Some foods seem like they were born to be paired with one another. Peanut butter and jelly; oil and vinegar; milk and cookies. But once upon a time, these pairings and other unusual combinations like them may have raised a few eyebrows. Similarly, Tilapia is probably not one of the first foods you associate with pasta dishes—but maybe it should be!
Tilapia is a perfect protein to upgrade traditional pasta dishes. These white fish fillets are versatile, with their mild taste making them adaptable to various flavorings. From a nutritional standpoint, Tilapia is low in fat and has a low carb content, which is important considering that pasta itself can be carb dense, depending on which type you opt for. So mix things up next pasta night, and see for yourself how Tilapia and pasta are the next great food pairing in the making.
Jalapeno Garlic Tilapia
True foodies will appreciate this out-of-the-ordinary jalapeno garlic Tilapia pasta. This recipe yields a unique combination of satisfying creamy and zesty flavors. It calls for fillets to be crusted in a jalapeno mixture, which amplifies the zestiness and contrasts favorably with the delicate angel hair pasta noodles. Adjust jalapeno quantities according to your spice preference.
Try the recipe: Jalapeno Garlic Tilapia from Genius Kitchen.
Tilapia Pasta
This marinara sauce-based pasta recipe will have you thinking twice about shrimp being your default seafood addition to pasta dishes. Tilapia adapts exceptionally well to the flavors of the dish, as its mild flavor makes it wonderfully suited to the strong presence of capers and fennel.
Try the recipe: Tilapia Pasta from Cutco.
Green Goddess Pasta with Pesto Tilapia
Tasting like a pasta dish nonna would be proud of, this dish features fresh green ingredients paired with an herb-infused pesto and everybody’s favorite pasta accompaniment: parmesan cheese. Chock-full of veggies like broccoli, green peas and asparagus, there’s no guilt in helping yourself to a second serving!
Try the recipe: Green Goddess Pasta with Pesto Tilapia from The Healthy Fish.
Tilapia Piccata
Delicately balanced and ready in just half an hour, this pasta dish is as delicious as it is Instagrammable. The sauce features beer or wine, which elevates every component of the recipe, and its simple yet sophisticated style makes it a great option to serve at a dinner party or a work potluck.
Try the recipe: Tilapia Piccata from Killing Thyme.
Provencal Pasta with Tilapia
Light, vibrant and super easy to whip up, this Mediterranean pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Tilapia perfectly complements the delicate balance of capers, garlic and fresh rosemary, with the fillets drastically boosting the protein portion of the dish without altering the flavor. The anchovies also add a lovely natural saltiness, so be sure to taste your dish before adding any additional salt!
Try the recipe: Provencal Pasta with Tilapia from Beyond Mere Sustenance.
There’s no rule book stating that Tilapia should only be served on a plate with a variety of side dishes. While a traditional fish-and-three-veg dinner certainly has its merits, it’s great to switch up food pairings to incorporate a wide variety of vitamins and nutrients into your diet. As such, explore other options for your pasta base by trying whole wheat or zucchini noodles instead of regular white pasta. You’ll be surprised at how kids won’t be able to taste the difference, but their bodies will definitely appreciate the switch. Surprise the whole family by cooking up a creative Tilapia-infused pasta dish this week.
For more innovative Tilapia recipes, check out these five quick and easy poke bowls.
Eager to try these recipes at home? Consult our store locator to find your nearest Tilapia retailer.
Photo Credits: Johnny Carino’s, Cutco, The Healthy Fish, Killing Thyme, Beyond Mere Sustenance