Recipes

28 Whole Fish Recipes that Will Hook You From the First Bite!

28 Best Whole Fish Recipes

Are you ready to dive into the world of whole fish recipes? Whether you're a seafood lover or looking to add more variety to your meals, whole fish dishes are a must-try! From crispy skin to tender flesh, cooking a whole fish brings out its natural flavors and creates a stunning presentation.

In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best whole fish recipes that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds wanting more!

1. Baked Whole Fish

Baked Whole Fish

Baked Whole Fish is a simple and flavorful recipe that is perfect for those who want to try cooking a whole fish. The fish is stuffed with a compound garlic butter, fresh herbs, and lemon slices, then baked in the oven.

The result is a delicious and moist fish with a burst of flavors. Serve it with a caper, olive, and dried tomato salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.

2. Indian Baked Whole Fish

Indian Baked Whole Fish

The Indian Baked Whole Fish recipe is a flavorful and masalafied version of a whole fish dish. The fish is marinated with turmeric and lemon juice, then baked with a delicious masala made from onions, tomatoes, spices, and herbs.

The masala penetrates deep into the fish, resulting in a mouthwatering and tasty dish. It is a must-try recipe for fish lovers who enjoy Indian flavors and spices.

3. Whole Roasted Fish

Whole Roasted Fish

The Whole Roasted Fish recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to cook a whole fish. Seasoned with fish seasoning and stuffed with lemon, garlic, and thyme, the fish is then roasted in a hot oven until it is beautifully cooked with a crispy skin.

This recipe offers flexibility to adapt the flavors to suit personal preferences, making it a versatile option for any seafood lover. Serve it with pickled red onions, chimichurri, and your choice of sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.

4. Whole Baked Sea Bass

Whole Baked Sea Bass

Whole Baked Sea Bass is a simple and flavorful recipe that features marinated sea bass cooked in the oven. The fish is seasoned with lemon, tomato, garlic, herbs, and spices, resulting in a moist and succulent dish.

It is a healthy option, rich in Omega 3, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. The recipe is easy to make and the bones and head of the fish add extra flavor. Overall, Whole Baked Sea Bass is a delicious and foolproof way to enjoy a whole fish.

5. Whole Fish

Whole Fish

Whole Fish is a fantastic recipe for those looking to conquer their culinary bucket-list item of cooking and eating a whole fish. This recipe simplifies the process by roasting the fish in the oven, resulting in incredibly flavorful and perfectly cooked fish.

The author recommends choosing a white-fleshed fish like mahi mahi, sea bass, branzino, or red snapper and provides tips on selecting a fresh fish. The recipe also suggests asking the fishmonger to scale, gut, and rinse the fish, making it even easier for beginners. Overall, Whole Fish is a foolproof and delicious way to enjoy a whole fish at home.

6. Whole Catfish Baked in Foil

Whole Catfish Baked In Foil

Whole Catfish Baked in Foil is a delicious and easy recipe that results in tender, flaky fish with a rich lemony flavor. The preparation is minimal, and the marinade adds a tasty touch.

This recipe is also keto-friendly, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Overall, Whole Catfish Baked in Foil is a quick and flavorful way to enjoy whole catfish in the oven.

7. BBQ Tandoori Fish

Bbq Tandoori Fish

The BBQ Tandoori Fish recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your BBQ game with a splash of Indian exoticism. It uses a whole trout marinated in Indian spices and cooked Tandoori style over hot coals.

The recipe suggests using trout, but it can be adapted to other fish like sea bass or pike perch. The marinade allows the fish's flavor to shine through, and it can be served with simple sides like kachumber salad or raita. Overall, this recipe brings a touch of the exotic to your summer BBQ.

8. Thai Style Deep Fried Whole Fish

Thai Style Deep Fried Whole Fish

Thai Style Deep Fried Whole Fish is a fragrant and delicious dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. The fish is deep fried until golden brown and crispy, and then topped with a flavorful sauce made with garlic, ginger, chilli, soy sauce, fish sauce, palm sugar syrup, and rice vinegar.

The dish is garnished with coriander and bean sprouts, adding freshness and texture. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

9. Grilled Whole Red Snapper

Grilled Whole Red Snapper

Grilled Whole Red Snapper is a flavorful and easy-to-make whole fish recipe that can be prepared in the oven. The combination of herbs, garlic, and lemon juice adds a delicious taste to the fish.

