Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds from the vibrant streets of India to a refreshing tropical paradise! This Garam Masala Indian Spiced Tilapia with Watermelon Salsa is not just a recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the warmth of traditional Indian spices with the cool, sweet crunch of summer watermelon. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a dish so stunning and delicious that it will make your weeknight dinner feel like a gourmet restaurant experience.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 tilapia fillets
- 2 tablespoons garam masala
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups watermelon, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Pat the tilapia fillets dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they will crisp nicely when cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix the garam masala with salt, creating a uniform spice blend for coating the fish.
- Generously sprinkle the garam masala mixture evenly over both sides of each tilapia fillet, gently pressing the spices into the fish to help them adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the seasoned tilapia fillets into the hot skillet, cooking for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until the fish is golden brown and easily flakes with a fork.
- While the fish cooks, prepare the watermelon salsa by combining diced watermelon, finely chopped red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro in a medium bowl.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the watermelon salsa and gently toss to combine, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once the tilapia is cooked through, transfer the fillets to serving plates and top generously with the fresh watermelon salsa.
- Garnish with additional cilantro leaves if desired, and serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of warm spiced fish and cool, refreshing salsa.
Tips
- Pat the tilapia fillets completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Use fresh, high-quality garam masala for the most authentic and robust flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the fish—this ensures each fillet gets perfectly crisp.
- Let the tilapia rest for a minute after cooking to help retain its moisture.
- Choose ripe, sweet watermelon for the salsa to balance the spicy fish perfectly.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the warm, spiced fish and cool salsa.
- For extra heat, consider adding a small diced jalapeño to the watermelon salsa.
- If you don't have fresh cilantro, mint can be a great alternative in the salsa.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
