Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner table into a flavor explosion! This Tilapia with Spicy Fresh Salsa recipe is not just a meal, it's a taste adventure that combines the delicate texture of perfectly cooked fish with a zesty, vibrant salsa that will make your taste buds dance. In just 25 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring a better sear when cooking.
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced onion, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly. This will be your spicy fresh salsa. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding salt or more lime juice to suit your preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the tilapia fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and crispy.
- Gently flip the tilapia fillets using a spatula, being careful not to break them. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the tilapia is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Plate the tilapia fillets and generously top each fillet with the spicy fresh salsa you prepared earlier.
- Serve the tilapia with spicy fresh salsa immediately, garnished with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Mexican-inspired meal!
Tips
- Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry before cooking to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Use a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan for the best sear.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - cook the fillets in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cumin or chili powder to your salsa.
- Choose fresh, firm tilapia fillets for the best texture and taste.
- Let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to help retain its moisture.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity based on your spice tolerance - you're the boss of your heat level!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 136kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 60mg
