12 Fish Recipes for Delicious Weeknight Dinners

Busy weeknights call for meals that are quick, easy, and packed with flavor—without keeping you stuck in the kitchen for hours. Fish is the perfect solution: it cooks fast, pairs beautifully with simple ingredients, and delivers a healthy, satisfying meal that feels anything but ordinary. Whether you’re craving something light and citrusy, rich and buttery, or boldly spiced, these 12 recipes will transform your weeknight dinners into something special.

Imagine flaky white fish seared to golden perfection in a garlic-lemon sauce, crispy salmon glazed with sticky-sweet maple and soy, or tender cod baked under a crunchy herb crust. From 15-minute skillet dishes to sheet-pan wonders that practically clean up after themselves, these recipes are designed for real life—minimal prep, maximum taste. We’ve included crowd-pleasing classics like fish tacos with zesty lime crema, spicy Cajun shrimp and fish skillet, and even a foolproof fish curry that’s fragrant with coconut and ginger.

But this isn’t just about saving time—it’s about reinventing weeknight cooking with meals that excite your taste buds. Picture your family reaching for seconds of crispy fish sticks (made healthier with panko and herbs) or slurping up bowls of tomato-braised tilapia with crusty bread to mop up the sauce. With tips on choosing the freshest fish, easy swaps for picky eaters, and tricks for avoiding overcooking, these recipes take the stress out of seafood. So grab your skillet, fire up the oven, and let’s dive into dinners that are as effortless as they are delicious.

Mediterranean Fish Skewers

These Mediterranean fish skewers are a delightful way to enjoy a quick and tasty dinner. With the freshness of the fish and the vibrant flavors of colorful vegetables, each bite feels like a mini-vacation to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean. Plus, they are super simple to whip up, making them perfect for a busy weeknight.

Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs, the fish becomes tender and flavorful, while the veggies add a satisfying crunch. Serve them hot off the grill with a drizzle of yogurt sauce for a refreshing finish. Your family will love these skewers!

Ingredients

• 1 pound firm white fish (like cod or halibut), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Fish: Add the fish cubes to the marinade and let them sit for about 15-30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated fish, bell peppers, and onion onto the soaked skewers, alternating between fish and vegetables.
4. Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fish is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve with a side of yogurt sauce or tzatziki for dipping.

One-Pan Baked Cod with Tomatoes

This One-Pan Baked Cod with Tomatoes is a delicious and effortless way to enjoy a healthy dinner. The cod is tender and flaky, complemented perfectly by the burst of juicy tomatoes and the briny olives. It’s a simple recipe that comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. The combination of fresh herbs and vibrant ingredients creates a delightful meal that feels both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup black olives, pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cod fillets on top of the tomato mixture, season with additional salt and pepper.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving and enjoy your one-pan meal!

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

This creamy garlic butter shrimp pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender shrimp with rich, buttery flavors. It’s a quick and easy recipe that feels fancy enough for a special occasion but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

The creamy sauce is infused with garlic, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal in no time. It’s perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Oven-Baked Lemon Dill Tilapia

This Oven-Baked Lemon Dill Tilapia is the perfect dish for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The delicate tilapia fillets are infused with zesty lemon and fresh dill, making each bite light and refreshing. Ideal for busy evenings, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor.

With its bright citrus notes and aromatic herbs, this meal pairs beautifully with rice or a fresh salad. Plus, it’s a healthy option that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 4 tilapia fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tilapia fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush the lemon-dill mixture over the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
5. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and additional dill if desired. Serve warm with rice or a side salad.

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon

Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon is a delightful dish that brings the fresh flavors of citrus and herbs to the forefront. The tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the richness of the salmon, creating a meal that’s bright and satisfying. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a go-to for busy evenings.

The combination of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic enhances the salmon’s natural flavors while keeping the preparation quick and easy. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate Salmon: Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow them to marinate for 15-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill Salmon: Remove salmon from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with lemon slices before serving.

Fish and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This fish and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy dinner any night of the week. With tender fish and crisp veggies tossed in a savory sauce, it bursts with flavor and is sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

The combination of fresh vegetables and delicate fish creates a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Whether you choose salmon, tilapia, or your favorite fish, this dish is versatile and can be tailored to include any vegetables you have on hand. Enjoy it over rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound fish fillets (like tilapia or salmon), cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Next, add the fish cubes, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they start to turn golden and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the fish to the skillet, and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy your effortless weeknight dinner!

