Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This coconut crusted fish recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering a burst of tropical flavor in a matter of minutes. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this unbelievably simple and satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 (4-6 ounce) white fish fillets (cod, tilapia, or snapper work well)
- 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
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Prep the Fish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels. This helps the crust adhere better.
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Make the Coconut Crust: In a shallow dish, combine the shredded coconut, panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Coat the Fish: Drizzle the fish fillets with olive oil and lime juice. Then, press each fillet into the coconut mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated on all sides.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the coated fish fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fillets.
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Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh cilantro (if using) and serve immediately with lime wedges. The bright citrus complements the rich coconut beautifully.
Cooking Tips for the Best Coconut Crusted Fish:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give the fish fillets enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to gently flake the fish. It's cooked through when it flakes easily. Overcooking can make it dry.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. A dash of cayenne pepper adds a nice kick!
- Get creative with herbs: Experiment with different herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Coconut Crust: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the coconut mixture for a spicy twist.
- Mango Coconut Crust: Incorporate some finely diced mango into the coconut mixture for a sweet and savory combination.
- Lemon Coconut Crust: Substitute lemon juice for lime juice for a brighter, zestier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious and easy coconut crusted fish recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it one of the best recipes for a quick and satisfying dinner. Enjoy!