Tilapia with Tomato is a simple yet flavorful dish with tilapia is seasoned perfectly and pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. Pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Tips and Tricks for Making Tilapia with Tomato
Achieving perfection with this recipe is easier than you might think. Here are some tried-and-tested tips to elevate your dish:
- Freshness Matters: Use fresh tilapia fillets for the best flavor. Frozen fillets can work, but ensure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Tomato Variety: Opt for ripe, juicy tomatoes such as Roma or cherry tomatoes for a sweeter and tangier sauce. Canned diced tomatoes are a convenient alternative.
- Season Generously: Tilapia has a mild flavor, so don’t be shy with your seasonings. A blend of garlic, paprika, and a dash of lemon juice works wonders.
- Avoid Overcooking: Tilapia cooks quickly, usually in about 4-5 minutes per side. Overcooking can make the fillets dry and less flavorful.
- Enhance the Sauce: Add a splash of white wine, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or fresh basil to take the tomato sauce to the next level.
Variations of Tilapia with Tomato
This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can customize it to suit your palate:
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy version.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Infuse the tomato sauce with fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a dollop of cream or coconut milk for a rich, velvety sauce.
- Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for a one-pan meal with added nutrition.
How to Serve Tilapia with Tomato
Tilapia with tomato is as versatile in serving as it is in preparation. Here are some ideas:
- Over Rice: Pair with steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful tomato sauce.
- With Pasta: Serve over spaghetti or linguine for an Italian-inspired dish.
- Alongside Veggies: Roast some asparagus, broccoli, or a medley of root vegetables for a healthy side.
- With Crusty Bread: Savor the sauce with slices of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread.
- On Its Own: Serve as a light main dish for those watching their carbs.
How to Store Tilapia with Tomato
If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence!), here’s how to store them for maximum freshness:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid drying out the fish.
- Freeze: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use another type of fish?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other mild, flaky fish like cod, haddock, or flounder.
What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
Canned diced tomatoes or even tomato puree are excellent substitutes. If using puree, balance the acidity with a pinch of sugar.
How do I know when tilapia is fully cooked?
The fillets should be opaque and flake easily with a fork. If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato sauce can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cook the tilapia fresh for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the base recipe is naturally gluten-free. Be mindful of any additional ingredients like bread or pasta.
Tilapia with Tomato
Tilapia with Tomato is a simple yet flavorful dish with tilapia is seasoned perfectly and pan-seared to golden perfection, then simmered in a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. Pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a light salad. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Ingredients
For the Tilapia:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1.5 lbs fresh tilapia (3-4 fillets)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Basil Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced
- ¼ cup vegetable stock
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- ½ tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add red pepper flakes and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Toss in cherry tomatoes and jalapeño, cooking until the tomatoes soften and blister, around 12 minutes.
- Add vegetable stock, stir, and let simmer. Finish with basil, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the sauce to a bowl and set aside.
- In the same pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season tilapia fillets with salt and pepper, then cook for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Return the tomato basil sauce to the pan, pouring it over the tilapia. Reheat briefly and serve with fresh basil and your favorite sides like rice, zucchini noodles, or cauliflower rice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 360Total Fat 18gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 14gCholesterol 97mgSodium 290mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 46g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
With its delightful balance of flavors and endless versatility, tilapia with tomato is a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a winner every time. Try it today and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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