Get ready to dive into a world of flavor with these 18 mouthwatering yellowtail recipes! Yellowtail, also known as amberjack or Hawaiian snapper, is a popular seafood choice for its mild taste and firm texture. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing sashimi-style dish or a hearty and flavorful curry, we’ve got you covered.
From classic grilled preparations to innovative sushi rolls and globally-inspired stir-fries, our collection of yellowtail recipes showcases the versatility of this tasty fish. And with options ranging from quick and easy weeknight meals to impressive dinner party fare, there’s something for every taste and skill level.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, highlighting the best ways to prepare yellowtail. From traditional Japanese sashimi to Mexican-inspired tacos and Asian-style stir-fries, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the unique flavors of this beloved fish.
Grilled Yellowtail with Lemon Garlic Butter
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. Fresh yellowtail’s delicate flavor is perfectly complemented by the zing of lemon and richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Place yellowtail fillets on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, spread the lemon garlic butter evenly over each fillet.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Yellowtail Sashimi with Ponzu Sauce
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Japanese cuisine with this refreshing recipe, featuring succulent yellowtail sashimi paired with a tangy ponzu sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail (or similar white fish), sliced into thin pieces
– 1/2 cup ponzu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced daikon radish
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced shiitake mushrooms
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sashimi by placing the yellowtail slices on a chilled plate.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together ponzu sauce and a splash of water to achieve a thin consistency.
3. Arrange the daikon radish and shiitake mushrooms around the sashimi.
4. Drizzle the ponzu sauce over the dish, allowing each piece to absorb the flavors.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced scallions.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a raw fish dish.
Spicy Yellowtail Sushi Rolls
Add a spicy kick to your sushi game with these flavorful rolls featuring yellowtail sashimi and crispy tempura bits.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain)
– 1/4 cup yellowtail sashimi, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (gochujang-based)
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board.
3. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place yellowtail sashimi strips in the middle of the rice.
5. Sprinkle tempura bits and spicy mayo over the fish.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into bite-sized pieces and garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparing ingredients) + rolling time
Yellowtail Ceviche with Mango and Avocado
This vibrant and flavorful ceviche is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of succulent yellowtail, sweet mango, and creamy avocado creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail (or other white fish), cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the yellowtail, mango, and avocado.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture, making sure all the ingredients are coated.
3. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a no-cook ceviche, perfect for warm weather or when you want a quick and easy meal.
Pan-Seared Yellowtail with Herb Crust
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and visually appealing dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, dill, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Season the yellowtail fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Place a fillet on a plate or cutting board and sprinkle half of the herb mixture on top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the herbs and gently press to adhere.
6. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sear the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
8. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellowtail Tacos with Lime Crema
These vibrant tacos are a perfect blend of fresh flavors and textures, featuring pan-seared yellowtail, crispy slaw, and a zesty lime crema. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillet, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Slaw: 1 red cabbage, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey; Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime Crema: 1 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add yellowtail pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove fish from marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled yellowtail, slaw, and Lime Crema (whisk together sour cream, lime juice, and zest).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellowtail Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing recipe combines the flavors of Hawaii with a flavorful sesame dressing, making it perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can enjoy this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail sashimi-grade tuna
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the yellowtail tuna to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
4. Divide cooked rice into bowls and top with marinated tuna.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes marinating time)
Yellowtail Teriyaki with Steamed Rice
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and easy-to-make dish, featuring tender yellowtail fish glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served atop fluffy steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillet
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup steamed white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the yellowtail fillet on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Cook steamed white rice according to package instructions.
7. Serve the glazed yellowtail atop the steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yellowtail Crudo with Chili Oil
This refreshing and flavorful dish combines the delicate taste of yellowtail sashimi-grade tuna with a spicy kick from chili oil. Perfect for warm weather, this crudo is ideal for serving as an appetizer or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound yellowtail sashimi-grade tuna, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chili oil (such as sriracha-infused oil)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, chili oil, and garlic.
2. Arrange the tuna slices on a plate or serving board.
3. Drizzle the oil mixture evenly over the tuna, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Baked Yellowtail with Tomatoes and Olives
A Mediterranean-inspired seafood dish that combines the freshness of yellowtail with the flavors of juicy tomatoes and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the yellowtail fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sliced olives, garlic, and olive oil.
5. Spoon the tomato-olive mixture evenly over each yellowtail fillet.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Yellowtail Carpaccio with Truffle Oil
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this refreshing carpaccio, featuring succulent yellowtail, earthy truffle oil, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz yellowtail sashimi-grade fish
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp truffle oil
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Slice the yellowtail into thin sheets, about 1/16 inch thick.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and truffle oil.
3. Arrange the yellowtail slices on a chilled plate or platter.
4. Drizzle the truffle oil mixture over the fish, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Squeeze a few drops of lemon juice over the carpaccio.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh arugula leaves.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Yellowtail Fish Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this aromatic and creamy Yellowtail Fish Curry, infused with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail fish fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the fish pieces and cook until they turn opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yellowtail en Papillote with Herbs and White Wine
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail with the aromatic flavors of herbs and white wine, all wrapped up in a flavorful papillote package.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 parchment paper sheets, cut into 12×12 inch squares
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season yellowtail fillets with salt, pepper, parsley, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place a fillet in the center of each parchment square.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then add 1-2 tbsp white wine.
5. Fold the parchment paper over the fish to form a tight seal.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Burgers with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this unique combination of flavors and textures. Pan-seared yellowtail fillets are transformed into juicy patties, paired with a zesty wasabi mayo that adds a bold kick.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wasabi mayo ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tsp wasabi paste
+ 1 tbsp soy sauce
+ 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Form yellowtail fillets into patties and coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix wasabi mayo ingredients in a separate bowl.
6. Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings and serve with wasabi mayo.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the freshness of yellowtail sashimi-grade fish with the bold flavors of Asian-inspired stir-frying. The result is a quick, easy, and nutritious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillet, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the yellowtail; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until cooked through.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Soup with Ginger and Lemongrass
This refreshing soup combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail fish with the warmth of ginger and the brightness of lemongrass, making for a perfect wintertime treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fish (or other mild white fish), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups fish broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine ginger, lemongrass, and fish pieces.
2. Pour in fish broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellowtail Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your appetizer game with this Asian-inspired treat, featuring tender yellowtail tempura paired with a bold and spicy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (see below)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and soda water to form the tempura batter.
2. Dip yellowtail pieces into the batter, coating evenly.
3. Fry battered yellowtail in hot oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
4. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Serve with tempura for a flavorful and spicy treat!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including preparation time)
Yellowtail Risotto with Saffron
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail with the rich, creamy texture of saffron-infused risotto. The subtle earthy undertones of the saffron perfectly complement the bright, citrusy notes of the fish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 pound yellowtail fillet, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Add white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
4. Add 1/2 cup water at a time, stirring constantly, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
5. Stir in saffron mixture and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add yellowtail pieces and cook until opaque and flaky.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor and tender texture of yellowtail with these 18 mouth-watering recipes! From classic sashimi and sushi rolls to grilled and pan-seared dishes, there’s something for every seafood lover. Discover new ways to enjoy yellowtail with flavors like lemon garlic butter, mango and avocado, truffle oil, and coconut milk. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a special meal, these recipes will take your taste buds on a culinary adventure!