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli

Sheet Pan Teriyaki Salmon and Broccoli is a delightful weeknight meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The salmon is tender and flaky, coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, while the broccoli becomes crisp-tender, making for a colorful and nutritious dish.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights, as everything cooks together on a single sheet pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 salmon fillets
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Place the salmon fillets on one side of the baking sheet. Drizzle half of the teriyaki sauce over the fillets and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. On the other side of the baking sheet, toss the broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the remaining teriyaki sauce over the broccoli.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork, and the broccoli is tender.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the salmon and broccoli before serving.

Taco Night with Spicy Fish Tacos

Spicy fish tacos are a perfect way to bring some excitement to your weeknight dinners. They are light, zesty, and incredibly satisfying, making them a favorite for taco night. The fish is seasoned with spices that add a nice kick, and when paired with fresh toppings, it creates a delightful explosion of flavors.

This recipe is simple enough for any home cook, so you won’t be stressed in the kitchen. Just a few ingredients and some quick preparation, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress your family or friends!

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Season the Fish: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the fish fillets with this mixture and let them marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Fish: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and flaky. Remove from heat and chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Warm the Tortillas: In another pan, warm the corn tortillas for about 30 seconds on each side until they are pliable.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place the fish in the center of each tortilla, then top with shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, and avocado slices. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Enjoy your tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor!

Zesty Fish Curry with Coconut Milk

This zesty fish curry is a delightful mix of vibrant flavors that will make your taste buds sing. The creamy coconut milk balances the spices, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.

The combination of tender fish and fresh vegetables in a rich, aromatic sauce is both satisfying and nourishing. Serve it over rice to soak up every bit of the delicious curry. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger over medium heat until soft.
2. Add the red bell pepper and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the curry powder and turmeric, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the fish fillets, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily.
6. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Quick Fish Chowder

This quick fish chowder gives you a warm, comforting meal in no time. It combines tender fish, creamy broth, and hearty vegetables, making it a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The flavors blend together beautifully, creating a rich and savory taste that will please everyone at the table. Plus, with just a few simple steps, you can whip this up without a fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups diced potatoes
• 2 cups fish stock
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound white fish (like cod or haddock), cut into cubes
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the diced potatoes and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, fish, and corn. Cook until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Crispy Fish Sandwiches with Slaw

This crispy fish sandwich is a delightful treat that’s simple to whip up for a weeknight dinner. With a crunchy coating and tender fish, it’s a flavor-packed option that brings joy to your table. Paired with a refreshing slaw and your favorite toppings, it’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to make at home.

The combination of crispy fish, creamy sauce, and zesty slaw creates a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 4 pieces of white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 sandwich buns
• 1 cup coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Sliced pickles

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Set aside.
2. Breading Process: In one bowl, place flour; in another, whisk the egg; and in a third, add breadcrumbs. Dip each fillet in flour, then egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Cook the Fish: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded fish for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches: Place a crispy fish fillet on each bun, top with coleslaw and sliced pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Fish Foil Packets with Garlic and Herbs

Fish foil packets are a fantastic way to enjoy dinner without the fuss. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and flaky fish creates a dish that’s not only tasty but also healthy. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in one packet!

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, requiring minimal prep time while delivering big flavor. The fish steams beautifully, keeping it moist and infused with the aromatic goodness of garlic and herbs. You can customize the veggies to your liking, making it versatile for any palate.

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (salmon, tilapia, or your choice)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Assorted veggies (cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut large pieces of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long. Lay fish fillets in the center of each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the fish.
4. Add lemon slices and assorted veggies around the fish.
5. Fold the foil over the fish and veggies, sealing tightly to create a packet.
6. Place the packets on the grill or in the oven. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
7. Carefully open the packets, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve!

Final Thoughts
Weeknight dinners don’t have to be boring or repetitive—especially when fish is on the menu. These 12 recipes prove that with a few fresh ingredients and smart techniques, you can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family, or just looking to break out of a dinner rut, there’s a dish here to suit every mood and schedule. So next time you’re staring into the fridge wondering what to make, let fish be your go-to for fast, flavorful, and fuss-free dinners. Happy cooking!