Fish doesn’t need a lot to turn into a solid meal, sometimes it’s baked with citrus or spice, other times it’s pan-fried, folded into tacos, or dropped into a pot with broth and herbs. This list pulls together a wide mix of styles, from crisp battered fillets and simple sheet pan bakes to curry, soup, stock, and loaded nachos that use fish in something other than just the main course. Some are fast weeknight builds, others simmer longer or fry in oil for that golden crust, but all of them bring out what works best in fish: mild flavor, quick cook time, and enough versatility to carry everything from bold chilies to fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving tacos, rice, or just building flavor into broth, these recipes hold up without needing a lot of extras.
Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish
This dish uses a sticky glaze of apricot preserves and chili to coat tender white fish as it bakes. The sweetness cuts through the heat for balance without hiding the fish. Serve with rice or greens. It’s fast, bold, and built to spoon up with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish
Baked Fish with Fennel and Tomatoes
Fish fillets bake in a bed of sliced fennel, cherry tomatoes, and olive oil. The juices mix into a light sauce as everything cooks. It’s soft, savory, and good with bread or grains. A simple dish that keeps its flavor clean.
Get the Recipe: Baked Fish with Fennel and Tomatoes
Mediterranean Baked Fish
Tomatoes, olives, lemon, and herbs roast with white fish until everything softens and mixes. The fish stays flaky while the topping adds brine and brightness. Serve hot with crusty bread. It builds its own sauce in the pan.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Baked Fish
Easy Baked Fish Sticks
Strips of white fish breaded and baked until golden and crisp. These hold their shape without deep frying. Serve with tartar sauce or stuff into a sandwich. A reliable recipe that doesn’t take long.
Get the Recipe: Easy Baked Fish Sticks
Pan Fried Bell Fish
Mild fish seasoned and fried in oil until the edges crisp up. The crust holds flavor while the inside stays soft. Serve with lemon and rice or wrap in flatbread. It cooks fast and tastes like more than it is.
Get the Recipe: Pan Fried Bell Fish
Fish Tacos
Simple, seasoned fish tucked into soft tortillas with classic toppings. The fish cooks fast and takes on whatever flavors you add. Serve with lime wedges and hot sauce. It’s all about build-your-own simplicity.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos
Thai Fish Cakes
Minced fish mixed with red curry paste, herbs, and egg, shaped into patties and pan-fried. The outside browns while the inside stays soft and packed with flavor. Serve with sweet chili sauce. They’re crisp, spicy, and easy to make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fish Cakes
Ukha Russian Fish Soup
A clear fish broth simmered with root vegetables, herbs, and mild white fish. The broth stays light but full of flavor. Serve hot with fresh dill or lemon. It’s simple, warming, and classic.
Get the Recipe: Ukha Russian Fish Soup
Fish Stock
Heads, bones, and trimmings simmered with vegetables and herbs into a base stock. It cooks down clear with deep flavor. Strain and use in soups, sauces, or risottos. A kitchen staple that builds depth fast.
Get the Recipe: Fish Stock
Baja Fish Tacos
Fried fish tucked into warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, lime, and sauce. The batter crisps up while the fillings stay bright. These build fast and work well for groups. A classic street food flavor that never misses.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos
Kerala Fish Curry
Chunks of fish simmered in a coconut milk and tamarind-based curry with spice and heat. The sauce thickens as it cooks without breaking the fish apart. Serve with rice or flatbread. It’s bold, rich, and full of layered flavor.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry
Beer Battered Fish
Fillets dipped in beer batter and fried until golden and puffed. The crust gets crisp while the inside stays flaky. Serve with fries, slaw, or tartar sauce. It’s a classic for a reason and holds up to frying.
Get the Recipe: Beer Battered Fish
Baked Lemon Butter Fish
Fish fillets baked in lemon juice and melted butter with garlic and herbs. The fish cooks soft and pulls apart easily. Spoon the sauce over before serving. A simple, quick bake with clean flavor.
Get the Recipe: Baked Lemon Butter Fish
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
Grilled or baked fish served in tortillas with cabbage, salsa, and a quick crema made with lime and cilantro. The crema softens the heat and ties the filling together. It’s a clean, fresh taco build. Serve with chips or slaw on the side.
Get the Recipe: Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Crema
