Pan Fry Tilapia with Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe

Introduction

This Pan Fry Tilapia with Pesto Cream Sauce is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. The tender tilapia fillets paired with a rich, herbaceous pesto cream sauce make for a satisfying meal that can be served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 package Sea Cuisine Smart Indulgence Roasted Garlic and Herb Tilapia (frozen)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk + 1 teaspoon cornstarch)
• 1/3 cup pesto
• 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat (or medium if your stove runs hot) in a nonstick skillet.
2. Step 2: Add the frozen tilapia fillets in a single layer and cook for 10 to 11 minutes, turning halfway through. Cook until the outside is golden and the internal temperature reaches 145°F. Transfer the fillets to a plate.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to low. In the now-empty skillet, add the heavy cream and pesto.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Add this mixture to the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Step 5: Stir in lemon juice and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste (about 1/8 teaspoon each is suggested).
6. Step 6: Return the tilapia to the skillet and spoon the pesto cream sauce over the fillets. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk combined with 1 teaspoon cornstarch for thickness.
• Try adding sautéed garlic or fresh herbs like basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer, cook fresh tilapia fillets instead of frozen; adjust cooking time accordingly.

Storage

Store leftover tilapia and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the fish and curdling the sauce.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish instead of tilapia?

Yes, mild white fish like cod, haddock, or catfish can be used as a substitute, but cooking times may vary.

What if I don’t have pesto on hand?

You can make a quick pesto by blending fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, or use a store-bought pesto substitute such as a basil or spinach sauce.