20 Simple Easy Fish Recipes Flavorful

When it comes to cooking fish, many people get stuck in a rut – overcooking it, serving it plain and boring, or struggling to find inspiration. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with this collection of 20 simple yet flavorful fish recipes that will take your cooking game to the next level. From classic cod and salmon dishes to more adventurous options like coconut curry fish stew and fish tacos with mango salsa, we’ve gathered a diverse range of recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

In this article, we’ll explore some of our favorite easy fish recipes that won’t break the bank or require hours of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. So dive in and discover the delicious world of fish cooking!

Garlic Butter Baked Cod

A flavorful and moist cod recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This garlic butter baked cod is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon zest.
4. Place the cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Brighten up your meal with this refreshing Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon recipe! Flaky salmon fillets are infused with a zesty lemon-herb marinade, then grilled to perfection for a flavorful and healthy dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon 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 large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Add salmon fillets to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove salmon from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-18 minutes

Panko Crusted Tilapia

This recipe yields a deliciously light and crispy tilapia dish with a flavorful panko crust, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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 lemon zest.
3. Dip each tilapia fillet in olive oil, coating both sides evenly, then coat in breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tilapia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and crust is golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Fish Skillet

Get ready for a bold and spicy twist on traditional shrimp and fish, with this easy-to-make skillet dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and fish; cook for 3-4 minutes, until pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked shrimp and fish back to the skillet; stir to combine with the spicy mixture.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

One-Pan Mediterranean Fish Bake

Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and effortless one-pan dish, featuring succulent fish, aromatic spices, and a burst of Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Arrange fish fillets on top of onions, followed by cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, oregano, and lemon zest.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until fish is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Easy Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this refreshing twist on traditional fish tacos. Flaky fish, crunchy slaw, and a sweet and spicy mango salsa come together for a flavorful and easy meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Mango salsa (recipe below)
– Slaw: 1 cup shredded red cabbage, 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons lime juice

Mango Salsa:

– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and lime juice.
3. Dip fish fillets in breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Assemble tacos by placing fish on tortillas, topping with slaw and mango salsa.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Teriyaki Glazed Salmon

This sweet and savory teriyaki glaze elevates the flavors of salmon fillets to a new level, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying perfectly glazed salmon in no time!

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

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, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
6. Drizzle sesame oil over the glazed salmon.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if using).
9. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Coconut Curry Fish Stew

A flavorful and aromatic stew that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup fish broth or water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook 1 minute.
4. Add fish pieces; cook until they start to flake.
5. Pour in coconut milk and broth or water; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let stew cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Parmesan Crusted Haddock

Experience the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese paired with tender haddock in this easy-to-make recipe. With a crispy crust and flaky fish, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 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. Dip each haddock fillet in the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated haddock on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and sprinkle with lemon zest.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Butter Fish

This recipe is a flavorful and moist fish dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the fish fillets on the prepared sheet pan.
4. Dot each piece of fish with softened butter, then sprinkle with minced garlic and salt.
5. Top each piece of fish with a lemon slice.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and lemon slices.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Quick Fish and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Get ready for a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s on the table in no time! This quick stir-fry recipe combines tender fish, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauce to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the vegetables and stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Return the fish to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Asian-Style Steamed Fish

This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of many Asian cuisines, showcasing the delicate flavors and textures of steamed fish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound white fish fillet (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and button)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the fish fillet under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
3. Place the fish in a heatproof steamer basket or plate. Brush the top of the fish with the marinade.
4. Add the mixed mushrooms around the fish, leaving a small border at the edges.
5. Steam the fish over boiling water for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Herb-Crusted Baked Halibut

A flavorful and moist halibut dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the delicate flavor of halibut with the pungency of fresh herbs.

Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, dill, and lemon zest.
3. Place the halibut fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the halibut.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Serves: 4

Easy Fish Chowder

A comforting and flavorful soup that’s ready in no time! This recipe uses a combination of fish and vegetables to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as potatoes, carrots, and peas)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the fish and mixed vegetables. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Blackened Catfish with Avocado Salsa

Savor the bold flavors of the Southern Gulf Coast with this spicy blackened catfish dish, paired with a creamy and refreshing avocado salsa.

Ingredients:

For the Blackened Catfish:

– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cumin
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges

For the Avocado Salsa:

– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and cumin.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the melted butter, then coat in the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated catfish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine avocado, lime juice, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve blackened catfish with avocado salsa, lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Fish and Spinach Stuffed Shells

This recipe combines the flavors of fish, spinach, and cheese-stuffed pasta shells for a deliciously unique dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cod fillet, flaked
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine flaked fish, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the fish-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and top with additional mozzarella cheese. Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Simple Fish Ceviche

This refreshing and flavorful dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as an appetizer for a gathering. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and vibrant ceviche that’s sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound of firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, tomato, or jalapeño for added flavor and texture

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces and lime juice.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acid of the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped red onion and cilantro.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Tomato Basil Fish Skillet

This recipe combines the freshness of tomatoes and basil with the flaky goodness of fish, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the fish on top of the tomato-basil mixture.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Fish Piccata with Capers and Lemon

A classic Italian dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor, Fish Piccata is a great option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe features tender fish topped with a tangy caper-lemon sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4 flounder fillets (or other delicate white fish)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and flour.
2. Dredge the fish in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the fish to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, capers, and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve the fish with the sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Easy Fish and Potato Bake

A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick to prepare and delicious to eat. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, this fish and potato bake is a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s and complex carbohydrates.

Ingredients:

– 4 cod fillets (or other white fish)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced potatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the potato mixture in a single layer in a baking dish.
4. Place fish fillets on top of the potatoes.
5. Drizzle with milk and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until fish is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

20 Simple Easy Fish Recipes Flavorful
Indulge in a variety of delicious fish dishes with these 20 easy-to-make recipes. From baked cod to grilled salmon, and from spicy shrimp skillets to Mediterranean bakes, there’s something for every taste bud. Try garlic butter baked cod, lemon herb grilled salmon, panko crusted tilapia, or one-pan Mediterranean fish bake, among many others. These simple yet flavorful recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.