When it comes to cooking fish, many people can be intimidated by the delicate nature of this protein. However, with a few simple techniques and flavorful ingredients, you can create a variety of delicious fish dishes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these 20 mouth-watering fish recipes have got you covered.
From classic baked salmon to spicy Thai curry, crispy fish tacos to smoky tuna poke bowls, there’s something for every palate and skill level on this list. And with many of the recipes requiring fewer than 30 minutes of active cooking time, you can easily fit them into your busy schedule.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these tasty fish dishes, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and tips needed to bring out their full flavor and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of fish recipes, you won’t want to miss this.
Garlic Butter Baked Salmon
Savor the rich flavors of garlic and butter on flaky salmon fillets, baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
5. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Add a zesty twist to your taco Tuesday with this flavorful recipe that combines crispy fish, tangy lime crema, and crunchy slaw. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lime crema (see below)
– Slaw (see below)
– Tortillas, warmed
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– 1 tablespoon lime zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip fish pieces into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry coated fish in hot oil until crispy (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble tacos with fried fish, lime crema, slaw, and desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Tilapia
This refreshing summer recipe brings together the brightness of lemon and herbs to elevate the flavor of grilled tilapia. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place tilapia fillets in a shallow dish and brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Thai Fish Curry
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Thai fish curry, featuring succulent fish cooked in a rich and aromatic coconut-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry paste; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add fish, coconut milk, water, fish sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Pan-Seared Halibut with Mango Salsa
Experience the perfect balance of savory and sweet with this recipe that combines succulent pan-seared halibut with a refreshing mango salsa. The crispy exterior of the fish pairs perfectly with the juicy, tropical flavors of the mango.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear halibut for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. While fish is cooking, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Serve pan-seared halibut with mango salsa spooned over the top. Offer lime wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Blackened Catfish with Cajun Spices
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this simple and flavorful blackened catfish recipe. A perfect blend of spices and a crispy crust will elevate your dinner game.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place catfish fillets on a plate or tray.
4. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the catfish.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add catfish to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until blackened.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Cod with Sesame Seeds
A sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish featuring flaky cod, sticky teriyaki glaze, and crunchy sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Brush cod fillets with vegetable oil and season with salt.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
5. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush with the teriyaki glaze.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the cod fillets.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Baked Sea Bass
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of sea bass with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, resulting in a deliciously moist and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 sea bass fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the sea bass fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle garlic, oregano, and paprika evenly among the fillets.
5. Arrange lemon slices on top of each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish and Chips with Homemade Tartar Sauce
Get ready for a comforting treat that’s sure to become a family favorite! This recipe combines crispy, golden fish and chips with a tangy homemade tartar sauce that will elevate your snack game.
Ingredients:
For the Fish and Chips:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh lemon wedges, for serving
For the Homemade Tartar Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge fish pieces in the mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the tartar sauce, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
6. Serve fish and chips hot with homemade tartar sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Crusted Mahi-Mahi
Experience the tropical flavors of Hawaii with this simple and delicious recipe for Coconut Crusted Mahi-Mahi.
Ingredients:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp coconut milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together coconut milk, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Dip each mahi-mahi fillet into the coconut milk mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Roll the moistened fish in the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and enjoy!
Grilled Swordfish with Chimichurri
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet impressive recipe for grilled swordfish, paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and red wine vinegar.
3. Whisk in olive oil until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill swordfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve each steak topped with chimichurri sauce.
6. Cooking time: approximately 12-15 minutes.
One-Pot Spanish Fish Stew
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple of Spanish cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in with friends or family. With just one pot to clean, this recipe is also incredibly convenient.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the fish, diced tomatoes, fish broth, white wine (if using), smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Haddock
Elevate your seafood game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan Crusted Haddock recipe. A simple yet impressive dish that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season haddock fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Dip each fillet in olive oil, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated haddock on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crispy.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Asian-Style Steamed Whole Fish
Savor the delicate flavors of this steamed whole fish dish, infused with the aromas of ginger and scallions.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole fish (2-3 lbs), cleaned and scaled
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 4-6 scallions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fish under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a steamer basket, combine ginger, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
3. Place the fish on top of the aromatics in the steamer basket.
4. Steam the fish over boiling water for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with steamed vegetables and your choice of side dishes.
Cooking Time: 30-45 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Quiche
This quiche is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend brunch. The combination of smoky salmon, fresh dill, and creamy eggs will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula and spinach)
– 6 ounces smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange mixed greens on the pie crust, followed by flaked salmon and chopped dill.
5. Pour egg mixture over the filling, then dot with melted butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna Poke Bowl with Avocado
A refreshing and protein-packed bowl that combines the flavors of tuna, avocado, and Asian-inspired seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach) for serving
– Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the tuna cubes to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Just before serving, slice the avocado into thin pieces.
4. Assemble the bowls by placing a scoop of tuna on top of mixed greens, followed by sliced avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Easy Fish Cakes with Remoulade
Experience the simplicity of preparing delicious fish cakes at home, paired with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillet, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Cook fish cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Serve warm with remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Scallops
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the richness of butter to create a succulent and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse scallops under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Add lemon juice to the butter mixture and stir to combine.
5. Place scallops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top each scallop with a spoonful of the lemon-garlic butter mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until scallops are cooked through and opaque.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Sardines with Lemon and Herbs
A classic Mediterranean-inspired dish that showcases the delicate flavor of sardines, enhanced by the brightness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 sardines (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse sardines under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
4. Place sardines on the grill, skin side down (if using fresh). Brush both sides with the lemon mixture.
5. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until sardines are cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Simple Poached White Fish in Broth
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful white fish dish with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this poached fish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ounces white fish fillet (such as cod, tilapia, or sole)
– 2 cups fish broth
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized saucepan with the fish broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced lemon and parsley sprigs to the broth for added flavor.
3. Place the white fish fillet in the broth, making sure it is fully submerged.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the fish poach for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the broth with a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to reel in some flavor with these 20 delicious fish recipes! From classic dishes like Garlic Butter Baked Salmon and Pan-Seared Halibut with Mango Salsa, to international twists like Spicy Thai Fish Curry and Teriyaki Glazed Cod with Sesame Seeds, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special meal for a crowd, these recipes will hook you from start to finish.
