Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta

Introduction

Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines crispy fried fish with a rich, buttery garlic pasta. The mild taste of tilapia is enhanced by the crispy fried coating, while the pasta brings a creamy and garlicky goodness that ties the whole meal together. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors. The lightness of the fish balances perfectly with the richness of the garlic butter sauce, making it a hit with seafood and pasta lovers alike. Let’s know a lot about Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta recipe now!

In this article, we’ll explore tips for cooking the perfect Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta, common mistakes to avoid, a fun fact, and why this dish is a wonderful option for those who enjoy fusion cuisine.

Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta

Recipe by Laica LimCourse: MainCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

14

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

• For the Fried Tilapia:

• 2 whole tilapia, cleaned and scored

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)

• Oil for frying

• 1 tbsp calamansi or lemon juice (optional)

• For the Garlic Butter Pasta:

• 250g spaghetti or your preferred pasta

• 4 tbsp butter

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped basil (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions for Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta:

• Cook the Pasta:
  – Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water for later.
  
• Prepare and Fry the Tilapia:
  – Season the tilapia with salt and pepper. Dredge each fish lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
  – Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the tilapia for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Set the fish aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  – (Optional) Drizzle some calamansi or lemon juice over the fried fish for added flavor.
• Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
  – In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned (about 2 minutes).
  – Add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice, and stir for another 30 seconds.
• Toss the Pasta:
  – Add the cooked pasta to the garlic butter sauce. Toss to coat evenly, adding a little pasta water if it seems too dry.
  – Season with salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
• Serve:
  Place the fried tilapia on a plate, and serve it with a side of garlic butter pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta

1. Choose Fresh Tilapia: Fresh tilapia has a clean, mild flavor and firm texture, which is perfect for frying. Make sure to dry the fish fillets with paper towels before frying to ensure a crisp crust.
2. Season the Fish Well: A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice on the tilapia before frying adds depth to its flavor. You can also add a pinch of garlic or onion powder for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: For the best texture, cook your pasta until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). This ensures that the pasta holds up well when tossed in the garlic butter sauce without becoming mushy.
4. Use Fresh Garlic for the Butter Sauce: Freshly minced garlic gives the butter sauce a rich, aromatic flavor. Saute it lightly in butter until fragrant, being careful not to burn it, as garlic can become bitter if overcooked.
5. Add a Touch of Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the garlic butter sauce, cutting through the richness and complementing the flavors of the fried tilapia perfectly.

Do’s and Don’ts for Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta

Do:

• Do use a non-stick pan for frying: A non-stick pan helps prevent the fish from sticking and makes frying easier, especially when cooking delicate tilapia fillets.
• Do toss the pasta immediately with the garlic butter sauce: After draining the pasta, toss it with the sauce while it’s still hot so that the pasta absorbs the buttery garlic flavors fully.
• Do garnish with fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds freshness and color to the dish, giving it a finishing touch of vibrancy.

Don’t:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying the tilapia: Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, which can result in soggy, greasy fish. Fry in batches if necessary.
• Don’t overcook the garlic: Cook the garlic just until fragrant, as burning it can make the butter sauce bitter and overpower the dish.
• Don’t skip the parmesan: A light sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top of the pasta adds a nutty flavor that complements the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Fun Fact

Did you know that tilapia is one of the oldest farmed fish species in the world? Dating back to ancient Egypt, tilapia was cultivated in ponds and enjoyed as a staple food. Today, tilapia remains one of the most popular fish in global cuisine due to its mild flavor, versatility, and sustainable farming practices. Its neutral taste makes it the perfect canvas for various culinary techniques, such as frying, grilling, or baking.

Conclusion

Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta is the perfect dish for those seeking a delicious, easy-to-make meal that combines the freshness of seafood with the rich flavors of garlic and butter. The crispy fried tilapia provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, garlicky pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its combination of textures and flavors.

By following a few simple tips—such as using fresh ingredients, cooking the pasta al dente, and frying the tilapia to golden perfection—you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and balanced. With its light yet satisfying nature, Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta is a versatile meal that you’ll want to make time and time again. Try Fried Tilapia with Garlic Butter Pasta now!

For more mouthwatering recipes click here!