Easy Garlicky Moroccan Fish

When it comes to vibrant, flavor-packed dishes that bring a bit of North African sunshine right into your kitchen, this Garlicky Moroccan Fish recipe is a real winner. Made with tender white fish fillets, aromatic garlic, and warm Moroccan spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, it’s a meal that’s both wholesome and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a special occasion, this recipe delivers bold flavors with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You’ll love how easy this is to prepare, and it will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is bursting with authentic Moroccan flavors, combining garlic, cumin, paprika, and turmeric to create a dish that’s both hearty and healthy. It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for anyone following a balanced diet. Plus, it’s quick to whip up—ready in about an hour including marinating time—and you can customize it easily with your favorite fish or veggies. Great for meal prep, family dinners, or whenever you want to enjoy a taste of Morocco at home.

Ingredients

The image features a beautifully presented dish of fish served over a bed of white rice. The fish, likely cod or another flaky white fish, is cooked to perfection and topped with a vibrant red sauce that appears rich and flavorful, possibly containing tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. The sauce is garnished with finely chopped green herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, adding freshness and color contrast. In the background, there are additional elements: a bowl of bright green vegetables, likely snap peas, and another plate with a similar dish, suggesting a well-balanced meal. The overall presentation is clean and inviting, highlighting the dish’s simplicity and appeal.

Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful Moroccan fish:

• 1½ lbs white fish fillets (such as cod, halibut, or tilapia) — choose firm fish for best results
• 6 cloves garlic, minced — garlic is the star here, so don’t skimp!
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin — adds earthy warmth
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika — gives that signature Moroccan color and flavor
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) — for a subtle kick
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped — bright and herbaceous
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped — adds freshness and balance
• Juice of 1 lemon — for a zesty, bright finish
• Salt and pepper, to taste — to bring everything together
• 3 tablespoons olive oil — the base for your marinade and cooking
• 1 large onion, sliced — sweet and soft
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced — for color and sweetness
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced — adds nice texture and flavor contrast
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped — the sauce foundation
• ½ cup water — to simmer and create a luscious sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, optional cayenne pepper, chopped cilantro, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to blend the flavors.

2. Marinate the Fish

Rub this fragrant marinade all over your fish fillets, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Let the fish rest and soak up the flavors for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This step really makes a difference by infusing your fish with all the vibrant Moroccan spices.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced onions and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent.

Add the sliced red and green bell peppers to the pan and cook for another 4–5 minutes. You want the peppers tender but still with a slight crunch to add texture.

4. Build the Sauce

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook the mixture for about 5 more minutes. The tomatoes will start breaking down, creating a chunky, fragrant sauce that perfectly complements the fish.

Pour in ½ cup of water and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

5. Add the Fish and Simmer

Carefully nestle the marinated fish fillets on top of the vegetable mixture. Spoon any remaining marinade over the fish to maximize flavor.

Cover the skillet and let the fish simmer gently for 10–12 minutes. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork and turns opaque throughout.

Tips and Tricks

• Use firm white fish fillets like cod or halibut as they hold up well during cooking and soak up flavors beautifully.
• If you like a little heat, add a pinch more cayenne pepper or even some harissa for a smoky spice boost.
• Don’t skip the marinating step! Even 20 minutes makes a huge difference in flavor.
• Layering the vegetables underneath the fish keeps it moist and infuses everything with delicious aromas.
• Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley aren’t just for garnish — they add brightness and balance to the dish.

Variations

Feel free to mix things up:

• Swap out the white fish for salmon or shrimp for a richer or more indulgent flavor.
• Add green olives or preserved lemons for a tangy twist that’s classic in Moroccan cooking.
• Toss in extra vegetables like sliced carrots, potatoes, or zucchini for a heartier meal.
• Use parsley instead of cilantro if that’s your preference or add fresh mint for a refreshing herbal note.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the fish tender and juicy, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the fish can become mushy when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

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This dish pairs beautifully with:

• Fluffy couscous to soak up the flavorful sauce
• Steamed rice for a simple, comforting base
• Crusty bread to mop up every last bit of the garlicky tomato sauce
• Roasted or grilled vegetables for an extra nutritious side

A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette also complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?
It’s generally mild but can be adjusted by adding more cayenne or chili flakes.

Can I use frozen fish?
Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

Do I need a tagine to cook this?
Not at all! A large covered skillet or Dutch oven works just as well.

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully when made a day ahead and reheated gently.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and healthy.

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Garlicky Moroccan Fish is a wonderfully easy yet impressive dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your plate with bold, nourishing flavors. Whether you’re exploring new cuisines or looking for a simple dinner to brighten your week, this recipe will become your go-to. Give it a try tonight—you’ll be hooked!