Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce

Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce Recipe from Mexico

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the freshness of cilantro. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a light and healthy dinner option.

History

This recipe is inspired by the tropical flavors of the Caribbean, where grilled fish with fruit-based sauces is a popular dish. The combination of pineapple and cilantro creates a unique and refreshing sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled fish.

Ingredients

1 medium pineapple (about 2 lb or 907 g), peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch chunks
0.75 cup unsweetened pineapple juice
2 tbsp lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 to 1 tsp jalapeño pepper
2 tbsp minced cilantro
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water
2 to 3 tbsp Nutrasweet® Spoonful™
salt
pepper
6 oz (170 g) halibut, haddock, or salmon steaks or fillets, grilled

How to prepare

In a medium saucepan, heat the pineapple, juices, garlic, and jalapeño pepper until it reaches boiling point.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cilantro and heat the mixture until it boils again.
In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and cold water, then stir it into the boiling mixture.
Boil the mixture while stirring constantly until it thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in Nutrasweet® Spoonful™ and season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve the sauce warm over fish or pork.

Variations

Substitute the fish with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
Add diced bell peppers or red onion to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to grill the fish over medium-high heat to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flaky.

- Marinate the fish in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, and jalapeño pepper before grilling to infuse it with flavor.

- Use fresh pineapple for the sauce for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce with a side of rice or quinoa and a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the fish over direct heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned pineapple chunks in juice if fresh pineapple is not available.

- Substitute honey or agave nectar for Nutrasweet® Spoonful™.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the tropical flavors of the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 2g per serving

Saturated Fat: 0g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 80% of daily value per serving

Vitamin A: 10% of daily value per serving

Iron: 6% of daily value per serving

Alergens

This recipe contains fish.

Summary

Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is rich in Vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

Summary

Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a summer meal. The combination of sweet pineapple and fresh cilantro creates a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled fish. Enjoy this dish with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Grilled Fish with Pineapple-Cilantro Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to visit a local farmer's market in search of fresh ingredients for dinner. As I wandered through the bustling stalls filled with vibrant fruits and vegetables, my eyes landed on a display of ripe pineapples. The sweet scent of the tropical fruit filled the air, and I knew I had to take some home with me.

I had always been a fan of combining sweet and savory flavors in my cooking, so the idea of pairing pineapple with fish sounded intriguing to me. I approached the vendor and purchased a few of the golden fruits, along with a fillet of fresh mahi-mahi. As I made my way back home, my mind raced with ideas on how to incorporate these ingredients into a delicious meal.

When I arrived at my kitchen, I set to work preparing the fish. I marinated it in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and a splash of lime juice to infuse it with flavor. While the fish soaked up the marinade, I turned my attention to the pineapple-cilantro sauce. I diced up the ripe fruit and chopped a handful of fragrant cilantro leaves, then combined them in a blender along with some jalapeno for a bit of heat.

As I blended the ingredients together, the vibrant green of the cilantro mixed with the bright yellow of the pineapple to create a beautiful, aromatic sauce. The sweetness of the fruit was balanced perfectly by the herbaceous cilantro and the spicy kick of the jalapeno. I tasted a spoonful of the sauce and was instantly transported to a tropical paradise.

Once the sauce was ready, I fired up the grill and cooked the marinated fish until it was perfectly charred and flaky. As I plated the grilled mahi-mahi, I drizzled a generous spoonful of the pineapple-cilantro sauce over the top, letting it cascade down the sides in a tantalizing swirl of colors and flavors.

The first bite of the dish was a revelation. The smoky, charred flavor of the fish paired beautifully with the bright, fresh taste of the pineapple-cilantro sauce. The sweetness of the pineapple complemented the savory fish, while the cilantro added a burst of freshness that lingered on my taste buds.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think back to the moment I had stumbled upon this recipe. It was as if fate had led me to that farmer's market, guiding me towards this perfect combination of flavors and textures. I knew that this dish would become a staple in my repertoire, a go-to recipe for special occasions and lazy weeknight dinners alike.

And so, with a full belly and a happy heart, I made a mental note to always be open to new culinary adventures. You never know where you might find your next favorite recipe, or what delicious surprises await you just around the corner.