Description
This tilapia in roasted pepper sauce is a light, flavorful, and elegant yet easy recipe. Tender pan-seared tilapia fillets are smothered in a silky roasted red pepper garlic sauce, creating a perfect healthy weeknight dinner or special occasion meal with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Tilapia
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Roasted Pepper Sauce
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic
- ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Tilapia: Pat tilapia fillets dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. This ensures the fish is well-seasoned and ready for searing.
- Sear the Tilapia: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tilapia and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, until the fillets are golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Blend the Sauce Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted red peppers and garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth and vibrant in color.
- Cook the Sauce: Pour the blended pepper mixture into the same skillet over medium heat. Stir in the broth, heavy cream, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Enhance the Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and season with salt and pepper to taste for a rich and balanced flavor.
- Combine and Warm Through: Return the cooked tilapia fillets to the skillet, spoon the roasted pepper sauce generously over the fish, and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to warm everything through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil over the dish for a fresh herbal finish. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Notes
- Jarred roasted red peppers are a convenient and flavorful shortcut.
- Cod, haddock, or halibut can be used as alternatives to tilapia.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for cream and omit Parmesan cheese.
- This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
- The roasted pepper sauce can be prepared ahead of time and gently reheated before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
