pre-made tandoori spice, you can create your own by combining equal parts of these spices with some paprika and turmeric for added color and heat.

The yogurt in the marinade serves a dual purpose: it adds moisture to the salmon while also tenderizing it. The acidity of the yogurt helps to break down the fish’s proteins, resulting in a silky, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using full-fat yogurt will enhance the richness of the dish, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt if you prefer a thicker marinade that clings more effectively to the salmon.

Perfect Grill Timing

Grilling salmon can be tricky, but with the right technique, it’s easy to achieve that perfect flake. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Avoid high flames, as they can char the exterior before the fish is fully cooked. You’ll want to cook the salmon for about 4-5 minutes per side, but keep an eye on it: it’s done when it easily flakes with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

To prevent the salmon from becoming dry, make sure not to overcook it. If you're unsure, you can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, let the salmon rest for a couple of minutes once it's off the grill; this allows the juices to redistribute, enhancing the overall flavor and moisture.

Ingredients

Marinade

1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Salmon

4 salmon fillets (about 6 ounces each)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl for the ultimate flavor boost.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori spice mix, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, and ginger until well combined.

Marinate the Salmon

Add the salmon fillets to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Cook the Salmon

Place the marinated salmon on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Serve

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Enjoy the rich flavors and tantalizing aroma of your Tandoori Spiced Salmon Delight!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, serve with a side of mint yogurt sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions

This Tandoori Spiced Salmon pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a refreshing contrast, a simple cucumber salad dressed with lemon and herbs works beautifully. Alternatively, serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or aromatic quinoa, both of which can soak up the delightful marinade juices. Don’t forget a dollop of yogurt-mint sauce for an extra layer of flavor that complements the spices nicely.

If you're looking to explore additional flavors, consider adding grilled vegetables to your plate. Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be easily tossed on the grill alongside your salmon for a quick and nutritious meal.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover Tandoori Spiced Salmon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or wraps or reheat it gently in the oven. To reheat, preheat your oven to 300°F and place the salmon on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain moisture while preventing it from drying out, unlike microwave reheating.

If you plan to prepare the dish ahead of time, you can marinate the salmon and then freeze it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling. This not only saves time, but the flavors will also intensify as the salmon marinates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of salmon?

Yes, this marinade also works wonderfully with chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can add more yogurt to balance the heat.

→ Can I marinate the salmon overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh salad work great as sides!