Name: Steamed Fish with Herbs and Spices
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 whole white fish or 4 fish fillets; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 small onion, thinly sliced; 1 tomato, thinly sliced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander; 1 lemon, sliced; 1 small chili, sliced; 1/4 cup water

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I prepare this steamed fish with herbs and spices when I want something light, clean, and full of fresh flavor. The gentle steaming keeps the fish tender and juicy while the herbs, garlic, and spices infuse every bite with warmth and brightness.

Steamed Fish with Herbs and Spices

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 whole white fish or 4 fish fillets

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon grated ginger

1 small onion, thinly sliced

1 tomato, thinly sliced

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon turmeric

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander

1 lemon, sliced

1 small chili, sliced

¼ cup water

Directions

I start by cleaning the fish thoroughly and patting it dry. If I use whole fish, I make a few shallow cuts on each side so the flavors soak in better.

I mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Then I rub this mixture all over the fish, making sure it gets into every cut and inside the cavity.

Next, I layer onion slices, tomato slices, lemon slices, chili, parsley, and coriander in a heatproof dish. I place the fish on top and pour water around it to keep everything moist during steaming.

I cover the dish and place it in a steamer over simmering water. I let it steam for about 20 to 25 minutes until the fish becomes tender and flakes easily.

Before serving, I spoon some of the flavorful juices over the fish. I like to serve it warm with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and timing

I prepare this recipe in about 40 minutes total, with 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking.

This recipe serves 4 people.

Each serving is approximately 260 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes switch the herbs depending on what I have available, using dill or basil instead of parsley and coriander. For a spicier version, I add extra chili or a pinch of chili flakes. I can also use fish fillets like cod or sea bass for a quicker cooking option. Occasionally, I add a splash of soy sauce for a slightly different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When I reheat it, I prefer using gentle steaming or a covered pan on low heat to keep the fish moist. I avoid microwaving too long because it can dry out the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish for this recipe?

I can use frozen fish, but I always make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before seasoning.

How do I know when the fish is cooked?

I check if the fish flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque all the way through.

Can I make this without a steamer?

I can improvise by placing a heatproof dish in a pot with a small rack and simmering water underneath, then covering it tightly.

What type of fish works best?

I like using white fish such as sea bass, cod, or tilapia because they stay tender and absorb flavors well.

Can I prepare this in advance?

I can season the fish and prepare the dish a few hours ahead, then keep it in the fridge until I’m ready to steam it.

Conclusion

I find this steamed fish with herbs and spices to be one of the easiest ways to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It combines freshness, warmth, and simplicity in one dish, and I always enjoy how light yet flavorful it turns out every time I make it.

📖 Recipe:

Steamed Fish with Herbs and Spices

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This steamed fish with herbs and spices is a light, flavorful dish featuring tender fish infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs. It’s a healthy and refreshing meal perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Clean the fish thoroughly and pat dry. If using whole fish, make shallow cuts on each side.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, paprika, turmeric, black pepper, and salt.
Rub the mixture evenly over the fish, including inside any cuts or cavity.
Layer onion slices, tomato slices, lemon slices, chili, parsley, and coriander in a heatproof dish.
Place the fish on top and pour water around it.
Cover the dish and steam over simmering water for 20 to 25 minutes, until the fish is tender and flakes easily.
Spoon the juices over the fish before serving and serve warm.