When it comes to dinner, few things are more satisfying than a delicious plate of fish. But let’s face it – cooking fish can be intimidating if you’re not sure where to start. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 quick and easy fish recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table in no time. From flavorful baked dishes to speedy stir-fries, these recipes prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for convenience.
In this article, we’ll dive into everything from classic cod and salmon dishes to more exotic options like coconut curry fish and spicy Cajun blackened catfish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. So grab your apron and get ready to reel in the flavor!
Garlic Butter Baked Cod
This recipe yields a flavorful and moist cod dish with a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place cod fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
4. In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
5. Spread one side of each cod fillet with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your dinner with this refreshing lemon herb grilled salmon recipe, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp 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, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the lemon herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill salmon for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Pan-Seared Tilapia with Capers
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make pan-seared tilapia recipe, featuring the salty zip of capers.
Ingredients:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh capers
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the tilapia for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the tilapia from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped capers to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
6. Add lemon zest and stir to combine.
7. Serve the pan-seared tilapia with the caper-lemon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines crispy fish, tangy lime crema, and crunchy toppings for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon lime zest
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (recipe below)
– Chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and crumbled queso fresco for toppings
Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cumin, and lime zest.
2. Dredge fish pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with cooked fish, lime crema, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Coconut Curry Fish
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of coconut milk with the tender flaky fish, all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/2 cup curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until slightly browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Baked Fish
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the delicate taste of baked fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each fillet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese and parsley.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Blackened Catfish
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy cajun blackened catfish recipe! This dish is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and heat that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 lemons, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dredge catfish fillets in the spice mixture, coating evenly.
4. Add butter to the preheated skillet and swirl it around.
5. Place coated catfish fillets in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
6. Serve with sliced lemons and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Quick Fish Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe combines the flavors of fish, potatoes, onions, and herbs to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fish broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the potatoes, fish, thyme, and paprika. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the fish broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowls
A sweet and savory take on a classic dish, this Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Bowl recipe is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender salmon, sticky teriyaki glaze, and crunchy vegetables, it’s a flavorful bowl that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon 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 sliced scallions
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– Cooked white or brown rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush with the teriyaki glaze.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss mixed vegetables with a little oil and season with salt and pepper. Cook according to package instructions.
6. Serve salmon on top of rice, surrounded by roasted vegetables and garnished with sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sheet Pan Lemon Garlic Fish and Veggies
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy solution for a busy weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and just one pan to clean, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or cod work well)
– 2 lemons, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the fish fillets on one half of the pan, drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the sliced veggies around the fish.
5. Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over the veggies and sprinkle with minced garlic.
6. Place a lemon slice on top of each fish fillet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce
Enjoy a delicious and effortless seafood meal with these simple fish cakes, served with a tangy tartar sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise (for tartar sauce)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine flaked fish, panko breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook fish cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. For tartar sauce, mix mayonnaise, parsley, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl. Serve with fish cakes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Air Fryer Fish Sticks
Get ready to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite fish sticks! This recipe uses the air fryer to produce crispy and delicious results with minimal oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish sticks (cod or pollock work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, and paprika.
3. Add the fish sticks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Place the fish sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through. The fish sticks are done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mediterranean Baked Fish with Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the richness of fish with the brightness of Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well, such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 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 fish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over the fish fillets.
6. Top each fillet with diced tomatoes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Fish Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe yields a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s ready in under 15 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch, this fish stir-fry is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook until opaque and flaky, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Return the fish to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Crusted White Fish
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make pesto crusted white fish recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or mahi-mahi)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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 pesto.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the fish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Fish and Chips
Savor the classic British dish of fish and chips with this simple recipe that yields a delicious and crispy result. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a quick dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 cups potato chips or frozen french fries, cooked according to package instructions
– Lemon wedges and tartar sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each fish piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry fish pieces for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with potato chips or french fries, lemon wedges, and tartar sauce (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Dill Baked Trout
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and refreshing lemon dill baked trout recipe. With its citrusy zing and subtle herbal notes, this dish is perfect for a light and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 trout fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place trout fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each filet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Brush the lemon-dill mixture evenly over each trout filet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Fish Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and aromatic curry that combines the richness of coconut milk with the spiciness of Indian spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe is also adaptable to your taste preferences, so feel free to adjust the level of heat or add your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (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 ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until golden brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add fish and cook until coated with spice mixture (3-4 minutes).
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low, simmering for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Quick Fish Fajitas
Get ready for a flavorful and fast Mexican-inspired meal with these Quick Fish Fajitas! This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the bold flavors of sizzling peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into thin strips
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup sliced onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish, bell peppers, and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in lime juice and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing cooked fish and vegetable mixture onto tortillas. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Fish Enchiladas with Salsa Verde
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this effortless recipe that combines tender fish, creamy salsa, and warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into 4-6 pieces
– 1/2 cup salsa verde (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together salsa verde and 1 tablespoon of water.
3. Dip each tortilla into the salsa mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place a piece of fish in the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around it.
5. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
6. Roll up tortillas tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and tortillas are slightly puffed.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover the simplicity and flavor of fish cooking with these 20 quick and easy recipes perfect for weeknights. From classic comfort food to international twists, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try garlic butter baked cod, lemon herb grilled salmon, or pan-seared tilapia with capers for a delicious and easy meal. Plus, find creative ways to use fish in tacos, curry, and more. With such a variety of options, you’re sure to find a new favorite recipe to add to your weeknight rotation.
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.
