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Pan Fry Tilapia with Pesto Cream Sauce Recipe

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4.3 from 15 reviews

A simple and flavorful pan-fried tilapia recipe served with a rich and creamy pesto sauce. This quick and easy dish combines perfectly seared tilapia fillets with a luscious sauce made from heavy cream, pesto, and lemon juice, making it an ideal weeknight meal ready in just 25 minutes.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

For the Tilapia

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

For the Pesto Cream 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

Instructions

  1. Heat Oil: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat (or medium if your stove runs hot) in a nonstick skillet to prepare for cooking the tilapia.
  2. Cook Tilapia: Add frozen tilapia fillets in a single layer and cook for 10-11 minutes, turning halfway through. Cook until the fillets are golden on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 145°F, then transfer to a plate.
  3. Prepare Sauce Base: Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream and pesto to the empty skillet to start building the sauce.
  4. Thicken Sauce: Whisk chicken broth with cornstarch and add to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring often, until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper, approximately 1/8 teaspoon each.
  5. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked tilapia to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Serve immediately over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk plus 1 teaspoon cornstarch for a lighter option.
  • Ensure tilapia reaches an internal temperature of 145°F to guarantee safe consumption.
  • The sauce can be adjusted in thickness by controlling the simmering time.
  • Serve with your choice of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice to complement the dish.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American