Pan-Seared Spiced Fish with Fresh Avocado Salsa

Suggested Meal Time: Lunch or Dinner
Estimated Calories: ~380–450 kcal per serving

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Fish

• 2 fish fillets (tilapia, snapper, cod, or salmon)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• Juice of ½ lime

For the Avocado Salsa

• 1 large ripe avocado, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 small jalapeño or green chili, minced (optional)

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Avocado Salsa

1. In a mixing bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (optional).

2. Add lime juice and olive oil.

3. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Gently fold everything together.

5. Cover and refrigerate while you cook the fish to keep it fresh.

2. Season the Fish

1. Pat the fish fillets dry with a paper towel.

2. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt.

3. Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the fish.

4. Squeeze lime juice over the fillets.

3. Cook the Fish

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

2. When the pan is hot, place the fish fillets in.

3. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.

4. Fish should be golden, slightly crisp outside, and flaky inside.

5. Remove from the pan and rest for 1 minute.

4. Assemble and Serve

1. Place the seared fish on a plate.

2. Spoon a generous amount of avocado salsa on top.

3. Serve with extra lime wedges.

Serving Notes

• Works great with rice, quinoa, tacos, or roasted vegetables.

• For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper to the fish seasoning.

• For extra freshness, add diced tomatoes to the avocado salsa.

Who Will Enjoy This Dish

• People who love light, fresh, and flavorful meals.

• Those following low-carb, high-protein, or Mediterranean-style eating.

• Great for quick weekday dinners.

Energy-Saving Tips

• Use a nonstick pan to shorten cooking time.

• Make the salsa ahead and store in the fridge to save prep time.

• Cook two servings at once in a large pan.