Description
A light yet flavorful fish dish featuring tender tilapia fillets simmered in a creamy roasted red pepper sauce — ready in under 30 minutes for a delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 1 ½ pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (12-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, drained
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Pat tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add tilapia and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden and just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add roasted red peppers, broth, cream, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
- Return the sauce to the skillet, stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the cooked tilapia fillets back into the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to warm through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Substitute tilapia with cod, halibut, or any mild white fish.
- Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter sauce.
- This dish pairs beautifully with garlic mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean