Are you tired of the same old boring fish recipes? Look no further! Red fish, also known as tilapia or snapper, is a versatile and delicious protein that can be cooked in a variety of ways. From pan-seared to grilled, baked to fried, there’s a method to suit every taste. And when it comes to flavor, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll explore 18 simple yet mouthwatering red fish recipes that will elevate your cooking game and impress your friends and family.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes have got you covered. From classic dishes like pan-seared red fish with lemon butter sauce to innovative creations like grilled red fish tacos with mango salsa, there’s something for everyone. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of red fish cuisine!
Pan-Seared Red Fish with Lemon Butter Sauce
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist red fish dish, elevated by a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the fish fillets and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the fish with salt and pepper.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and let melt. Place the fish in the skillet, skin side up (if it has skin). Cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
5. Flip the fish and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
7. In a small saucepan, combine lemon juice, garlic, and parsley. Simmer over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve the pan-seared red fish with the warm lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Red Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this refreshing recipe that combines succulent grilled red fish, crispy tacos, and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 red snapper fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Place fish fillets in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Let marinate for 15 minutes.
4. Grill fish for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled fish, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Red Fish with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the simplicity of a classic fish dish, all while showcasing the tender flaky texture of red fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 red fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Butter, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the fish fillets on it.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in chicken broth until tender.
6. Drain potatoes and mash with butter (if using) and garlic.
7. Serve the Cajun-spiced red fish with garlic mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Fish Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the bold flavors of red fish with the brightness of lime and the freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red fish, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to distribute the flavors evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
4. Just before serving, season with salt to taste.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Baked Red Fish with Herb Crust
This recipe showcases the natural flavors of red fish, paired with a fragrant herb crust that adds depth and complexity to this simple yet impressive dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 red fish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
4. Season red fish fillets with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil on the baking sheet.
6. Place red fish fillets on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Sprinkle herb crust mixture evenly over each fillet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Fish Chowder with Sweet Corn
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tender red fish, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as snapper or grouper), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup fish stock (or chicken broth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add red fish pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until opaque.
3. Stir in sweet corn kernels, potato, milk, and fish stock.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Red Fish Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry dish combines tender red fish with a rich and creamy coconut milk-based sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add fish and cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Fish en Papillote with Vegetables
Red Fish en Papillote with Vegetables: A flavorful and moist seafood dish cooked to perfection in a parchment paper packet.
Ingredients:
– 4 red fish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini.
3. Place a fish fillet on each of four sheets of parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the fish packets, placing it on top of the fish.
5. Drizzle white wine and water over the vegetables, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the parchment paper into a packet, creating a sealed pouch.
7. Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Fish Po’ Boy Sandwich
A classic New Orleans-style sandwich that combines the flavors of spicy red fish, crispy lettuce, and tangy remoulade sauce on toasted French bread. This recipe is a twist on the traditional po’ boy, featuring flaky red fish instead of shrimp or oysters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup remoulade sauce
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1 cup crispy fried okra
– 1 baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Dredge the fish pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Fry the fish in hot oil (about 350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until cooked through.
3. Assemble the sandwich by spreading remoulade sauce on toasted baguette, then adding fried fish, mixed greens, red onion, and crispy okra.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Fish Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
This spicy and savory stir-fry is a flavorful twist on traditional Chinese cuisine, featuring tender red fish cooked with aromatic ginger and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb red fish (such as tilapia or snapper), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the fish pieces; cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to flake apart.
4. Add the soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until the fish is cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Fish Risotto with Saffron
This recipe combines the rich flavors of red fish, saffron-infused risotto, and a hint of Mediterranean spices to create a stunning seafood dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb red fish (such as snapper or grouper), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp hot water
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add red fish and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pot, combine Arborio rice and warmed chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook according to package instructions.
5. Stir in saffron and its liquid, then add white wine (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Combine cooked risotto with the red fish mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Fish Stew with Tomatoes and Olives
This hearty stew is a Mediterranean-inspired delight, perfect for a cozy night in. Flaky red fish, tender vegetables, and briny olives come together in a flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb red fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into chunks
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, thyme, and paprika; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fish, tomatoes, olives, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let stew for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Red Fish Burgers with Avocado Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this mouthwatering combination of succulent red fish, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 red fish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season red fish with salt and pepper.
3. Coat fish with panko breadcrumbs.
4. Grill fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon slices in a skillet until crispy.
6. In a separate bowl, mix mashed avocado with garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Assemble burgers by placing grilled fish on buns, topping with bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and a dollop of avocado aioli.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Fish Kebabs with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Add a tropical twist to your grilling routine with this flavorful recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings. Succulent red fish, sweet pineapple, and crunchy bell peppers come together in a delightful kebab that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch strips
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite kebab seasonings or a squeeze of fresh lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread fish, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until fish is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with your favorite toppings or sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Red Fish Pasta with Creamy Garlic Sauce
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe combines tender red fish with a rich and creamy garlic sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as snapper or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add red fish pieces to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and creamy garlic sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Fish Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the sweetness of citrus with the boldness of red fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red snapper or tilapia, cooked and flaked
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and flaked fish.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together citrus vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (assuming cooked fish)
Red Fish Gumbo with Andouille Sausage
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the rich flavors of red fish, spicy andouille sausage, and hearty okra for a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb red fish (such as red snapper or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 cups fish stock (or chicken broth)
– Filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, okra, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add fish stock (or chicken broth) and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let gumbo cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and filé powder if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Fish Jerky with Spicy Marinade
Elevate your snacking game with this bold and zesty red fish jerky recipe, featuring a spicy marinade that will leave you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound red fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, hot sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add the fish strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the fish from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Bake the fish for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of red fish with these 18 deliciously simple recipes! From pan-seared perfection with lemon butter sauce to grilled tacos with mango salsa, and from cajun-spiced goodness with garlic mashed potatoes to baked beauty with herb crust, there’s something for every taste. Explore international inspirations like coconut milk curry or saffron risotto, or stick closer to home with classic chowder or po’ boy sandwiches. Whatever your craving, these recipes will hook you into the world of red fish culinary delights.
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