Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that packs a flavorful punch? Dive into the vibrant world of Cajun cuisine with our mouthwatering Cajun Tilapia with Lemon Tarragon Tartar Sauce! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that not only looks stunning on your plate but also bursts with zesty flavors that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next dinner party. Get ready to savor the perfect blend of spices and creamy tartar sauce that will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 tilapia fillets, 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 lemon, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon (chopped), and salt to taste.
- Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat. You can use a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron skillet for best results.
- While the skillet is heating, season the tilapia fillets. Rub each fillet with the Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides, ensuring they are well coated.
- Once the skillet is hot, add a small amount of oil (like olive oil or vegetable oil) to the pan to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the seasoned tilapia fillets in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and flakes easily with a fork.
- While the tilapia is cooking, prepare the lemon tarragon tartar sauce. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, the juice of one lemon, and the chopped tarragon. Stir until well mixed.
- Once the tilapia is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a plate for a minute. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve the Cajun tilapia fillets hot, accompanied by the lemon tarragon tartar sauce on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy your delicious Cajun Tilapia with Lemon Tarragon Tartar Sauce!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh tilapia fillets and high-quality mayonnaise. Fresh herbs like tarragon can make a significant difference in taste.
- Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure your skillet is preheated before adding the fish. This ensures a nice sear and helps to lock in the moisture, giving you perfectly cooked tilapia.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you're cooking more than four fillets, do it in batches. Overcrowding can lower the temperature of the skillet and result in steaming rather than frying.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Start with a smaller amount and adjust according to your spice preference.
- Let the Fish Rest: After cooking, allow the tilapia to rest for a minute before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more succulent.
- Experiment with Sides: Pair your Cajun tilapia with a side of rice, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Make Extra Sauce: If you love the lemon tarragon tartar sauce, consider doubling the recipe. It makes a great dip for veggies or a spread for sandwiches!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 313kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
