Name: One Pan Fish & Risoni
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean/Seafood
Ingredients: – 4 fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or snapper); – 1 tablespoon olive oil; – 1 small onion, chopped; – 2 cloves garlic, minced; – 1 cup risoni (or orzo pasta); – 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth; – 1 teaspoon lemon zest; – 1 tablespoon lemon juice; – 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; – 1/2 teaspoon paprika; – Salt and pepper to taste; – Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); – Lemon wedges for serving

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Picture this: a tender fish fillet, flaky and juicy, resting on a bed of perfectly cooked risoni. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its vibrant colors but also in the simplicity of it all. One pan, a few fresh ingredients, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels special yet doesn’t require a ton of effort. It’s a flavor-packed, wholesome dinner that comes together effortlessly and brings a little piece of the sea to your table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this all the time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile: Works for a light weeknight dinner or a fancy weekend meal with friends.

Budget-Friendly: Affordable ingredients that still deliver big on flavor.

Quick and Easy: In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a wholesome and satisfying meal on the table.

Customizable: You can swap in different fish, add your favorite herbs, or even throw in a handful of veggies for a twist.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or foodies, this dish strikes a perfect balance. The flavors are delicate yet full of character, making it universally loved.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for this one-pan wonder. Simple, fresh, and oh-so-delicious!

Fish Fillets

Choose your favorite! White fish like cod, snapper, or tilapia works best for this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb all the flavors of the dish.

Risoni (Orzo)

This tiny, rice-shaped pasta is perfect for soaking up the juices while adding a lovely texture to the dish.

Olive Oil

For sautéing and giving everything that rich, silky finish.

Garlic

Because, let’s face it, garlic makes everything better! You’ll sauté it until it’s fragrant and golden.

Lemon

A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds that perfect zesty finish.

Fresh Parsley

A handful of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh herby note.

Salt & Pepper

Simple seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the fish and pasta.

Vegetable or Chicken Broth

This adds depth to the risoni and keeps it moist while cooking.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this easy, flavor-packed meal:

Sauté Garlic

In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden—this will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma!

Cook the Risoni

Add the risoni to the pan and stir it around for a couple of minutes so it gets lightly toasted. Then, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the risoni is al dente.

Season the Fish

While the risoni cooks, season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Add the Fish

Place the seasoned fish fillets gently on top of the risoni. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.

Finishing Touches

Once the fish is done, sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for that refreshing pop of flavor.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the fish and risoni warm, and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors. The fish should be tender and juicy, while the risoni is rich and slightly lemony—simply irresistible!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 450 (approx.)

Note: Nutrition may vary slightly depending on specific ingredients used.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve One Pan Fish & Risoni

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a light yet satisfying meal. Here are a few more ideas:
– A slice of crusty bread to soak up the juices
– A chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
– Roasted or sautéed vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Choose a mild fish like cod or tilapia for the best texture and flavor balance.
– If you prefer your fish a bit crispy, pan-fry it first and then finish cooking it in the pan with the risoni.
– Add a handful of spinach or arugula to the risoni for an extra burst of greens.
– Make sure to check the fish for doneness by gently flaking it with a fork—it should be opaque and separate easily.
– Don’t skip the fresh lemon and parsley at the end—it’s what gives the dish that vibrant, fresh flavor!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of risoni?
Yes! Orzo is a great substitute, but you can also use any small pasta like ditalini or even couscous.

2. Can I use frozen fish fillets?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?
This is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the risoni ahead of time and just heat it up when you’re ready to cook the fish.

5. What other herbs can I use?
Thyme, dill, or oregano would be great substitutes for parsley. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!

6. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to the risoni while it’s cooking for more color and nutrients.

7. What kind of fish works best?
Mild, flaky white fish like cod, tilapia, or haddock are the best choices for this recipe.

8. Can I cook this in a different pan?
Yes! You can make this in any large pan with a lid. A skillet or sauté pan works great.

9. Can I use fish stock instead of broth?
Definitely! Fish stock will enhance the flavor of the fish even more.

10. What can I serve this with?
It pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or roasted veggies on the side.

Conclusion

This One Pan Fish & Risoni is proof that you don’t need a ton of ingredients or time to create a meal that’s both elegant and satisfying. With its fresh, delicate flavors and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of dish that will impress without stressing you out. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something that feels like a little gourmet treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

One Pan Fish & Risoni

Why You’ll Love This Recipe