17 Fish Recipes That Don’t Overcomplicate Things

Fish dishes can go in a hundred different directions, spicy, crispy, brothy, or baked with herbs and citrus, and they rarely need a ton of prep to shine. From light, summery bakes and zesty tacos to bold global stews and cozy soups, these recipes show just how much range fish can bring to the table. Whether you’re working with fresh fillets, firm steaks, or frozen standbys, there’s something here for weeknight dinners, weekend cookouts, and everything in between. If you’re ready to go beyond plain grilled fish, this list has options to keep things interesting.

Beer Battered Fish

Thick fish fillets are dipped in a bubbly beer batter and fried until golden. The crust gets light and crunchy, while the fish stays soft inside. Classic with fries and tartar sauce, but also great in tacos or sandwiches. A true pub favorite.
Get the Recipe: Beer Battered Fish

Easy Baked Fish Sticks

Breaded fish pieces bake until crisp on the outside and tender inside. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and taste fresher than store-bought. Dip them in tartar sauce, ketchup, or aioli. A nostalgic favorite with a homemade upgrade.
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Baked Lemon Butter Fish

This dish keeps things simple with fillets baked in a lemon butter sauce that stays light but rich. The lemon cuts through the fat, and the butter keeps the fish moist all the way through. Spoon the sauce over rice or roasted veggies for an easy dinner. Fast to make and always clean-tasting.
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Smoker Grilled Fish Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

Smoked fish adds a deep, savory flavor that holds up well against zippy coleslaw. The slaw is packed with garlic, lime, and fresh herbs. It’s a more layered version of your usual taco. Build-your-own style for feeding groups.
Get the Recipe: Smoker Grilled Fish Tacos with Garlic Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

Pan Fried Bell Fish

This simple method lets the skin crisp up while the inside stays juicy. Just a bit of oil, salt, and heat does the job. Great with lemon, rice, or a light dipping sauce. Fast, no-fuss, and always satisfying.
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Ukha Russian Fish Soup

A clear, brothy soup with white fish, potatoes, and carrots, seasoned with herbs and black pepper. It’s light but warming, and the fish stays tender without falling apart. Traditionally served with dill and a lemon wedge. A solid option for cooler days.
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Baked Fish with Fennel and Tomatoes

Fennel and tomatoes roast alongside fish, softening into a lightly sweet, aromatic base. The fish steams in its own juices while soaking up the flavor from the veggies. Everything goes in one dish, and it’s done in under an hour. Serve with crusty bread or a green salad.
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Cioppino – Fisherman’s Seafood Stew

This tomato-based stew blends fish, shrimp, clams, and more into a rich, garlicky broth. Serve with a hunk of bread to soak it all up. The seafood shines without any one thing taking over. It’s warming, messy, and made to be shared.
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Fish Tacos

These skip the batter and go grilled, pan-seared, or baked with a dry rub. Add avocado, salsa, slaw, or crema, whatever’s in your fridge. The fish stays front and center, with fresh toppings adding bite and brightness. Easy to batch cook for groups.
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Sheet Pan Blackened Tilapia Baja Fish Nachos

Tilapia is spiced, baked, and flaked over a sheet pan of nachos loaded with cheese and toppings. The fish adds heat and flavor that plays well with melty cheese and crispy chips. It’s easy to serve right from the tray. Good for game nights or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Blackened Tilapia Baja Fish Nachos

Oven Baked Fish with Summer Vegetables

Zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions roast with fish fillets in one dish. The juices mix together and create a light sauce that’s perfect for spooning over grains. Everything cooks evenly and stays vibrant. Great for using up end-of-season produce.
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Fish Stock

A clean, aromatic stock made from fish bones, celery, herbs, and onions. It’s lighter than chicken or beef stock but adds real depth to seafood soups and sauces. Simmer it gently and strain well. A good one to make and freeze.
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Mediterranean Baked Fish

White fish bakes under a topping of olives, capers, and chopped tomatoes. It’s salty, acidic, and aromatic from garlic and herbs. Serve it with couscous or roasted potatoes. It’s light but far from boring.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Baked Fish

Thai Fish Cakes

These little patties pack bold flavor with red curry paste, herbs, and lime. They pan-fry into golden, slightly crisp cakes that work with dipping sauce or slaw. Serve them as a starter or over rice for a meal. A great way to stretch a small amount of fish.
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Kerala Fish Curry

This South Indian recipe brings heat, coconut, and tang all in one pot. Tamarind and curry leaves give the sauce depth, while the fish cooks gently in the creamy base. Serve it with steamed rice or flatbread to soak up every drop. It’s bold without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Kerala Fish Curry

Baja Fish Tacos

White fish, lightly battered and fried, is tucked into tortillas with slaw and creamy sauce. The contrast of textures, hot, crispy fish and cool, crunchy slaw—is what makes it so satisfying. Add lime and hot sauce at the end. A staple that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Baja Fish Tacos

Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish

A sticky glaze made from apricot preserves and chili paste coats the fish before baking or broiling. The sugar caramelizes, leaving crispy edges and a sweet-spicy kick. Works well with firm fish like cod or salmon. It’s fast and delivers serious flavor with just a few ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Apricot-Chili Glazed Fish