Name: Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 3/4 cup olive oil; 2 large red bell peppers, grated; 1 head of garlic, thinly sliced; 1 large bunch of cilantro, finely chopped; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste; 2 pounds white fish (cod, halibut, or sole); Optional: garlicky green beans for serving; 1-2 heads garlic, sliced; Olive oil (about 2 tablespoons); 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed; 1.5 cups water; Sea salt to taste; Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 129 reviews

If you are craving a dish that bursts with bright, savory flavors and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, this Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s a vibrant, heartwarming meal combining flaky white fish with a rich, garlicky sauce made from red peppers, garlic, and fresh cilantro. Paired with optional garlicky rice and green beans, this recipe captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe brings comfort and excitement to your table effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six bowls and a plate arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. On the right side, a white plate holds six light, creamy white fish fillets with a slightly translucent look and smooth texture. Surrounding the plate, from top moving clockwise, there is a small white bowl with brown and red chili flakes, a small wooden bowl filled with thinly sliced pale yellow garlic, a measuring glass jug of yellow cooking oil, a beige bowl filled with finely chopped bright red peppers, a small wooden bowl holding coarse white salt, and another wooden bowl filled with fresh chopped green herbs. The colors stand out clearly against the white marbled texture, showing fresh and simple ingredients. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe lies in its straightforward, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component adds something special—be it color, texture, or depth of flavor—making the dish both simple to assemble and incredibly satisfying.

Olive oil: A generous amount to create a luscious base that infuses the fish and vegetables with richness.
Red peppers: Grated for sweetness and a pop of vibrant color that brightens the plate.
Garlic: Thinly sliced for mellow, aromatic undertones that meld perfectly into the sauce and optional rice.
Cilantro: Fresh and finely chopped to add a burst of herbal freshness and Moroccan authenticity.
Fine sea salt: Essential to balance and elevate all the flavors harmoniously.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat that you can adjust to your liking.
White fish fillets (cod, halibut, or sole): Mild, flaky fish that soaks up the sauce beautifully without overpowering the dish.
Garlicky green beans (optional): A simple, vibrant side that complements and rounds out the meal.
Jasmine rice (optional): Rinsed and cooked with garlic for a fragrant, buttery accompaniment.
Water and unsalted butter (for rice): To perfectly cook and enrich the rice’s texture and flavor.

How to Make Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Start by lining a large pan with olive oil, then add your grated red peppers and thinly sliced garlic. Heat this gently over medium heat, giving time for the garlic to soften and release those irresistible aromas, about 3 to 5 minutes. This base forms the rich, savory heart of your dish, infusing every bite with warmth and sweetness.

Step 2: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in fine sea salt and toss in your finely chopped cilantro. Cover the pan and let this fragrant mixture cook gently for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial—it allows the flavors to marry and deepen, creating a sauce that perfectly complements the delicate fish.

Step 3: Cook the Fish

Arrange your white fish fillets spaced out gently in the pan. Spoon the pepper and garlic mixture over the top so every piece is lovingly coated. Cover the pan again and cook for 10 more minutes until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This is when the dish truly comes alive with Moroccan-inspired brightness. If you like a little heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes to taste for that extra zing.

Step 4: Make the Optional Garlicky Rice

In a separate medium pot, sauté a generous amount of sliced garlic in olive oil until golden and fragrant. Add in the rinsed jasmine rice, water, and a pinch of sea salt. Bring this to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover for 12 minutes. When done, stir in some unsalted butter, let the rice sit briefly, and then fluff it up with a fork. This fragrant rice is the perfect mate to your simple Moroccan white fish, soaking up the delicious sauce beautifully.

How to Serve Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe

A white bowl holds a bed of fluffy white rice as the bottom layer. On top of the rice, two fish fillets covered in chunky red sauce with bits of white almonds and green herbs form the middle layer. On the side of the fish, bright green sautéed green beans with browned slices of garlic add texture and color as the third layer. A gold fork rests inside the bowl on the right side, partly touching the green beans. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with additional white bowls and small wooden dishes around it, showing more rice and spices. A striped white and gray cloth is placed on the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your plate further, a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro adds color and herbal freshness right before serving. A wedge of lemon can also brighten the dish with a gentle squeeze, balancing the rich flavors with a hint of citrus. These little touches bring the dish to life and create a visually appealing experience.

Side Dishes

Serve the fish alongside optional garlicky green beans for a fresh, crisp contrast that complements the softness of the white fish. The garlicky jasmine rice absorbs the juices perfectly, making every forkful a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. You could also add a simple salad with crunchy vegetables dressed in a light vinaigrette for balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, plate the fish over a bed of the garlicky rice, then drizzle some of the flavorful pepper and garlic sauce on top. Use colorful plates to make the vibrant reds and greens pop visually. Garnish with whole cilantro sprigs and a few red pepper flakes for a restaurant-worthy presentation that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the fish and sauce separately from the rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the best texture and flavor for up to 2 days. Keeping components apart prevents the fish from becoming too soft and the rice from drying out.

Freezing

While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked fish and sauce wrapped tightly in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. However, the texture of the fish may be slightly affected upon thawing, so fresh preparation is recommended whenever possible.

Reheating

For reheating, gently warm the fish and sauce on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying it out. Reheat the rice separately, ideally covered with a damp paper towel in the microwave to keep it moist and fluffy. Taking it slow preserves the delicate flavors and texture you fell in love with initially.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish besides cod or halibut?

Absolutely! Sole or other mild white fish work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure the fillets are firm enough to hold together during cooking without falling apart.

Is it necessary to grate the red peppers?

Grating the red peppers helps release their sweetness and ensures they blend smoothly into the sauce. You could also finely chop them if grating is inconvenient, but grated peppers create a better texture.

What if I don’t like cilantro?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, fresh parsley makes a great substitute. It adds a slightly different but still fresh and bright flavor that works well with Moroccan spices.

Can I make the garlicky rice without garlic?

Yes, if garlic isn’t your preference, cooking jasmine rice simply with olive oil and a pinch of salt is a fine alternative. However, garlic infuses a distinct savory depth that pairs perfectly with the fish.

How spicy is the dish with red pepper flakes?

The optional red pepper flakes add a mild to medium heat depending on how much you use. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. The base recipe without flakes is flavorful but gentle on the palate.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making a recipe that feels both exotic and completely approachable, and this Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe delivers just that. It’s a flavorful journey that takes minimal effort but rewards you with bright, comforting Moroccan-inspired vibes. Whether for a cozy dinner or to impress loved ones, give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite go-to meals!

Simple Moroccan White Fish Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need