Introduction:
Welcome to a delicious and nutritious recipe for Pecan-Crusted Tilapia! This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a special meal or a quick weeknight dinner. The crunchy pecan crust pairs beautifully with the tender tilapia fillets, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful.
Origin and History Of This Recipe
Pecan-Crusted Tilapia is a popular dish that originated in the southern United States, where pecans are a common ingredient in traditional cooking. The combination of pecans and seafood is a classic pairing that highlights the rich, buttery flavor of the nuts and complements the delicate taste of tilapia. This recipe has become a favorite in many households for its simplicity and delicious results.
Things To Expect In This Post Article
In this post, we will discuss the ingredients needed to make Pecan-Crusted Tilapia, the preparation steps, cooking time, servings, nutritional information, health conditions to consider, personal touches, and much more. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this delectable dish!
Ingredients List
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking sheet.
- In a shallow dish, combine the chopped pecans, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each tilapia fillet into the pecan mixture, pressing gently to coat both sides.
- Place the coated fillets on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time & Servings
This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook and serves 4 people.
Personal Touch
Growing up in the South, pecans have always been a staple in my kitchen. This Pecan-Crusted Tilapia recipe is a favorite of mine for its crunchy texture and flavorful taste. It’s a simple dish that never fails to impress guests and family alike.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Pecan-Crusted Tilapia provides approximately 300 calories, 20g of protein, 15g of fat, and 20g of carbohydrates. This dish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.
Health Conditions And People To Avoid This
While Pecan-Crusted Tilapia is a nutritious and delicious dish, individuals with nut allergies should avoid this recipe. Additionally, those with seafood allergies or sensitivities to any of the listed ingredients should exercise caution when preparing or consuming this dish.
Nutrition and Benefits To The Body
Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Tilapia is a lean protein that is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients such as selenium, vitamin B12, and phosphorus. Together, these ingredients create a balanced and wholesome meal that can contribute to a healthy diet.
Disadvantages
Consuming excessive amounts of pecans can lead to weight gain due to their high calorie and fat content. It is important to enjoy this dish in moderation to avoid overindulging in unhealthy fats and calories. Remember, eating moderately is perfectly fine, but acquiring excess of this nutrients is harmful.
Tips and Tricks
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Try serving the Pecan-Crusted Tilapia with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the pecan crust.
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Shallow dish
- Oven
Variations or Substitutions
- Substitute tilapia with another white fish such as cod or halibut.
- Use almonds or walnuts instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest or fresh herbs to the pecan crust for a citrusy or aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pecan-Crusted Tilapia with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, and a side of wild rice pilaf or quinoa salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Pecan-Crusted Tilapia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crispy crust.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious Pecan-Crusted Tilapia recipe. Share your creations with us on social media and let us know how it turned out! Remember, cooking is a delightful experience that brings people together, so have fun in the kitchen and explore new flavors and techniques.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of fish for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any white fish such as cod, halibut, or even salmon for this recipe.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the pecan crust mixture for a touch of heat.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can coat the fish in the pecan mixture and refrigerate it for up to 3 hours before baking.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?
A: Yes, this recipe is low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats, making it a suitable option for a keto diet.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While not recommended, you can freeze the cooked fillets in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results.
