This Tilapia in Creamy Roasted Pepper Sauce is a tasty dish that’s quick and easy to make. The fish is tender and goes perfectly with the rich, creamy sauce made from roasted peppers.
I love how the flavors blend together to create a warm and cozy meal. Pair it with rice or pasta, and you’ve got a dinner that feels special, but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tilapia: This fish is mild and cooks quickly. If you can’t find tilapia, other white fish like cod or haddock work well. They’ll give a similar texture and flavor.
Red Bell Pepper: Roasted red peppers bring sweetness and depth to the sauce. If you’re in a pinch, jarred roasted red peppers can be a great time-saver!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The sauce might be less rich but still delicious!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, though you might miss the smoky element.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Roasted Peppers?
Roasting peppers is simple and can add amazing flavor to your dish. Here are some key steps:
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will char the skin nicely.
- Place the whole red pepper directly on a baking sheet. Turn it occasionally for even charring.
- When the skin is blistered and dark, remove it and place it in a bowl covered with plastic wrap. This helps to steam off the skin easily.
- After about 10 minutes, peel off the charred skin and remove the seeds. Now you’re ready to chop it up!
With this technique, your roasted peppers will have that delicious, sweet flavor that elevates the sauce.
Tilapia in Creamy Roasted Pepper Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to get this delicious Tilapia in Creamy Roasted Pepper Sauce on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roast the Red Pepper:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the whole red bell pepper on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally. The goal is to have the skin charred and blistered. Once done, remove the pepper and put it in a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it steam for about 10 minutes. This will make peeling easier.
2. Prepare the Pepper:
After the pepper has steamed, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and roughly chop up the flesh. Set aside for later.
3. Season and Cook the Tilapia:
Season the tilapia fillets with salt and black pepper on both sides. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the tilapia fillets and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side. You want them golden and cooked through. Once done, remove the fillets from the skillet and keep them warm.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until it’s translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Add the chopped roasted red pepper to the skillet and stir in the smoked paprika and dried oregano. Pour in the broth and heavy cream. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Finish the Dish:
Stir in the fresh lemon juice, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Now return the tilapia fillets to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over them. Let them warm through for about a minute or two.
7. Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve your Tilapia in Creamy Roasted Pepper Sauce immediately. It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables!
Enjoy your flavorful meal that’s sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Tilapia for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen tilapia, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat the fish dry with paper towels to ensure it cooks evenly.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s consistency if needed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor and richness may vary slightly.
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like spinach or artichokes for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the onions and garlic to soften them before adding the cream and broth.
