Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish Recipe for Perfect Dinner

Discover the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinner with this Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish recipe. Combining the rich, buttery crunch of macadamia nuts with tender, flaky fish fillets, this dish offers a satisfying texture and a delightful flavor profile that’s both sophisticated and approachable.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this recipe promises to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

The macadamia nuts add a unique twist compared to traditional breadcrumbs or panko, providing a subtle sweetness and a delicate crunch that perfectly complements the mild fish. Paired with a few simple seasonings and a quick pan-sear or oven-bake, this recipe is ideal for cooks of all skill levels.

Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice you can feel good about serving.

Let’s dive into the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions so you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the nut crust adds an irresistible crunch and a rich flavor that elevates any mild white fish like mahi-mahi, snapper, or cod.

Second, the recipe is simple and quick, perfect for busy weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry.

Finally, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, from fresh salads to roasted vegetables or even coconut rice, making it suitable for multiple meal occasions.

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (6 oz each; mahi-mahi, snapper, or cod work well)
• 1 cup macadamia nuts, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, for cooking
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Equipment

• Food processor or blender (to chop nuts finely)
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow dishes or plates for dredging
• Non-stick skillet or oven-safe pan
• Spatula or fish turner
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels (for drying fish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the nut crust: Place the macadamia nuts in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped but not ground into a powder. Transfer to a bowl and mix in the panko breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Prepare the egg wash: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until fully combined.
3. Prep the fish: Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Coat the fish: Dip each fillet first into the egg wash, letting any excess drip off, then press into the macadamia nut mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
5. Cook the fish: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the fillets and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the crust is golden brown and the fish flakes easily with a fork. Alternatively, you can transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 10-12 minutes.
6. Serve: Remove from heat, transfer to plates, and garnish with lemon wedges. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For an extra crunch, toast your macadamia nuts lightly in a dry skillet before chopping.

You can swap out the fish for chicken tenders or pork cutlets if you want to try a different protein with the same nut crust. For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of butter and ensure your panko is gluten-free if needed.

If you prefer a spicier crust, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the nut mixture. For a fresh herb twist, try incorporating chopped cilantro or basil instead of parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This macadamia nut crusted fish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light, refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast to the rich crust.

Roasted asparagus or green beans tossed with garlic and olive oil make for simple, flavorful vegetable sides. For a heartier meal, try coconut rice or quinoa cooked with herbs and lime zest.

Don’t forget a drizzle of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of tartar sauce to complement the nutty flavors of the crust.

Conclusion

With its perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, the Macadamia Nut Crusted Fish recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. It’s quick enough for a weekday meal yet elegant enough to serve guests, blending the buttery richness of macadamia nuts with the delicate flavor of fresh fish.

By following simple steps and using fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a new favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

For more delicious seafood ideas and easy dinner recipes, check out our Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon, Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi, and Crispy Baked Cod with Herb Sauce.

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