With a marinade that enhances the flavors, this recipe is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner. Whether you're a fish lover or not, this Grilled Whole Red Snapper is sure to impress.

10. Air Fryer Whole Fish

Air Fryer Whole Fish

The Air Fryer Whole Fish recipe offers a simple and convenient way to cook a whole fish using an air fryer. The recipe includes instructions on how to prepare the fish, season it, and cook it in the air fryer.

It also provides variations for different types of whole fish. Overall, this recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy whole fish meal without the hassle of traditional cooking methods.

11. Baked Rainbow Trout

Baked Rainbow Trout

Baked Rainbow Trout is a flavorful and healthy whole fish recipe that is perfect for quick and easy weeknight dinners or a satisfying lunch. The fish is infused with fresh lemon, herbs, and garlic, and cooked in a foil pouch to keep it moist and flavorful.

It's a simple yet impressive dish that showcases the delicate flavors of the rainbow trout. Whether you have access to fresh rainbow trout or any other type of fish, this recipe is a winner.

12. Oven Baked Sea Bass

Oven Baked Sea Bass

The Oven Baked Sea Bass recipe is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious whole fish dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe delivers a flavorful and moist sea bass.

The tips provided in the post ensure that the fish is not overcooked, resulting in a dry texture. The recipe can also be adapted for grilling in the summer. Overall, this Oven Baked Sea Bass recipe is a great option for seafood lovers looking for a hassle-free and tasty meal.

13. Crispy Whole Fried Fish

Crispy Whole Fried Fish

The Crispy Whole Fried Fish recipe is a delightful way to enjoy fish with its crispy exterior and moist, tender flesh. Served with a tangy onion-based sauce, this dish is a true treat. The recipe calls for small/medium fish, seasoned with salt and chili powder, and fried until golden brown.

The accompanying sauce is made by sautéing onions, ginger, and garlic, then adding soy sauce, tamarind paste, sugar, and lemon juice. This recipe is versatile and can be made with different types of fish.

14. Oven Roasted Mackerel with Cilantro and Garlic

Oven Roasted Mackerel With Cilantro And Garlic

The Oven Roasted Mackerel with Cilantro and Garlic is a simple and delicious whole fish recipe. The mackerel is marinated in a blend of fresh cilantro, garlic, coriander powder, and lemon juice, giving it a flavorful and aromatic taste.

The fish is then roasted in the oven until cooked through, resulting in a moist and tender texture. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking for an easy and satisfying dinner option.

15. Thai-Style Steamed Whole Fish

Thai-Style Steamed Whole Fish

Thai-Style Steamed Whole Fish is a delicious and easy recipe that showcases the flavors of Thai cuisine. The whole fish is steamed and then dressed in a sweet, tangy, savory, and spicy dressing, resulting in a refreshing and flavorful dish.

The recipe uses easily accessible ingredients that can be found at most grocery stores. If you're a fan of whole fish dishes, this Thai-style recipe is definitely worth trying.

16. Caribbean Stewed Fish

Caribbean Stewed Fish

Caribbean Stewed Fish is a flavorful and satisfying dish that will delight seafood lovers. The whole fish is marinated, baked, and then cooked down in a rich creole sauce, resulting in a delicious and aromatic meal.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing option, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean.

17. Lemon Soy Roasted Branzino

Lemon Soy Roasted Branzino

The Lemon Soy Roasted Branzino is a delicious twist on a classic whole fish dish. The branzino is seasoned with a flavorful mixture of melted butter, soy sauce, lemon juice, and parsley, then roasted to perfection.

The result is a crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a special dinner at home.

18. Grilled Whole Fish

Grilled Whole Fish

Grilled Whole Fish is a flavorful and versatile dish that offers a smoky flavor, crispy skin, and moist, tender fish. The recipe allows for customization with various herbs and spices, such as lemon wedges, garlic, scallions, and more.

It can be cooked directly on the grill or wrapped in foil, depending on your preference. Grilling over coals adds a charcoal-infused flavor. The dish is best served fresh off the grill and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Overall, Grilled Whole Fish is a delicious and easy-to-make recipe for fish lovers.

19. Baked Pompano

Baked Pompano

Baked Pompano is a delicious and moist whole fish recipe stuffed with onions and sweet peppers. It can be baked covered with tinfoil for extra moisture or uncovered for a drier texture.

