Potatoes

Fish and chips, anyone? Potatoes are great to work with because you can prepare them in so many different ways—plus they’re packed with carbs for energy. Rosemary roasted potatoes are an easy side dish that pair well with baked Tilapia or another white fish like cod. When combined be prepared for a delicious and hearty meal perfect for a chilly evening.

Caesar Salad

For a salad with some character, try out this caesar salad recipe that pairs perfectly with fish. Caesar salad is typically available pre-made in the grocery store as well, for those nights when you don’t have the time or ingredients to prepare a fresh side yourself.

Steamed Veggies

To keep things healthy, steamed veggies are a must-eat with fish! Steaming is a great way to cook vegetables by locking in moisture while using minimal ingredients (there’s no need for oils or sauces). It’s as simple as picking up fresh veggies like broccoli, carrots and peppers and letting them steam in water for a few minutes. Here are some different ways to steam your vegetables, with or without a traditional steamer. Be sure to sprinkle with some fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Brown Rice

Brown rice will add more fiber to your diet—ideal for those trying to bulk up on muscle and slim down on fat. This grain is a versatile addition to any healthy dish, especially when you prepare it with fish. Try out this delicious miso-glazed salmon with brown rice (pictured above) with a simple five ingredient marinade. Or pair with an Asian-inspired grilled Tilapia for a beautifully balanced meal.

Pasta

Seafood pasta dishes seem too fancy to recreate at first thought, but they’re actually quite simple to prepare. You can modify this recipe with any seafood you have in your pantry—whether it’s shrimp, mussels or Tilapia. Spaghetti may look more elegant, but don’t feel you have to use it—you can also try this recipe with any pasta you have on hand.

Bean Salad

Who says salads always have to be made with leafy greens? A bean salad, such as this one, is tasty, quick to make and is loaded with fiber and protein. It’s an ideal side dish for those summer nights when it’s too hot to turn the oven on. Instead, sear some Tilapia fillets in a pan (it only takes a couple of minutes per side!) and place on top of a bean salad.

Quinoa

Love it or hate it, quinoa has become known as a superfood in recent years and for good reason. It’s loaded with health benefits—one serving of quinoa fills you up with iron, B-vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber and potassium. Best of all, it works wonders next to virtually all types of fish. Check out a gallery of quinoa recipes here.

Next time you’re nervous about preparing fish, turn to this recipe roundup and start with the side dish. Once you’ve mastered that, grab your favorite cut of Tilapia and add it to the mix—you’ll have a fabulous meal in no time, all while reaping the benefits of eating a very healthy fish.

Photo credits: bon appetit; Al Richardson for taste.com; Once Upon a Chef