Tilapia is a very light fish that isn't incredibly filling, so whether you are making my cheesy tilapia or your favorite tilapia recipe, it's essential to serve it with a side dish that will satisfy even the biggest appetites.
I've gathered some of my go-to side dish recipes as inspiration for what to serve with tilapia.
Looking for a quick answer?
The best tilapia side dish recipes are brussels sprouts, risotto, steamed dumplings, artichokes, and creamy coleslaw, to name a few.
So, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
- 1. Creamy Coleslaw
- 2. Steamed Vegetables
- 3. Wild Rice Soup
- 4. Crispy Corn Nuggets
- 5. Brussels Sprouts
- 6. Artichokes
- 7. Fruit Salsa
- 8. Broccoli and Cauliflower
- 9. Penne Alla Vodka
- 10. Steamed Dumplings
- 11. Potato Wedges
- 12. Coconut Rice
- 13. Red Potatoes
- 14. Classic Risotto
- Best Side Dishes For Tilapia
- More Recipes
- What to Serve With Tilapia
1. Creamy Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw is the classic side dish to serve with just about any type of fish. The key to making the perfect coleslaw is to eliminate as much moisture from the cabbage before adding in the rest of the ingredients. Too much water in the coleslaw will lead to separation. Squeeze as much excess water out of the veggies before mixing them in.
2. Steamed Vegetables
Another favorite of mine to serve with tilapia is some steamed vegetables. The nice thing about this recipe is that you can pretty much use any veggies that you have in the fridge. Carrots, broccoli, beans, cauliflower, and mushrooms are all healthy and delicious options.
3. Wild Rice Soup
Try this wild rice soup for something a little heartier that will keep you warm on a cold night. Loaded with wild rice, garlic, celery, and carrots, you will feel warm and fulfilled after eating this soup, and it will also give your immune system a massive boost of cold-fighting vitamins.
4. Crispy Corn Nuggets
Try these crispy corn nuggets if you want something new that the kids will love. If your kids love corn dogs or french fries, they will love this adaptation and probably won't even realize they are eating vegetables!
5. Brussels Sprouts
You really can't go wrong with brussels sprouts if you are wondering what to serve with tilapia. Finish them off with a sprinkle of paprika or a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a flavor boost.
6. Artichokes
Whole-cooked artichokes take a bit of work, but they are so worth it. To start, make sure you trim off the spikey leaf tips and the majority of the stem so that the artichokes can stand upright while cooking. For some added flavor, chop up some fresh parsley and garlic to stuff inside the leaves before you start cooking.
The tastiest part of the artichoke is the heart but don't forget to remove the fuzzy bit before eating it. The consistency and flavor are definitely not something you want in your mouth.
7. Fruit Salsa
This is an excellent option to pair with BBQ tilapia in the summertime. You can also make a nice mango or peach pico de gallo to top your tilapia by using some fresh Roma tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and some juicy mango or peaches.
8. Broccoli and Cauliflower
For a quick and easy side dish to serve with tilapia, try this broccoli and cauliflower recipe. Use your instant pot to have a tasty and healthy side dish ready to serve in under 10 minutes. Add some lemon zest to the recipe for an extra flavor burst.
9. Penne Alla Vodka
This bright and creamy pasta dish is the perfect pairing to serve with a light fish like tilapia. If you have a garden, this is the perfect opportunity to use some of the fresh tomatoes or herbs that you've been growing and really impress everyone with this fresh and flavorful meal.
10. Steamed Dumplings
These dumplings are an excellent side dish to serve with an Asian-inspired tilapia recipe. While these dumplings are vegan, you can always add your choice of meat to the filling, such as pork, chicken, or even shrimp. The best part is that you can use any leftover dumplings in a soup or stir fry the following day!
11. Potato Wedges
Resist the urge to serve up some frozen french fries with your tilapia and give these oven-baked potato wedges a try instead. Everyone will love these because they are so easily customizable to suit even the pickiest of eaters. Serve them up plain with a host of dipping sauces. Or sprinkle them with some parmesan and garlic before baking.
12. Coconut Rice
For a hint of the Caribbean, serve a nice blackened tilapia with this delicious coconut rice. Quick, simple, and packed with coconut goodness, any leftovers from this side dish can easily be turned into a rice pudding for dessert.
13. Red Potatoes
A simple potato side dish is always going to go over well with just about anyone. Plus, you can really tailor the flavors in this side dish however you want. Some fresh rosemary, basil, dill, thyme, or sage from the garden will give these potatoes the right amount of flavor and will also go well with your tilapia.
14. Classic Risotto
If Arborio rice isn't already a staple in your pantry, it should be because risotto is a classic dish that can be made with just about anything. It can be eaten as a meal on its own or served as a rich and creamy side dish. You can add mushrooms, squash, pumpkin, tomatoes, fresh herbs, and so much more. Learn this simple recipe, and risotto will become a go-to recipe in your home.
Best Side Dishes For Tilapia
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Steamed Vegetables
- Wild Rice Soup
- Crispy Corn Nuggets
- Brussels Sprouts
- Artichokes
- Fruit Salsa
- Broccoli and Cauliflower
- Penne Alla Vodka
- Steamed Dumplings
- Potato Wedges
- Coconut Rice
- Red Potatoes
- Risotto
More Recipes
What to serve with Stuffed Shells
What to Serve With Tilapia
Instructions
- Prepare your favorite tilapia recipe
- Choose and prepare your favorite side dishes such as Creamy Coleslaw, Steamed Vegetables, Wild Rice Soup, Crispy Corn Nuggets, Brussels Sprouts, Artichokes, Fruit Salsa, Broccoli and Cauliflower, Penne Alla Vodka, Steamed Dumplings, Potato Wedges, Coconut Rice, Red Potatoes, or Risotto.
- Serve fresh and enjoy!