10 Ways to Cook Perfect Tilapia

cook perfect tilapia

The mild flavor of Fresh Tilapia from Mexico and Honduras and Cotsco’s Kirkland Frozen Tilapia Loins makes the perfect addition to your next family dinner. You can bake it, fry it, sear it or smoke it and it’s guaranteed to turn out delicious. Here are 10 different ways to cook Tilapia along with some delicious recipes to get you started.

1. Seared

Served on a bed of greens, is there anything more simple yet elegantly presented? With a minimal list of ingredients and a total cook time of less than 30 minutes, this is a great recipe if you’re a beginner at cooking fish.

2. Baked

This one has a slightly more intimidating list of spices used to get the perfect spicy flavor, but it’s worth it. These fillets can be served with just about any side dish or on their own.

3. Grilled

The perfect addition to the grill for your next BBQ—this recipe is full of zest and spice. Between the fish and the mango salsa that it is paired with, no guest will leave hungry from your summer party!

4. Smoked

You don’t need a smoker to smoke fish! You will, however, need a glass of wine and some entertainment while this recipe heats up! Be sure to allow yourself enough time for the smoking process, which is approximately 2 hours, and don’t let the time intimidate you because the flavor of smoked Tilapia wrapped in basil and garlic is a dream.

5. Poached

If you’re afraid of over-cooking your fish and ending up with something less moist than anticipated, never fear—this recipe will keep you in the clear with luscious fillets. Plus, the white wine sauce adds just the right amount of sophistication.

6. Stir-fried

This is a simple recipe that yields tons of leftovers. Cutting up the vegetables and marinating the Tilapia the morning before really speeds up the time it takes to prepare this recipe after a long day of work.

7. Steamed

Steaming is probably the best way to cook Tilapia to ensure that it doesn’t dry out. This recipe calls for sesame seeds and other Asian-inspired flavors that pair well with Tilapia’s mild flavor.

8. Braised

Admittedly, this recipe can be a creator of dirty dishes. But for the delicious result, it’s definitely worth the mess. Pair with a light-bodied white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for maximum tastiness.

9. Sautéed

Talk about fancy. This recipe calls for Dijon mustard and an unexpected companion—prosciutto. Not only does this dish look beautiful, but it also tastes delicious and will change the way your family eats fish.

10. Cured

This dish does call for some ingredients that might not typically find in your pantry, but if you like the taste of kimchi, investing in it (along with some other Korean staples) for this recipe is a wise move! Plus, the quick pickles can’t be beat in terms of unique flavor.

The ways to cook Tilapia are endless and these recipes are just the tip of the iceberg! As you become more familiar with this amazingly versatile fish, continue to check out new recipes here.

Photo credit: Maen CG / Shutterstock; The girl who ate everythingMetroThe woks of lifeTaming of the spooneatdrinklifelove