Dive into the vibrant flavors of Mexico with Veracruz Style Tilapia, a dish that effortlessly blends simplicity and sophistication. This easy-to-make recipe features tender tilapia fillets simmered in a robust tomato-based sauce infused with briny green olives, tangy capers, and the subtle heat of pickled jalapeños. Aromatic garlic, fresh cilantro, and a hint of oregano elevate the dish, while lime wedges add a zesty finishing touch. Perfect for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests, this one-pan seafood meal is ready in just 40 minutes and pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad. Rich in bold, authentic flavors, Veracruz Style Tilapia is the ultimate way to bring the essence of coastal Mexico to your table!
Rinse the tilapia fillets under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to break down and form a sauce.
Mix in the sliced olives, capers, pickled jalapeños, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaf, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Gently nestle the seasoned tilapia fillets into the sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the fillets.
Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
Remove the skillet from heat and discard the bay leaf. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the dish.
Serve the tilapia with lime wedges on the side. Pair with warm tortillas, rice, or a green salad for a complete meal.
Calories |
1268 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.7 g | 93% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.2 g | 66% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 228 mg | 76% | |
| Sodium | 6233 mg | 271% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 56.0 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.7 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.1 g | ||
| Protein | 116.1 g | 232% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 354 mg | 27% | |
| Iron | 9.7 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 3104 mg | 66% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.