Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than fish and rice! This classic combination is a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when done right, it can be truly mouth-watering. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful fish and rice recipes that are surprisingly simple to make.
From the subtle sweetness of garlic butter salmon with lemon rice, to the bold flavors of spicy tuna poke bowl with sushi rice, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting curry or a light and zesty stir-fry, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron and let’s dive into these tasty recipes!
Garlic Butter Salmon with Lemon Rice
Experience the perfect balance of savory and citrusy flavors with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared salmon fillets smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy lemon-infused rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add white wine (if using) and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
5. Place salmon fillets in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve salmon atop cooked white rice, spooning some of the garlic butter sauce over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl with Sushi Rice
Elevate your sushi game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines tender tuna, spicy kick, and creamy sauce with a bed of fluffy sushi rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger slices
– Sushi rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– Sriracha sauce (to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the tuna and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
4. To assemble the poke bowls, place cooked sushi rice in a bowl, then top with marinated tuna, green onions, cucumber, pickled ginger slices, and a drizzle of Sriracha sauce (to taste).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Coconut Milk Fish Curry with Jasmine Rice
This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and spices with flaky fish, served over a bed of aromatic jasmine rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add fish, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
4. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Serve fish curry over cooked jasmine rice and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Cod with Sticky Rice
This recipe combines the rich flavors of teriyaki glaze with tender cod and fluffy sticky rice for a delicious and satisfying meal. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cod fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup sticky rice
– 2 cups water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Place cod fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook sticky rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired. Serve cod with sticky rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Baked Fish with Herbed Rice
Experience the warm flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Flaky fish is paired with a fragrant herb-infused rice dish, all baked to perfection in one easy step.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of white fish (such as cod or tilapia), 6 oz each
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and lemon zest.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is fluffy.
4. Meanwhile, season fish with salt and pepper.
5. Place fish on top of herbed rice in a single layer.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blackened Tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful Blackened Tilapia paired with a refreshing and aromatic Cilantro Lime Rice. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the tilapia:
– 4 tilapia fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
For the rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season tilapia with blackening seasoning, then coat with olive oil and garlic.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. For the rice, combine rice, water, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Serve tilapia with Cilantro Lime Rice and garnish with lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Basil Fish Stir-Fry with Coconut Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that combines the freshness of basil with the richness of coconut rice, perfectly paired with succulent fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the fish according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and curry paste; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add cooked fish and stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
5. Serve with coconut rice and garnish with Thai basil leaves. Squeeze a sliver of lime juice over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Halibut with Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your seafood game with this impressive yet effortless dish, featuring pan-seared halibut paired with a rich and creamy mushroom risotto. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 halibut fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season halibut fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-sear halibut for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until tender. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add white wine and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Cook until liquid is absorbed and risotto is creamy.
6. Serve pan-seared halibut atop mushroom risotto and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Grilled Swordfish with Tomato Basil Rice
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the tender taste of swordfish with the sweetness of tomatoes and freshness of basil. Perfect for a summer evening!
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the swordfish with the mixture.
4. Grill swordfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While swordfish is cooking, combine cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil in a medium bowl.
6. Fluff rice mixture gently to combine.
7. Serve grilled swordfish on top of tomato basil rice.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Spanish Fish and Rice
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the freshness of fish with the comfort of a hearty rice bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add the browned fish back into the pot and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Trout with Wild Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the rich taste of smoked trout with the earthy goodness of wild rice pilaf.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz smoked trout fillets, flaked
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Stir in flaked smoked trout and cook for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
6. Combine cooked wild rice with the trout mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic, tangy lemon, and savory rice in a quick-cooking skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creole Redfish with Dirty Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Creole dish, featuring pan-seared redfish smothered in a spicy tomato-based sauce and served over savory dirty rice.
Ingredients:
For the redfish:
– 4 redfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dirty rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, paprika, and Cajun seasoning.
3. Place redfish fillets in a shallow dish and brush with the mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook dirty rice according to package instructions. Add diced onion, celery, and garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
5. Pan-sear redfish for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through. Serve over dirty rice.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Japanese Mackerel Donburi Rice Bowl
This hearty bowl of Japanese goodness combines succulent mackerel with savory rice and a variety of textures, perfect for a satisfying meal. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a delicious donburi bowl that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup mackerel fillet, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 cup mixed greens (shiso, cilantro, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add mackerel strips and cook until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and white pepper. Bring to a simmer and reduce by half, stirring occasionally.
4. To assemble the donburi bowl, place cooked rice in the bottom of a bowl, followed by mackerel strips, mixed greens, and scallions.
5. Drizzle reduced sauce over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Haddock with Parmesan Rice
A flavorful and elegant seafood dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the delicate taste of haddock with the savory goodness of parmesan cheese and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 haddock fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together olive oil, parmesan cheese, and thyme.
4. Place haddock fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the parmesan mixture evenly over the fish.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
7. Serve with cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Catfish with Red Beans and Rice
This classic Louisiana dish combines the flavors of spicy catfish, creamy red beans, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup red kidney beans, cooked with onion, bell pepper, and tomato
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip catfish fillets in melted butter, then coat with the spice mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated catfish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with red beans and rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seared Ahi Tuna with Wasabi Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines tender seared ahi tuna with spicy wasabi rice. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tsp wasabi paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using the water and add wasabi paste, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Serve the seared tuna on top of the wasabi rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Tacos with Cilantro Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of the ocean with the brightness of cilantro, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these tasty tacos in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 corn tortillas
– Cilantro Rice (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced radishes
Cilantro Rice:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, jalapeño, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the fish pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the fish from the marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with fish, Cilantro Rice, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Moroccan Fish Tagine with Saffron Rice
Discover the rich flavors of North Africa with this aromatic fish tagine and saffron-infused rice dish, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
– Saffron Rice (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, and saffron mixture; cook until onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add fish, diced tomatoes, and broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
Saffron Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt to taste
Combine rice and water in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Pineapple Fried Rice
A flavorful and visually appealing dish that combines the richness of grilled mahi-mahi with the sweetness of pineapple fried rice. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
For the Grilled Mahi-Mahi:
– 4 mahi-mahi fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lime juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Fried Rice:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 cup mixed veggies (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season mahi-mahi with olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill mahi-mahi for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender.
7. Stir in pineapple, garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
8. Combine cooked rice with the pineapple mixture and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 delicious fish and rice recipes! From classic pairings like garlic butter salmon with lemon rice to international twists like Japanese mackerel donburi rice bowl and Moroccan fish tagine with saffron rice, there’s something for everyone. Discover new favorites like spicy tuna poke bowl, coconut milk fish curry, and Mediterranean baked fish, or stick to comfort food classics like blackened tilapia with cilantro lime rice. Whatever your taste buds crave, these simple yet flavorful recipes will satisfy your cravings.
