Get ready to experience a burst of flavor with this delightful Mexican Baked Fish recipe! This dish combines the freshness of fish with bold Mexican spices, creating a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Baked fish dishes have a rich tradition in Mexican cuisine, often featuring fresh herbs, zesty lime, and flavorful peppers. Whether you’re seeking a lighter meal or something packed with protein, this recipe has it all.
Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, baking fish is one of the healthiest ways to cook it, preserving all the nutritious qualities without adding unnecessary fats.
Mexican Baked Fish in Oven
This version of Mexican baked fish is the perfect blend of tradition and modern cooking methods, offering a healthier alternative to fried fish without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Mexican Baked Fish recipe:
- Fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or snapper) – 4 fillets
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Lime juice – 2 tablespoons
- Chili powder – 1 teaspoon
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Diced tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz), drained
- Sliced jalapeños – 2 tablespoons
- Red onion – ½ medium, thinly sliced
- Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges – for serving
Optional Add-ons:
- Avocado slices
- Sour cream
- Tortillas for serving on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, start preparing the marinade for the fish.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth paste.
Step 2: Marinate the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Rub the marinade all over the fish fillets, making sure each one is evenly coated with the spice mixture. Let the fish sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Lightly grease a baking dish with some olive oil. Arrange the marinated fish fillets in a single layer.
- Pour the diced tomatoes over the top of the fish, followed by the sliced jalapeños and red onions.
Step 4: Bake the Fish
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Once the fish is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the baked fish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. You can also add avocado slices, sour cream, or serve the fish with warm tortillas for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your Mexican Baked Fish hot and fresh!
Tips and Variations
Tips for Success:
- What is the Best Fish to Eat Baked? For this recipe, mild-flavored fish like tilapia, cod, or snapper are ideal. They absorb the spices well and cook evenly in the oven.
- How Do You Carve Baked Fish? Use a spatula to gently lift the fillet from the baking dish. The fish should flake easily, and you can serve it whole or break it into smaller pieces.
- Is Oven Baked Fish Good for You? Yes! Baking fish is a healthier alternative to frying as it retains the protein and nutrients of the fish while cutting down on unnecessary fats.
Variations:
- Mexican Fish Stew: If you’re in the mood for something heartier, you can turn this baked fish into a stew. After baking the fish, break it into chunks and add it to a simmering pot of vegetables and broth for a Mexican-inspired fish stew.
- Easy Mexican Baked Fish Tacos: Use the baked fish to create delicious fish tacos. Simply flake the baked fish into warm tortillas and top with cabbage, salsa, and a drizzle of crema.
- Spicy Baked Fish: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of jalapeños or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
This Mexican Baked Fish recipe is the perfect way to bring a touch of Mexican flair to your kitchen. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that works equally well for a family dinner or when entertaining guests. The combination of spices, lime, and fresh ingredients makes this a meal that’s both healthy and delicious.