Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Name: Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 white fish fillet (tilapia, cod, or sole); 1 cup baby potatoes or Yukon gold, cubed; 1 ripe avocado; Olive oil; Salt and pepper; Garlic powder; Smoked paprika; Lime juice

Published: September 6, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 35 minutes to make from start to finish, ideal for a speedy dinner.
Flavorful Trio: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a delicious blend of flavors that everyone will love.
Versatile Ingredients: Use any white fish you prefer and customize the guacamole with your favorite add-ins.
Nourishing Meal: Packed with healthy fats from the avocado and protein from the fish, this recipe is both satisfying and nutritious.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the perfect Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick skillet
Baking sheet
Mixing bowl
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick skillet: Ensures your fish cooks evenly without sticking, leading to a perfect sear.
Baking sheet: Ideal for roasting potatoes evenly, giving them that crispy texture you desire.
Mixing bowl: Helps in easily combining ingredients for guacamole without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Fish:

1 white fish fillet (tilapia, cod, or sole)
1 tsp olive oil or butter
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (to taste)

For the Potatoes:

1 cup baby potatoes or Yukon gold, cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper

For the Guacamole:

1 ripe avocado
1 tbsp chopped tomato
1 tbsp chopped red onion or green onion
Lime juice and salt, to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Step 1: Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss the cubed potatoes in olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Spread them out on a baking sheet.
Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.

Step 2: Cook the Fish

While the potatoes are roasting, season your fish fillet with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter.
Place the seasoned fish in the hot pan.
Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until cooked through and lightly crisped.

Step 3: Make the Guacamole

In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork until desired smoothness is reached.
Stir in chopped tomato, red onion (or green onion), lime juice, and salt to taste.
Keep it slightly chunky for added texture.

Step 4: Plate and Serve

Arrange the pan-seared fish on a plate alongside roasted potatoes.
Add a generous scoop of guacamole next to them.
Serve warm with an optional squeeze of fresh lime juice on top if desired!

How to Serve Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Serving Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole is a delightful experience that combines vibrant flavors and textures. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate your dish!

Pair with Fresh Salad

Mixed Greens: A light, crisp salad with arugula or spinach complements the richness of the fish.
Cucumber Salad: Cool and refreshing, cucumber salad adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy guacamole.

Add a Zesty Dressing

Cilantro Lime Dressing: Drizzle this over your fish for an extra burst of flavor.
Creamy Avocado Dressing: Use leftover avocado from the guacamole to whip up a smooth dressing.

Serve with Warm Tortillas

Corn Tortillas: Warm tortillas can serve as a vessel for the fish and guacamole, creating tasty bites.
Flour Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas make it easy to create wraps with all components.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added freshness.
Chives or Green Onions: Finely chopped chives enhance flavor and add color.

How to Perfect Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your meal shines!

Bold seasonings: Use a generous amount of salt, pepper, and spices on your fish for maximum flavor.
Hot pan: Ensure your pan is hot before adding the fish; this helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
Quality ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the fish and avocados, for better taste.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the fish in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Rest before serving: Let the fish rest for a minute after cooking to retain its juices and improve texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can create a well-rounded dining experience. Consider these fantastic options!

Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds elegance and crunch to your plate.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the flavors of your main dish while being fun to eat.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad mixed with vegetables provides additional nutrients.
Coleslaw: A tangy slaw offers contrast in texture and flavor, complementing the fish beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts bring a savory element that pairs well with roasted potatoes.
Tomato Salsa: Fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and herbs brightens every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season the fish and potatoes adequately. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and spices for maximum flavor.
Overcrowding the pan: If you place too many pieces of fish in the pan at once, they won’t sear properly. Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that crispy texture.
Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to unevenly cooked potatoes. Always ensure it’s at 425F (220C) before adding your potatoes.
Ignoring guacamole texture: Some may mash the avocado too much, resulting in a smooth dip. Keep it slightly chunky for a better bite and texture contrast.
Neglecting to flip potatoes: Forgetting to flip your potatoes halfway through roasting can lead to uneven crispiness. Set a timer as a reminder!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

- Duration: Store leftovers for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the flavors intact.

Freezing Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

- Duration: Freeze for up to 1 month.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible.

Reheating Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Place fish and potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking frequently until warmed through. This method is quicker but may not retain crispiness.
Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fish and potatoes, reheating for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen fish for Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole?

Yes, you can use frozen fish. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

What type of white fish is best for this recipe?

Tilapia, cod, or sole are great options due to their mild flavor and flaky texture when cooked.

How can I customize my guacamole?

You can add ingredients like cilantro or jalapeños for extra flavor or spice according to your taste preferences.

What sides pair well with Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole?

A fresh side salad or steamed vegetables make excellent companions, enhancing both nutrition and presentation.

Final Thoughts

Pan-Seared Fish with Roasted Potatoes & Guacamole offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that is both comforting and nutritious. This versatile dish allows for customization based on your preferences—whether you want different spices or additional toppings on your guac. Give it a try; you’ll love how quickly it comes together!

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