Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice & Avocado Salsa
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this delicious Blackened Tilapia served alongside flavorful Cilantro Lime Rice and fresh Avocado Salsa! This dish is not only vibrant and colorful but also packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and comes together quickly.
Why make this recipe?
This Blackened Tilapia recipe is a fantastic option for those looking to infuse their meals with a bit of zest and excitement. The combination of spices not only enhances the taste of the tilapia but also brings a delightful contrast to the creamy avocado salsa. Plus, it’s loaded with healthy ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for any dinner.
How to prepare Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice & Avocado Salsa
Ingredients:
- 🐟 4 tilapia fillets (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 🌿 2 tbsp olive oil
- 🌶️ 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 🧄 1 tsp garlic powder
- 🧅 1 tsp onion powder
- 🌱 1 tsp dried thyme
- 🌶️ 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 🧂 1/2 tsp salt
- 🧂 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 🍋 Juice of 1/2 lime
- 🍚 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 💧 2 cups water or broth
- 🍋 Zest and juice of 1 lime
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 🧈 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 🧂 Pinch of salt
- 🥑 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 🍅 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 🧅 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 🍋 Juice of 1 lime
- 🌿 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tilapia:
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Brush this spice mixture generously over both sides of the tilapia fillets. -
Cook the Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and mix in lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. -
Cook the Tilapia:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of olive oil or butter. Once hot, place the tilapia fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are blackened and cooked through. Remove from heat and let sit for a minute. -
Prepare Avocado Salsa:
In a bowl, combine the diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Gently toss to mix. -
Serve:
Serve the blackened tilapia on a bed of cilantro lime rice, topped with the avocado salsa.
How to serve Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice & Avocado Salsa
This dish is best served fresh. Place a fillet of blackened tilapia over a mound of cilantro lime rice and add a generous scoop of the avocado salsa on top. Garnish with extra lime wedges if desired, and enjoy the beautiful colors and flavors on your plate!
How to store Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice & Avocado Salsa
If you have leftovers, store the tilapia and cilantro lime rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the avocado salsa separate to prevent browning. Reheat the tilapia and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving again.
Tips for preparing Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice & Avocado Salsa
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the tilapia for a good sear.
- Adjust the spice level of the tilapia by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Use fresh ingredients for the salsa to enhance freshness.
- Always taste your rice for seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice as preferred.
Variations
- Fish Alternatives: You can use other types of fish such as salmon or cod.
- Grain Alternatives: Swap out jasmine or basmati rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate corn or bell peppers into the avocado salsa for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tilapia?
Yes, frozen tilapia works well! Just be sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even cooking.
2. Is this dish spicy?
The amount of cayenne pepper can be adjusted to your taste. It can be omitted for a milder flavor.
3. How do I know when the tilapia is cooked?
The tilapia is ready when it easily flakes with a fork and is opaque throughout.
Enjoy your flavorful Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice and Avocado Salsa! 🍽️