Ingredients for Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce

• 1 ½ pounds Tilapia fillets, fresh or frozen and thawed: The lean, mild star of this Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce, absorbing flavors beautifully. Choose fresh for best texture.
• 2 (12-ounce) jars roasted red peppers, drained: The absolute foundation and star of our rich, smoky sauce. Ensure they are well-drained to avoid a watery sauce.
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Essential for sautéing aromatics and achieving a beautiful sear on the tilapia. Use a good quality, robust olive oil.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet aromatic base, deepening the overall flavor of the roasted pepper sauce. Sauté until translucent for optimal sweetness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent aromatic that builds incredible depth and warmth in the sauce. Don’t let it brown; cook until fragrant.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the liquid base for the luxurious roasted pepper sauce. Use low-sodium to control the overall saltiness.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds crucial umami depth, a hint of sweetness, and a lovely rich color to the sauce. Cook it down slightly to intensify flavor.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: A bright, acidic touch that cuts through richness and enhances all the flavors. Freshly squeezed is always best.
• 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika: This spice is essential for boosting the smoky notes in your roasted pepper sauce. It really makes the flavor pop.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish: Adds vibrant freshness and a hint of peppery flavor. Stir into the sauce and sprinkle generously before serving.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste: Essential for seasoning both the tilapia and the sauce, balancing all the flavors. Adjust precisely to your personal preference.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste: Provides a gentle warmth and aromatic kick. Freshly ground pepper offers superior flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that adds earthy, aromatic notes, perfectly complementing the roasted pepper sauce. Rub between palms before adding.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a subtle, warming heat in their Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce. Add more if you like extra spice.

How to Make Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce

Prep Sauce Base:

Sauté the finely chopped onion in olive oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Meanwhile, blend drained roasted red peppers with broth until smooth for the sauce base.

Build Sauce:

Stir tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper into the softened aromatics. Pour in the blended pepper mixture. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Simmer Sauce:

Let the sauce simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This allows the flavors to deepen, creating a luscious base for your Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce.

Cook Tilapia:

Gently nestle the tilapia fillets into the simmering sauce. Cover the pan and cook for 8-12 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Avoid overcooking for tender results.

Finish Dish:

Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to your preference. The brightness of the lemon perfectly complements the rich, smoky Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce.

Serve Warm:

Garnish with extra fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve your delicious Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce immediately with a side of rice or crusty bread. Enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Store Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce

To store leftover Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. If left out too long, it can spoil quickly – don’t do what I did and forget it on the counter! Always check for an off smell or slimy texture before reheating.

You can prepare the roasted pepper sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it. Cook the tilapia fresh in the sauce just before serving for the best texture. Gently reheat the sauce and fish on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve with Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce

Serve your Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce warm for the best flavor experience. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for a beautiful presentation. This dish is perfect to pair with fluffy white rice or crusty artisan bread, ideal for soaking up every drop of that delicious sauce. Enjoy this comforting meal.

My personal favorite way to serve this is with creamy polenta. The rich, smoky sauce perfectly complements the polenta’s subtle sweetness and texture. It creates an incredibly satisfying and cozy meal to enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent a watery sauce when making Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce?

To prevent watery sauce, always drain your jarred roasted red peppers very well. Excess liquid truly dilutes the flavor, as I learned the hard way. Blend them completely smooth with the broth for a luscious base.

→ Can I use a different fish instead of tilapia for this roasted pepper sauce recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute other mild white fish like cod, snapper, or even mahi-mahi. Adjust cooking time slightly based on thickness to avoid overcooking. The sauce will still be delicious!

→ How long can I store leftover Tilapia in Roasted Pepper Sauce in the refrigerator?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always check for any off smells or slimy texture before reheating; I once forgot it on the counter, don’t do that!

→ Can I make the roasted pepper sauce ahead of time, or freeze it for later?

Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it. Cook the tilapia fresh in the sauce just before serving for the best texture. Freezing the cooked dish isn’t recommended as fish can become mushy.

→ What if I want to make a smaller or larger batch of this recipe?

You can easily scale this recipe up or down. For a larger batch, consider using a wider pan to ensure the fish cooks evenly. Remember to adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly for best results.