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Pan Fry Tilapia with Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe

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A quick and flavorful recipe for pan-fried tilapia served with a rich and creamy pesto sauce, perfect for a satisfying dinner in just 25 minutes. The tilapia is cooked to golden perfection and paired with a luscious pesto cream sauce that can be served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.

Ingredients

Fish

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 package Sea Cuisine Smart Indulgence Roasted Garlic and Herb Tilapia (frozen)

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk + 1 teaspoon cornstarch)
  • 1/3 cup pesto
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a nonstick skillet. Use medium heat if your stove runs hot to avoid burning the oil.
  2. Cook the tilapia: Place the frozen tilapia fillets in the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 11 minutes, turning the fillets halfway through, until they are golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F. Then transfer the cooked fish to a plate.
  3. Prepare the sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and pesto to the empty skillet. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth, then add this mixture to the skillet.
  4. Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper (about 1/8 teaspoon each) to taste.
  5. Combine and serve: Return the tilapia to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the fillets. Serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Use a nonstick skillet to prevent the fish from sticking when pan frying.
  • For a lighter sauce alternative, evaporated milk with cornstarch is a good substitute for heavy cream.
  • Ensure the tilapia reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F for proper doneness.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
  • The pesto cream sauce can be reheated gently on stovetop if prepared ahead.