This Coconut Lime Fish with Avocado Salsa is a light, refreshing, and tropical dish that brings together the creaminess of coconut milk, the tanginess of lime, and the freshness of avocado salsa. It’s healthy, packed with flavor, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special meal. The fish is gently pan-seared and bathed in a rich coconut lime sauce, then topped with a zesty avocado salsa that adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the Fish:
- 2 large white fish fillets (halibut, cod, or tilapia)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil
- ½ cup coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional for umami)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, diced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ½ jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)
- Juice of ½ lime
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Avocado Salsa
- In a bowl, combine the avocado, red onion, tomato, cilantro, and jalapeño.
- Add lime juice, salt, and olive oil.
- Gently toss everything together and set aside for the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Cook the Fish
- Pat the fish fillets dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Coconut Lime Sauce
- In the same pan, pour in coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, honey, and soy sauce.
- Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Assemble & Serve
- Place the cooked fish on a plate.
- Pour the coconut lime sauce over the fish.
- Spoon the avocado salsa on top.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with: Cilantro lime rice, coconut rice, or roasted sweet potatoes.
Drink pairing: Fresh coconut water, a tropical smoothie, or a light white wine.
Add a kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
Tips for the Best Coconut Lime Fish
✔ Use Fresh Fish – Fresh fillets hold their shape better and have a cleaner flavor.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Fish – White fish cooks quickly; remove it as soon as it flakes easily with a fork.
✔ Adjust the Sauce – Add more lime juice for tanginess or more honey for sweetness.
✔ Make it Dairy-Free – The coconut milk keeps this dish creamy without any dairy!
✔ Store Leftovers – Keep the fish and salsa separate in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Conclusion
This Coconut Lime Fish with Avocado Salsa is a flavor-packed, healthy dish that’s easy to make and bursting with tropical freshness. Whether you’re looking for a light summer meal or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite! 🌴🐟
Would you like a grilled version or a spicy variation?