Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Caribbean with our tantalizing Grilled Jerk Tilapia with Pineapple Coconut Salsa! This vibrant dish combines the bold flavors of jerk seasoning with the refreshing sweetness of pineapple and coconut, creating a perfect harmony that will leave you craving more. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a dish that looks as stunning as it tastes. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how to make your next meal unforgettable!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Caribbean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- 1/2 cup coconut, shredded
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the tilapia fillets by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures better seasoning adherence and more even grilling.
- Sprinkle jerk seasoning evenly on both sides of the tilapia fillets, gently pressing the seasoning into the fish to create a flavorful coating. Let the seasoned fish rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow the spices to penetrate.
- While the fish marinates, prepare the pineapple coconut salsa. In a medium bowl, combine diced pineapple, shredded coconut, finely chopped red onion, and fresh lime juice. Mix gently and season with a pinch of salt. Set aside to let flavors meld.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent the delicate fish from sticking.
- Place the seasoned tilapia fillets on the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the fish is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. Avoid overcooking to maintain moisture.
- Carefully transfer the grilled tilapia to serving plates. Top each fillet generously with the prepared pineapple coconut salsa.
- Garnish with additional fresh lime wedges and chopped herbs like cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while the fish is hot and the salsa is fresh.
Tips
- Pat the Fish Dry: Before seasoning, make sure to pat your tilapia fillets dry with paper towels. This step helps the jerk seasoning adhere better and promotes even grilling.
- Let It Marinate: Allow the seasoned tilapia to rest for about 10 minutes at room temperature. This lets the flavors penetrate the fish, enhancing the overall taste.
- Prepare the Salsa Ahead: For the best flavor, prepare the pineapple coconut salsa while the fish marinates. This allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a deliciously refreshing topping.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Ensure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high heat (around 400°F) and lightly oil the grates. This prevents the delicate tilapia from sticking and ensures perfect grill marks.
- Watch the Cooking Time: Grill the tilapia for about 3-4 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to dry fish, so keep an eye on it—when it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork, it’s done!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Serve your grilled tilapia with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro to elevate the dish and add a pop of color.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh off the grill, so serve it right away to savor the vibrant flavors and textures.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 200kcal
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 23g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 70mg