The fish remains moist even when baked uncovered. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, rice, and vegetables for a complete meal. The fish can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

20. Chinese Steamed Fish

Chinese Steamed Fish

Chinese Steamed Fish is a traditional and authentic dish that showcases the delicate flavors of the fish. The recipe calls for a fresh fish, preferably 500g to 700g in size, which is steamed with scallions, ginger, and seasoned soy sauce.

The result is a dish with a super umami flavor and juicy, tender meat. The cooking process is quick, taking only 5-7 minutes for sea fish and 7-10 minutes for fresh water fish. This recipe is a great way to highlight the natural flavors of the fish while removing any unwanted fishy smell.

21. Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod

Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod

Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod is an incredibly easy and delicious recipe that will impress your family for dinner. Made with just 5 ingredients, including cod loin fillets, butter, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

The cod poaches in a lemony garlic butter sauce, resulting in a succulent and flavorful fish. The recipe is baked in the oven, reducing fish smells in the house. The dish can be served with bread, rice, or potatoes to mop up the delicious sauce. Overall, Garlic Butter Lemon Baked Cod is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy whole fish.

22. Whole Oven Baked Trout in Foil

Whole Oven Baked Trout In Foil

Whole Oven Baked Trout in Foil is a simple and delicious recipe that guarantees moist and flavorful fish in just 12 minutes. The trout is seasoned with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs, then wrapped in foil to seal in the moisture and steam the fish.

The addition of lemon slices adds a refreshing citrus flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy tender, flaky fish with minimal effort and easy clean-up.

23. Steamed Fish

Steamed Fish

Steamed Fish is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the freshness of the fish. The recipe calls for a whole fish, preferably fresh, and is steamed to perfection. The fish is dressed with scallions, ginger, and a spicy oil, adding a subtle aroma and a hint of spiciness.

The star seasoning is soy sauce, along with Shaoxing rice wine, sugar, and white pepper. This Chinese-style dish requires little cooking skill but delivers incredible taste. Serve it with plain rice for a satisfying meal.

24. Chinese Steamed Whole Fish

Chinese Steamed Whole Fish

Chinese Steamed Whole Fish is a classic and beloved dish in Chinese cuisine. It is often served at special occasions and family gatherings. The recipe involves steaming a whole fish with ginger, scallion, soy, and cilantro, resulting in a flavorful and delicate dish.

The tutorial on how to serve the fish at the table adds an impressive touch. This recipe is a must-try for those looking to explore authentic Chinese flavors.

25. Baked Whole Striped Bass in Foil

Baked Whole Striped Bass In Foil

Baked Whole Striped Bass in Foil is a quick and easy recipe that delivers tender and flavorful fish. The fish is wrapped tightly in foil, ensuring moist and perfectly cooked fillets. The addition of lemon and garlic enhances the taste, while the option to add scallions and more garlic intensifies the aroma.

This mess-free recipe allows for easy cleanup, as the fish can be eaten directly from the foil. Pair it with white rice, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad for a satisfying meal.

26. Thai Grilled Whole Red Snapper

Thai Grilled Whole Red Snapper

The Thai Grilled Whole Red Snapper is a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe. The fish is perfectly cooked on the grill and served with a tangy, spicy herb sauce. It's a light and refreshing dish that showcases the balance of sweet and salty flavors in Thai cuisine.

The combination of fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and chili paste adds depth and complexity to the dish. The snapper is garnished with fresh mint, cilantro, and scallions, enhancing the overall taste. This recipe is a great choice for seafood lovers looking for a delicious and healthy meal.

27. Grilled Branzino

Grilled Branzino

Grilled Branzino is a simple and delicious whole fish recipe. The branzino, also known as sea bass, is stuffed with lemon slices and fresh herbs, then grilled to perfection. Served with a bright and lemony citrus oil, this dish is a delightful combination of flavors.

The recipe requires little prep and is perfect for summer grilling. The fish is tender and flavorful, making it a standout dish. Overall, Grilled Branzino is a must-try for seafood lovers.

28. Whole Black Sea Bass

Whole Black Sea Bass

The Whole Black Sea Bass recipe is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for both special occasions and casual meals. The black sea bass is marinated in a flavorful combination of soy sauce, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, fish sauce, ginger, and garlic, and then grilled until flaky and tender.

The fish has a mild, clean, and slightly sweet taste with a delicate texture. It can be purchased as filets or as a whole fish, making it versatile and budget-friendly. Cooking a whole fish may seem intimidating, but this recipe proves that it is actually quite simple. Serve the grilled sea bass with scallions, black sesame seeds, and lime wedges for a stunning presentation.