This Easy Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce is a tasty treat! The tender fish pairs perfectly with a zesty, colorful sauce made from roasted peppers. Yum!
I love making this dish on busy nights. It’s quick to whip up, and the smell of the roasted peppers makes the kitchen feel like a restaurant!
Simply cook the tilapia, toss it in that vibrant sauce, and you’re ready to impress. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This mild fish is perfect for soaking up flavors. If tilapia isn’t available, you can easily substitute it with cod, haddock, or even chicken breast for a different protein option.
Red Bell Pepper: Roasted red peppers add sweetness and depth. Don’t have any? Try jarred roasted peppers or even fresh chopped tomatoes as a substitute for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream or cashew cream instead.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice cheesy flavor to the sauce. If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast is a great substitute to get that umami flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This is optional, but it enhances the flavor of the sauce. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a dash of cayenne can add some warmth.
How Do You Get the Fish Perfectly Cooked Without Overdoing It?
Cooking tilapia perfectly can be tricky, but here are some tips! Aim for medium heat and keep an eye on the time to prevent overcooking.
- Season the fish just before cooking. This will help keep it moist.
- Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes. The fish goes from opaque to flaky as it cooks—check for these signs.
- Remove the fish from the skillet as soon as it’s cooked through. It will continue to cook a bit in the sauce, so you want it just done.
With these tips, your tilapia will be tender and flavorful every time! Enjoy your delicious meal.
Easy Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, and chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing and seasoning the tilapia, and around 20 minutes cooking the sauce and finishing the dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Fish:
Start by seasoning the tilapia fillets generously on both sides with salt and black pepper. This is essential for adding flavor to the fish.
2. Cook the Tilapia:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the tilapia fillets carefully. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, and then add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them together for about 2 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
4. Add Tomato and Paprika:
Now, stir in the tomato paste and if you’re using it, the smoked paprika. Cook this mixture for another minute to bring out the flavors.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, add the chopped roasted red bell pepper and the chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet. Let the mixture cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing all those lovely flavors to combine.
6. Blend the Sauce:
For a smooth sauce, take an immersion blender and blend the mixture in the skillet until smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer it to a blender and then return it to the skillet.
7. Add Cream and Cheese:
Return the sauce to the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook it for a few minutes until it’s warmed through and slightly thickened.
8. Combine Fish and Sauce:
Bring back your tilapia fillets to the skillet and gently spoon the sauce over them. Let them cook together for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this delightful tilapia with your choice of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious roasted pepper sauce!
FAQ for Easy Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce
Can I Substitute Other Fish for Tilapia?
Absolutely! Cod, haddock, or any white fish with a mild flavor works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the fish you choose; thicker fillets may need a few extra minutes.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
No problem! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan, you can use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the fish from becoming tough.
Can I Use Fresh Bell Peppers Instead of Roasted?
Yes, you can use fresh bell peppers! Just chop them and sauté them with the onions and garlic until they are soft and sweet. Roasting adds a unique flavor, but fresh will still work well!
