9 Whole Tilapia Recipes for a Flavor-Packed Feast

A whole tilapia on your dinner table symbolizes both abundance and culinary adventure, waiting to be transformed by your hands.

You’ll find these nine recipes span the globe, from Moroccan spices to Asian glazes, each offering a distinct approach to this versatile fish.

Whether you’re craving the aromatic warmth of tandoori spices or the invigorating zest of lemon-herb combinations, these dishes will elevate your seafood repertoire beyond the ordinary.

What’s your next flavor destination?

Moroccan Spiced Whole Tilapia With Preserved Lemon

This vibrant Moroccan-inspired tilapia dish combines aromatic spices with tangy preserved lemon for a flavorful and impressive meal. The whole tilapia is coated with a fragrant spice mixture before being roasted to perfection, creating a delicious centerpiece for any dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1 pound each), cleaned and scaled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the tilapia inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to form a paste.

Step 3: Rub the spice paste all over the fish, including inside the cavity and into the slashes.

Step 4: Stuff half of the chopped preserved lemon, cilantro, and parsley inside each fish cavity.

Step 5: Place the fish on a lined baking sheet. Arrange lemon slices on top and around the fish.

Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Herb-Stuffed Tilapia With Lemon Garlic Butter

This delicate herb-stuffed tilapia delivers mouthwatering flavor in every bite. The combination of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic butter creates a sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special without hours of work.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets (6-8 oz each)
• 2 cups fresh herb mix (parsley, dill, cilantro, chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 lemon, half juiced and half sliced
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a bowl, mix 1½ cups of the fresh herbs, half the minced garlic, diced onion, breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the stuffing.

Step 3: Lay tilapia fillets flat and place 2-3 tablespoons of the herb mixture on one half of each fillet. Fold the other half over and secure with toothpicks if needed.

Step 4: In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, paprika, cumin, and remaining herbs.

Step 5: Place stuffed tilapia on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each fillet generously with the lemon garlic butter mixture.

Step 6: Top each fillet with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and arrange lemon slices around the fish.

Step 7: Bake for 15-20 minutes until fish flakes easily with a fork and is opaque throughout.

Step 8: Remove from oven and drizzle with remaining lemon garlic butter before serving.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Calcium: 150mg

Crispy Oven-Baked Whole Tilapia With Mediterranean Herbs

This impressive whole tilapia dish brings the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. With a crispy herb-crusted exterior and tender, flaky fish inside, this recipe makes for a stunning centerpiece that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.

The aromatic blend of herbs and lemon creates a delicious flavor profile that complements the mild taste of tilapia perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 pounds each), scaled and gutted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced into rounds
• Fresh herb sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 2: Rinse the tilapia thoroughly inside and out under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, oregano), paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet. Rub the herb mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity and into the slashes.

Step 5: Stuff the cavity of each fish with a few lemon slices and herb sprigs.

Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. The skin should be crispy and golden.

Step 7: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices before serving.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 285 per serving
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Coconut Curry Whole Tilapia With Fragrant Jasmine Rice

Transport your taste buds to Southeast Asia with this aromatic coconut curry whole tilapia served with jasmine rice. This dish combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with rich coconut milk, vibrant spices, and fresh herbs, creating a perfectly balanced meal that’s both impressive and surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 lbs), cleaned and scored
• 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 red chili, thinly sliced (optional for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups water (for rice)

Instructions:

Step 1: Rinse the jasmine rice until water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine rice with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.

Step 2: While rice is cooking, prepare the tilapia. Pat dry with paper towels. Score the fish on both sides with 3-4 diagonal cuts. Season with salt and pepper, rubbing seasoning into the cuts.

Step 3: In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Place the whole tilapia in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove fish and set aside.

Step 4: In the same pan, add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Stir in curry powder and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic. Add red bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 6: Pour in coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and cook for 2 minutes. Return the fish to the pan, spooning some sauce over it. Cover and simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until fish is cooked through.

Step 7: Add lime juice to the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and divide among serving plates. Place the tilapia on top or alongside the rice and spoon curry sauce over both.

Step 9: Garnish with lime zest, fresh cilantro, green onions, and chili slices if using. Serve immediately.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 310mg
• Serving size: ¼ whole fish with ½ cup rice and sauce

Tandoori-Style Whole Tilapia With Cooling Raita

This aromatic tandoori-style tilapia brings the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine right to your dinner table. The whole fish is marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then roasted until tender and flaky. Paired with a revitalizing cucumber raita, this dish offers the perfect balance of bold spices and cooling elements.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 lbs each), cleaned and scored
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

For the raita:

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1 medium cucumber, grated and excess water squeezed out
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Rinse the tilapia thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to allow the marinade to penetrate.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

Step 3: Coat the tilapia with the marinade, making sure to rub it into the cuts and cavity. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4-6 hours for the best flavor.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly oil it.

Step 5: Remove the fish from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the fish on the prepared baking sheet and brush with vegetable oil.

Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 7: While the fish is baking, prepare the raita by combining yogurt, grated cucumber, mint, cilantro, cumin, and salt in a bowl. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 8: Once the fish is done, carefully transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with the revitalizing raita and lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 310 per serving
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Lemon-Herb Grilled Whole Tilapia With Summer Vegetables

Grilled whole tilapia is a delicious, healthy dinner option that’s perfect for summer entertaining. This Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of tilapia with bright lemon, fresh herbs, and seasonal vegetables for a complete meal that cooks quickly on the grill.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 pounds each), scaled and gutted
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 zucchini, sliced diagonally
• 1 yellow squash, sliced diagonally
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Clean the grates well and oil them to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Rinse the tilapia thoroughly inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels. Make 3-4 diagonal slits on each side of the fish, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.

Step 3: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, half of the chopped herbs, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Brush the fish inside and out with the herb mixture, making sure to get some into the slits and cavity. Stuff the cavity with some lemon slices and remaining herbs.

Step 5: In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 6: Place the vegetables on one side of the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Remove and keep warm.

Step 7: Place the fish on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

Step 8: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter, surround with the grilled vegetables, and garnish with any remaining herbs and lemon slices.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 310 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Vitamin A: 25% DV
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Cajun Blackened Whole Tilapia With Southern-Style Sides

This Cajun blackened whole tilapia brings the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine right to your dinner table. The fish is coated in a bold, spicy Cajun seasoning blend and seared to perfection, creating a flavorful crust while keeping the flesh tender and moist.

Paired with classic Southern sides like collard greens and creamy grits, this dish offers a complete meal that’s both satisfying and impressive.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 lbs each), scaled and gutted
• 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 lemons, one sliced for stuffing, one cut into wedges for serving
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 bunch collard greens, stems removed and chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Rinse the tilapia thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity and within the cuts.

Step 3: Stuff each fish cavity with lemon slices and some minced garlic. Let the fish marinate for 15-30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: While the fish marinates, prepare the collard greens. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute. Add the chopped collard greens and stir until they begin to wilt.

Step 6: Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the greens are tender. Season with apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Step 7: For the grits, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Slowly whisk in the grits to avoid lumps. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until thick and creamy.

Step 8: Remove the grits from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 9: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking. Carefully place the tilapia in the hot skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until blackened and cooked through.

Step 10: Serve the blackened tilapia on a platter with the cheesy grits and collard greens on the side. Garnish with lemon wedges.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Calcium: 35% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

Honey-Ginger Glazed Tilapia With Asian-Inspired Slaw

This light and flavorful dish combines tender tilapia fillets glazed with a sweet and tangy honey-ginger sauce, paired with a crisp Asian-inspired slaw. The combination creates a perfectly balanced meal that’s both healthy and satisfying, ready in under 30 minutes for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 4 tilapia fillets (about 6 oz each)
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 lime, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups shredded cabbage (green and purple mix)
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

Step 1: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, half the lime juice, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil to create the glaze.

Step 2: Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the tilapia in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Pour the honey-ginger glaze over the fish and cook for another 1-2 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the fillets until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: While the fish cooks, prepare the slaw by combining cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro in a large bowl.

Step 6: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining lime juice, lime zest, rice vinegar, and remaining sesame oil. Pour over the slaw and toss to coat.

Step 7: Sprinkle the slaw with sesame seeds and toss again.

Step 8: Serve the glazed tilapia over the Asian slaw, drizzling any remaining glaze from the pan over the fish.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 580mg

Stuffed Whole Tilapia With Crab and Herb Filling

This elegant seafood dish combines the delicate flavors of tilapia with a rich crab and herb stuffing. The whole fish is baked to perfection, creating a stunning centerpiece for special occasions while remaining simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The herbs and lemon enhance the natural flavors of both the tilapia and the crab meat.

Ingredients:

• 2 whole tilapia (about 1-1.5 pounds each), scaled and gutted
• 8 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small shallot, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
• 1 lemon, half sliced and half juiced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herb sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Step 2: Rinse the tilapia under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make 3 diagonal slashes on each side of the fish, about 1/4 inch deep.

Step 3: Season the cavity of each fish with salt and pepper.

Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, parsley, dill, chives, garlic, shallot, Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to avoid breaking up the crab lumps.

Step 5: Stuff the cavity of each tilapia with the crab mixture, dividing it evenly between the two fish.

Step 6: Place the stuffed fish on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the fish and season the outside with salt and pepper.

Step 7: Place lemon slices on top of the fish and in the baking dish. Pour the chicken broth around (not over) the fish.

Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).

Step 9: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter, garnish with fresh herb sprigs, and serve immediately.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 310 per serving
• Protein: 42g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Calcium: 120mg
• Iron: 2.5mg

Final Thoughts

With these nine tilapia recipes in your culinary arsenal, you’re ready to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast.

Like a painter with a palette of vibrant colors, you’ll create dishes that tell stories from around the world.

Whether you’re craving bold spices or subtle herbs, there’s a tilapia recipe that’ll satisfy your palate and impress your guests.

Don’t just cook fish—craft an experience.