Are you tired of eating the same old leftovers every night? Do you find yourself stuck in a culinary rut, wondering what to do with that piece of fish that’s been lingering in your fridge all week? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering and easy-to-make leftover fish recipes that will transform your humblest ingredients into a flavorful feast. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, savory, or simply satisfying, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic fish tacos with lime crema to hearty fish and potato chowder, we’ve got a little bit of everything on this list. So go ahead, get creative, and turn those leftovers into a culinary masterpiece. Let’s dive in!
Fish Tacos with Lime Crema
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful fish tacos, topped with a zesty lime crema and crispy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Lime crema (see below)
– Slaw mix (cabbage, carrots, etc.)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the fish fillets and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Cook the fish according to package instructions or until opaque and flaky.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked fish, lime crema, slaw mix, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish and Potato Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Fish and Potato Chowder is a simple yet flavorful meal that combines the freshness of fish with the creaminess of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the diced potatoes, fish stock, and milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Fried Rice
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor, fish fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice and veggies. This recipe adds protein-rich fish for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup cooked fish (e.g., cod, tilapia), flaked
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked fish; stir-fry until combined.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it.
5. Mix egg with rice mixture, breaking up any clumps.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this simple recipe for crispy fish cakes and a tangy tartar sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these flavorful bites are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tartar Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine fish, panko breadcrumbs, onion, egg, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Using wet hands, shape mixture into 6-8 patties.
4. Fry patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Tartar Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped pickle relish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve with fish cakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including frying time)
Fish Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this innovative fusion of fish and quesadillas, paired with a creamy avocado salsa. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together fish, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese. Add the fish mixture on top of the cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fish Pie with Cheesy Mash
This hearty fish pie recipe combines flaky cod, flavorful vegetables, and a creamy cheesy mash topping for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod fillets, skin removed and cut into chunks
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook cod chunks in butter until opaque and flaky.
3. Add mixed vegetables, onion, and garlic; stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, boil diced potatoes until tender. Drain excess water and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Top fish mixture with mashed potatoes and sprinkle grated cheddar cheese evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fish and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a flavorful and healthy combination of fish, colorful vegetables, and savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the fish pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked fish to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fish Croquettes with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized fish croquettes, perfectly paired with a rich and garlicky aioli. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
For the fish croquettes:
– 1 pound cod or haddock, flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the garlic aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine fish, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter). Coat with additional panko breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry croquettes until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. To make aioli, combine mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth.
5. Serve fish croquettes with garlic aioli for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Fish and Spinach Pasta Bake
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the freshness of fish with the richness of spinach and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook until flaky and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. In the same skillet, add spinach leaves and wilt with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, fish mixture, and spinach. Mix well.
6. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
7. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and fill with the pasta mixture. Top with cheese mixture.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fish Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce
Fish Benedict, a twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, features tender fish fillets smothered in a rich Hollandaise sauce and served atop toasted English muffins.
Ingredients:
– 4 English muffins
– 1 pound fish fillet (such as salmon or cod), cooked and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup Hollandaise sauce (see recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 3 egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins.
2. Top each muffin half with a spoonful of fish, a slice of Canadian bacon or ham, and a dollop of Hollandaise sauce.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes (includes cooking time for the fish)
Fish and Corn Fritters
Get ready for a crispy and flavorful treat with these Fish and Corn Fritters! This recipe combines the sweetness of corn with the tender flakes of fish, all wrapped up in a crunchy coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen fish (such as cod or tilapia), flaked
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish, corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and buttermilk.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Drop the batter by tablespoonfuls into the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Fish Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory goodness of fish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cod or tilapia fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together fish pieces, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the fish mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender and fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fish and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines flavorful fish with aromatic spices, creamy rice, and a crispy topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound white fish (such as cod or tilapia), flaked
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked fish, cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, and mixed vegetables.
3. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, mix milk and shredded cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Add the fish mixture, followed by the milk-cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fish and Avocado Salad Wraps
These vibrant wraps combine the flaky goodness of fish with the creamy richness of avocado, all wrapped up in a crunchy whole wheat package. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked fish (salmon, tilapia, or cod), flaked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine fish, avocado, cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Lay out the tortillas and spoon about 1/4 cup of the fish-avocado mixture onto each one.
3. Fold the bottom half up, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Fish and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines the flaky goodness of fish with the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cod fillet, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with cooked fish and onions in a serving dish.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fish and Cheese Melt Sandwich
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this Fish and Cheese Melt Sandwich is a quick and easy lunch or dinner option that’s sure to please. Fresh fish, melted cheese, and crispy bread come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 fish fillets (cod or tilapia work well)
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Place the fish fillets in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the cooked fish on one slice of bread, followed by a sprinkle of cheese, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise.
5. Place the other bread slice, buttered side up, on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Cook in the skillet for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fish and Lentil Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the delicate taste of fish with the comforting warmth of lentils. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups water or fish broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, and water or broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. Add fish and stir gently; cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fish and Herb Omelette
A classic breakfast or brunch option, this fish and herb omelette is a flavorful and healthy twist on the traditional omelette.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or dill)
– 1/4 cup cooked cod or other firm white fish, flaked
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until well mixed.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Sprinkle the chopped herbs and flaked fish evenly across half of the omelette.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette out of the skillet onto a plate and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 minutes
Summary
Looking for creative ways to use up leftover fish? You’re in luck! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes that will turn last night’s dinner into a delicious meal. From tacos and chowder to pasta bakes and fritters, we’ve got a recipe for every busy weeknight. Try our Fish Tacos with Lime Crema or Fish and Potato Chowder for a comforting treat. Or go international with Fish Cakes with Tartar Sauce or Fish Quesadillas with Avocado Salsa. With so many options, you’ll never get bored with leftovers again!