Description
The Blackened Tilapia with Zucchini Noodles is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines the spicy, smoky notes of blackened tilapia with the lightness of zucchini noodles. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- Zucchini: 2 large (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- Ground Cumin: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Salt: 3/4 teaspoon, divided
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Tilapia Fillets: 4 (6 ounces each)
- Olive Oil: 2 teaspoons
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Pico de Gallo: 1 cup
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- Trim the ends of the zucchinis.
- Using a spiralizer, cut the zucchinis into thin strands to create noodles.
- Season the Tilapia:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sprinkle this seasoning mixture generously onto both sides of the tilapia fillets.
- Cook the Tilapia:
- Heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned tilapia fillets to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove the tilapia from the skillet and keep warm.
- Prepare the Zucchini Noodles:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat for approximately 2 minutes, tossing constantly with tongs, until they are slightly softened. Be careful not to overcook.
- Sprinkle the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt over the noodles.
- Serve:
- Place the zucchini noodles on serving plates.
- Top with the blackened tilapia fillets.
- Spoon pico de gallo over the fish and noodles.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- If pico de gallo is unavailable, a fresh salsa can be used as an alternative.
- This dish pairs well with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet with zucchini noodles
- Calories: 203
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 522mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 34g