Tilapia

Oreochromis niloticus Seafood

Tilapia Seafood

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood

The Forktionary Angle

"Demystify tilapia, the mild-mannered fish that's a blank canvas for countless global flavors, from simple pan-seared to complex curries."

Definition

A lean, white-fleshed freshwater fish widely farmed globally, known for its mild flavor and flaky texture, making it versatile for various preparations.

Best Cooking Methods Baking, grilling, pan-frying, steaming
Global Aquaculture Ranking 2nd most farmed fish (after carp)
Protein Content per 100g ~26g

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Tilapia are:

Mild slightly sweet clean

Chef’s Secret

Marinating tilapia for just 15-20 minutes in a citrus-based marinade not only infuses flavor but also helps to firm up the delicate flesh, preventing it from breaking apart during cooking.

Best Substitutes

Cod

Ratio 1:1

Haddock

Ratio 1:1

Catfish

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for firm, moist flesh, no strong fishy odor. Choose responsibly farmed tilapia, ideally from local sources.

Recipes Using Tilapia

Fish Easy 15 Minutes Or Less Asian

5 Spice Tilapia

This 5-Spice Tilapia recipe is a quick, flavorful, and surprisingly addictive dish! Even the pickiest fish-avoiders will be impressed by the tender, juicy tilapia infused with aromatic five-spice powder and a sweet and savory soy sauce glaze. Adapted from Eating Well Magazine (July/August 2010), this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Seafood Number Of Servings Preparation Tilapia

Baked Tilapia With White Wine And Herbs

Flaky, succulent tilapia baked to perfection in a delicate white wine sauce with fragrant herbs. This easy recipe from the American Tilapia Association is ready in under an hour and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality dish!

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To Go Main Ingredient Preparation Comfort Food

Beer Battered Tilapia

Craveable beer-battered tilapia that's light, crispy, and ready in under 30 minutes! This healthier twist on fish and chips uses seasoned whole-wheat flour for extra flavor without the guilt. Perfectly paired with our easy mango salsa (recipe available separately!), this recipe is a weeknight winner. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Freshwater Fish Main Ingredient Shellfish Freshwater Fish

Baked Tilapia W Fondue Sauce And Crab

Indulge in this decadent Baked Tilapia with Creamy Low-Fat Crab Fondue! This recipe boasts a rich and flavorful fondue sauce, surprisingly low in fat, that perfectly complements the flaky baked tilapia. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the crab meat create a dish that's both elegant and satisfying. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion!

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60 Minutes Or Less Equipment Main Ingredient Time To Make

Asparagus Tilapia Casserole

This creamy Asparagus Tilapia Casserole is a delicious and healthy one-pan meal! Flaky tilapia fillets are topped with tender asparagus and a savory creamy soup, then baked to perfection. A simple recipe, ready in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Customizable with optional water chestnuts for added crunch!

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For 1 Or 2 Main Ingredient Easy Low Sodium

Baked Tilapia With Veggies Herbs And Wine

A delightful and healthy baked tilapia recipe, ready in under an hour! This low-fat, flavorful dish features succulent tilapia fillets baked to perfection with a vibrant medley of sautéed portabello mushrooms, green onions, and bell peppers, enhanced by fragrant sherry and tarragon. Easy to follow instructions make it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Low Fat Low In Something Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Asian Style Grilled Tilapia

This quick and flavorful Asian-style grilled tilapia recipe is a weeknight dinner winner! Tender tilapia fillets are marinated in a vibrant sauce bursting with garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal, this recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference – add more garlic and ginger for an extra kick! Get ready to impress your taste buds in just 35 minutes!

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Cuisine Oven Seafood Fish

Al Pastor Fish Tacos

These vibrant Al Pastor Fish Tacos offer a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for Lent! Inspired by Baja California, this recipe features succulent fish marinated in a tangy pineapple-infused sauce, then baked to perfection. Enjoy these flavorful tacos with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. A quick and easy weeknight meal with authentic Mexican flavors!

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Preparation Time To Make Low Saturated Fat Seafood

Beer Battered Tilapia With Mango Salsa

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this vibrant and flavorful Beer Battered Tilapia recipe! Inspired by EatingWell, this recipe features a spicy whole wheat beer batter, crispy-fried to perfection, and topped with a zesty mango salsa boasting fresh mint. Skip the salt and enjoy a lighter, healthier take on a classic dish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

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Fish Easy Seafood Fish

Achiote Tilapia Super Simple

Capture the vibrant flavors of Yucatan fish tacos with this incredibly easy achiote tilapia recipe! Inspired by a Ritz-Carlton recipe, this dish boasts tender, flavorful tilapia infused with a zesty achiote marinade. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with lime wedges, creamy avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for an authentic touch. This recipe is so simple, even a beginner can create restaurant-quality fish tacos!

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Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less Novelty Reynolds Wrap

Treasure Trove Tilapia Dinner Rsc

Ready to create a delicious and fun family dinner? This Reynolds Wrap-inspired recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Enjoy flavorful tilapia baked to perfection in a convenient and portable gratin dish. Kids can easily help with the prep, making it a great weeknight meal or fun weekend activity. Perfect for enjoying indoors or outdoors thanks to its insulated Reynolds Wrap packaging. This recipe is not only tasty and visually appealing but also budget-friendly, featuring delicious and affordable tilapia.

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Low Cholesterol Pasta Rice And Grains Stove Top Main Ingredient

Arroz Na Gallinha

This vibrant Arroz Na Gallinha recipe is a family favorite, bursting with flavor and perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. I developed this recipe myself and it's guaranteed to impress! Tender chicken thighs simmered in a rich broth with fragrant spices, bell peppers, beans, and a hint of zesty lemon. The addition of tilapia adds a delightful twist! This recipe is incredibly filling and satisfying – your family will be asking for seconds!

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