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Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 126 reviews

This Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce recipe features tender pan-seared tilapia fillets served with a vibrant, smooth roasted red pepper sauce infused with garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and balsamic vinegar. It’s a flavorful yet healthy seafood dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Tilapia

  • 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 ounces each)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Olive oil for cooking (about 1 tablespoon)

Roasted Pepper Sauce

  • 2 red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Roast the Bell Peppers: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, turning them halfway through until the skin is charred and blistered. Remove from the oven, place in a bowl, and cover with a towel or plastic wrap. Let them steam for 10 minutes to loosen the skins. Peel off the skins, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers into pieces.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Make the Roasted Pepper Sauce: Add the roasted peppers to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the broth, balsamic vinegar, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a blender or use an immersion blender to puree until smooth.
  4. Sear the Tilapia: In the same skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the tilapia fillets with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook each fillet for 3-4 minutes per side until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Spoon the roasted pepper sauce over the cooked tilapia fillets. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Roasting the bell peppers ahead of time can save prep time when cooking.
  • Use fresh parsley for garnish to add brightness to the dish.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.
  • This recipe can be adapted using other white fish fillets like cod or haddock.
  • Ensure not to overcook the tilapia to keep it moist and tender.

Keywords: tilapia recipe, roasted pepper sauce, pan-seared fish, healthy seafood recipe, quick dinner