Name: Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup fresh orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water; Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

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If you’re dreaming about a dish that feels both restaurant-worthy and absolutely achievable on a busy weeknight, you’re going to fall in love with Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce. This zesty, flavorful meal blends tender white fish with a luscious citrus-infused glaze, resulting in a plate that’s as bright and beautiful as it is delicious. The sauce is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy notes, all coming together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving guests or simply treating yourself, Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce is a recipe that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part of making Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce is just how simple and accessible the ingredient list is. Every element, from the fresh orange juice to the buttery fish, plays a distinct role in creating that crave-worthy combination of rich flavor, tender texture, and gorgeous color.

White fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock): Choose fillets that are thick and flaky for the best texture and mild flavor that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Salt and pepper: A sprinkle brings the fish to life, highlighting all the natural flavors before the sauce even goes on.
Olive oil: For a golden, crisp exterior on your fish; it also adds a hint of fruitiness that pairs with the orange.
Butter: Adds richness and helps the fish brown perfectly in the pan.
Fresh orange juice: The star of the sauce, giving it that vibrant, sunshiny tang.
Orange zest: Intensifies the citrus flavor and gives a burst of aroma you’ll notice at first bite.
Honey: Balances the acidity of the orange and ties the sauce together with its subtle sweetness.
Soy sauce: Adds savory depth and a touch of umami, keeping all the flavors grounded.
Fresh ginger (grated): Brings a gentle heat and a slight zing that keeps the sauce lively.
Garlic (minced): Just a clove for depth, making the whole sauce aromatic and mellow.
Cornstarch mixed with water: Ensures the sauce thickens up to a glossy, beautiful glaze that clings to your fish.
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): For a fresh, eye-catching garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor.

How to Make Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce

Step 1: Season the Fish

Start by patting your white fish fillets dry with a paper towel, then sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step is key for both flavor and texture, ensuring your fillets have a perfect exterior, ready to soak up every drop of delicious orange sauce later on.

Step 2: Sear the Fish Fillets

In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle in your olive oil and then add the butter. Once the butter has melted and is gently bubbling, lay the fish fillets in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, aiming for a golden, slightly crisp surface and tender, flaky insides. Remove your cooked fish and keep them warm—trust me, the anticipation will build!

Step 3: Build the Orange Sauce

Still in the same skillet (it’s all about building layers of flavor!), pour in the fresh orange juice, then add the orange zest, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and minced garlic. Stir everything together as the aroma fills your kitchen and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3 to 4 minutes to help the flavors meld and concentrate.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

To give your sauce that glossy, luxuriously thick finish, stir in the cornstarch slurry, mixing until the sauce coats the back of your spoon. This takes just another 1 to 2 minutes, and you’ll see the transformation almost instantly.

Step 5: Return and Coat the Fish

Gently return the fish fillets to the skillet, spooning the vibrant orange sauce all over. Let the whole dish warm through for just about a minute, allowing the fish to soak up even more tangy-sweet goodness. Finish with a generous scattering of parsley or green onions right before serving! That’s it—the magic of Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce is ready for the table.

How to Serve Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce

Garnishes

A beautiful garnish isn’t just for looks! Sprinkle chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions over your Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce right before serving. Not only do they add a fresh hit of flavor, but their color makes the dish irresistibly vibrant on the plate.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside some creamy jasmine rice, which soaks up the extra orange sauce like a dream. Steamed or sautéed green vegetables like snap peas, asparagus, or bok choy are also perfect for balancing out the meal with something crisp and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce atop a bed of zoodles for a lighter, low-carb twist, or on a platter for a family-style meal. Individual plates with a citrus wheel or a dusting of extra zest add an elegant touch for special occasions—your guests will think you’ve gone gourmet!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce, let them cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to two days—perfect for a flavorful lunch salad or wrap later in the week.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze your cooked fish fillets and orange sauce separately (to help maintain the best texture). The fish keeps its quality for about one month in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a stress-free dinner later on.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the fish and sauce together in a skillet over low heat, adding just a splash of water or orange juice if the sauce has thickened up too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry the fillets out—low and slow on the stovetop is the way to preserve their tenderness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the fillets completely dry before starting. This helps prevent any excess moisture, ensuring a beautifully seared crust and perfectly textured Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce.

What kinds of fish work best for Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce?

Stick to firm, mild white fish such as cod, tilapia, haddock, or even halibut. These varieties hold up well during cooking and allow the orange sauce’s vibrant flavors to really shine.

Is this dish spicy, and can I add more heat?

As written, Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce is mild and family-friendly, but it’s super easy to adjust! Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil if you’d like a little more kick.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can whip up the orange sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to two days. Gently warm it in a saucepan before pouring over your freshly cooked fish for a quick and convenient meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Always check the labels if gluten sensitivity is a concern.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to delight family or impress guests, Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce delivers unforgettable flavor with minimal fuss. I hope you give this vibrant, easy, and mouthwatering recipe a spot in your regular dinner lineup—you’ll be amazed at just how quickly it disappears!

Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Delight your taste buds with this flavorful and vibrant dish of Fish Fillets in Orange Sauce. Tender white fish fillets are pan-seared to perfection and then smothered in a sweet and tangy orange glaze. This Asian-inspired dish is quick to make and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Fish Fillets:

4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
Salt and pepper to taste

Orange Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Season and Cook Fish: Season fish fillets with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Prepare Orange Sauce: In the same skillet, combine orange juice, zest, honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Simmer and thicken with cornstarch slurry.
Finish Dish: Return fish to the skillet, coat with sauce, and warm through. Garnish with parsley or green onions.