Description
Sizzling blackened tilapia sparks culinary excitement with its bold Cajun-inspired flavors dancing alongside tender zucchini noodles. Seafood enthusiasts and health-conscious diners will savor this light, spicy meal that delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 tilapia fillets (6 ounces / 170 grams each)
- 2 large zucchini (about 1 1/2 pounds / 680 grams)
- 1 cup pico de gallo
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions
- Transform fresh zucchinis into delicate spiral noodles using a spiralizer, carefully trimming the ends to ensure uniformity and smooth texture.
- Create a robust spice blend combining cumin, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl for intense flavor infusion.
- Generously coat tilapia fillets with the prepared spice mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly and evenly seasoned.
- Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil, allowing the surface to become hot and ready for searing.
- Carefully place seasoned tilapia fillets into the heated skillet, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until the fish develops a rich, dark crust and becomes easily flakable.
- Remove the perfectly cooked tilapia from the skillet and set aside, keeping the fish warm and maintaining its temperature.
- In the same skillet, quickly sauté minced garlic until its aromatic essence fills the kitchen, releasing intense flavor.
- Gently introduce zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing constantly with tongs to prevent sticking and achieve a light, tender texture.
- Cook zucchini noodles for approximately 2 minutes, ensuring they remain crisp and do not become overly soft or mushy.
- Arrange zucchini noodles as a vibrant base on serving plates, creating an elegant foundation for the dish.
- Strategically place blackened tilapia fillets atop the zucchini noodles, showcasing the beautiful contrast of colors and textures.
- Garnish with fresh pico de gallo, adding a bright, tangy element that complements the spiced fish and delicate noodles.
- Serve immediately to preserve the optimal temperature and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Notes
- Spiralizer Tip: Choose fresh, firm zucchinis for the best noodle texture and avoid soggy results.
- Seasoning Hack: Toast spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing to enhance their flavor and depth.
- Fish Cooking Technique: Pat tilapia dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a crispy, well-seared exterior.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Replace zucchini noodles with cauliflower rice for a different nutritional profile without losing taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Southern (American)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg