When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like the versatility and flavor of whitefish. From delicate fillets to hearty chunks, this popular seafood choice can be prepared in a wide range of ways to suit any taste or occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive special-occasion dish, we’ve got you covered with these 18 delicious whitefish recipes.
In the following pages, we’ll explore everything from classic preparations like pan-seared whitefish and baked whitefish, to more adventurous dishes like crispy whitefish tacos and whitefish curry. We’ll also highlight some of the best ways to prepare whitefish for special occasions, such as grilled whitefish with Mediterranean vegetables or whitefish en papillote with lemon and dill.
So dive in and discover the incredible world of whitefish recipes – we’re sure you’ll find something that will make your taste buds (and your guests) very happy!
Pan-Seared Whitefish with Lemon Butter Sauce
A flavorful and elegant dish that combines the tenderness of whitefish with the brightness of lemon butter sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 whitefish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season whitefish with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet and swirl until melted.
4. Sear whitefish for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove fish from skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining butter to skillet.
7. Stir in lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
8. Simmer sauce for 1-2 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
9. Serve whitefish with lemon butter sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlic Herb Baked Whitefish
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional baked fish, this Garlic Herb Baked Whitefish recipe combines the richness of garlic with the brightness of herbs for a deliciously simple dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 whitefish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place the whitefish fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, olive oil, parsley, and dill.
5. Brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the fish fillets.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Whitefish Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, combining the crispiest whitefish with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Taco shells (corn or flour)
– Mango Salsa ingredients (below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge whitefish pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing fried whitefish pieces onto the shells, then topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whitefish Chowder with Fresh Herbs
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tender whitefish, fresh herbs, and creamy potatoes. A great way to warm up on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or haddock), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chives, or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Gradually add flour, whisking to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add fish stock and bring to a simmer. Add whitefish pieces and cook until opaque and flaky, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in diced potatoes and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Whitefish with Mediterranean Vegetables
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful recipe that combines the freshness of whitefish with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 whitefish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the whitefish fillets.
4. Grill the fish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, brush the bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill the vegetables alongside the fish for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
7. Serve the grilled whitefish with Mediterranean vegetables and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whitefish Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
This refreshing ceviche recipe combines the delicate flavor of whitefish with the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro. Perfect for a light and flavorful appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the whitefish pieces, lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeño.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in a pinch of salt to taste.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Whitefish Piccata with Capers and White Wine
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor, this Whitefish Piccata recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Thinly sliced whitefish is dredged in flour, then sautéed with garlic, capers, and a splash of white wine, resulting in a moist and tender filet.
Ingredients:
– 4 (6 oz) whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp capers, chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup white wine
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the fish with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the fish in flour, shaking off excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the fish to the skillet and sauté for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the fish from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add remaining 1 tbsp butter. Stir in capers and white wine; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the fish with the caper-white wine sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smoked Whitefish Dip with Crackers
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and savory smoked whitefish dip, perfectly paired with crunchy crackers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of smoked whitefish, flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag of crackers (such as Ritz or saltines)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked whitefish, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with crackers.
Cooking Time: None
Serves: 8-10 people
Whitefish and Potato Bake with Parmesan Crust
Whitefish and Potato Bake with Parmesan Crust: A creamy and crispy twist on a classic comfort food dish. This recipe combines flaky whitefish, tender potatoes, and a crunchy Parmesan crust for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 whitefish fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the whitefish fillets, sliced potatoes, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Toss until the fish and potatoes are well coated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese and flour.
5. Sprinkle the Parmesan crust evenly over the top of the whitefish and potatoes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whitefish Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this creamy whitefish curry made with coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (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 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add whitefish pieces and cook until pink and flaky, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Whitefish en Papillote with Lemon and Dill
A flavorful and moist whitefish dish wrapped in parchment paper, infused with the brightness of lemon and the freshness of dill.
Ingredients:
– 4 whitefish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place a whitefish fillet on a piece of parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch border around the fish.
4. Spoon the lemon-dill mixture evenly over the fish.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the fish to create a sealed packet.
6. Repeat with the remaining fillets and ingredients.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whitefish Burgers with Tartar Sauce
Elevate your burger game with these flavorful and refreshing whitefish burgers, paired with a tangy tartar sauce. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and cheese (optional)
– Tartar Sauce:
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tablespoons chopped pickle relish
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine whitefish, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook burgers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare tartar sauce by mixing mayonnaise, pickle relish, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, cheese (if using), and tartar sauce on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whitefish Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the delicate taste of whitefish with the warmth of ginger and the savory goodness of soy sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the whitefish fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Remove the fish from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
6. Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
7. Return the whitefish to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Whitefish Risotto with Peas and Lemon Zest
This creamy risotto pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of whitefish, adding a burst of freshness from lemon zest and sweetness from peas. A comforting yet elegant dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook whitefish according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in peas, lemon juice, and zest. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until peas are tender.
6. Serve whitefish on top of risotto; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Whitefish Salad with Avocado and Cherry Tomatoes
This refreshing salad combines the flaky whitefish with creamy avocado, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a hint of lemon, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked whitefish (such as cod or tilapia), flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the flaked whitefish, diced avocado, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time only)
Whitefish Fritters with Spicy Aioli
Elevate your appetizer game with these crispy whitefish fritters served with a tangy spicy aioli. This recipe combines the freshness of fish with the boldness of spices, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Fritters:
– 1 pound whitefish (such as cod or tilapia), flaked
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flaked fish, flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the fish mixture into the oil.
3. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. For the Spicy Aioli, mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. Serve warm fritters with chilled spicy aioli for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whitefish Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
This simple yet flavorful pasta dish combines tender whitefish, aromatic garlic, and rich olive oil to create a delicious weeknight meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add whitefish fillets to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and garlic-infused olive oil mixture in a large bowl.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Whitefish Soup with Fennel and Saffron
This aromatic soup combines the delicate flavor of whitefish with the subtle sweetness of fennel and the warmth of saffron, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whitefish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium fennel bulbs, chopped
– 4 cups fish stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine fennel, fish pieces, and fish stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add heavy cream and saffron mixture; stir gently.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these 18 mouth-watering whitefish recipes! From classic dishes like pan-seared whitefish with lemon butter sauce and garlic herb baked whitefish, to global-inspired flavors such as crispy whitefish tacos with mango salsa and whitefish curry with coconut milk. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dinner party option, this collection has something for every occasion.
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