Cajun Rockfish Recipe

On the top photo, the Rockfish is served with a side dish of quinoa – see how to make quinoa in a rice cooker.

Here’s another picture of Cajun Rockfish recipe – this time it’s served with a side dish of roasted potatoes and onions:

Serving Suggestions

• Pair Cajun Rockfish with a side of fluffy quinoa for a healthy and hearty meal.
• Serve with roasted potatoes and grilled onions for a comforting and filling option.
• Add a fresh kale and quinoa salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the spiciness of the fish.
• Top the fish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dollop of tzatziki sauce for extra flavor.
• For a full Cajun-inspired dinner, pair with dirty rice or collard greens.

Tips for Success

• Choose Fresh Fish: Look for rockfish fillets that are fresh and have a mild, clean scent. Fresh fish ensures the best flavor and texture.
• Dry the Fish: Pat the fillets dry with a paper towel before seasoning. This step helps the spices stick better and prevents steaming while cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the fillets plenty of space in the pan to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Check for Doneness: The fish is ready when it flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make it dry, so keep a close eye during the last few minutes.
• Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning or opt for a homemade mix with less spice.
• Experiment with Oils: While neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work well, you can use olive oil for a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
• Keep it Warm: If making multiple batches, keep cooked fillets warm in a low oven while you finish the rest.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap the Fish: If rockfish isn’t available, substitute with another white fish like tilapia, cod, or halibut. These mild-flavored options work beautifully with Cajun seasoning.
• Mild Seasoning Option: For those sensitive to spice, use a milder seasoning blend or reduce the amount of Cajun spice mix.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the Cajun seasoning to ensure it doesn’t contain hidden gluten.
• Herb-Crusted Alternative: Replace the Cajun spice with a mixture of chopped fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon zest for a fresher, milder flavor.
• Add a Sauce: Elevate the dish by serving with a creamy Cajun remoulade, garlic butter sauce, or a drizzle of spicy aioli.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use the same spice blend on firm tofu or cauliflower steaks for a plant-based version.
• Cooking Method Change: If you prefer baking, place the seasoned fillets on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Let the Cajun Rockfish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled fillets in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the fillets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
• Microwave Option: While not ideal for maintaining texture, you can reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, being careful not to overcook.
• Pro Tip: Add a splash of water or broth to the pan when reheating to prevent the fish from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rockfish, and where can I find it?

Rockfish is a mild, flaky white fish commonly referred to as striped bass in the U.S. You can usually find it in the seafood section of well-stocked grocery stores or fish markets.

Can I use frozen rockfish for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen rockfish fillets. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even flavor and texture.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning varies in heat depending on the brand or recipe. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

What sides go well with Cajun Rockfish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with quinoa, roasted vegetables, dirty rice, or a fresh green salad. The mild fish complements a wide variety of side dishes.

Can I bake the rockfish instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the seasoned fillets on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

What’s the best way to know if the fish is cooked?

The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Overcooking can make it dry, so check frequently toward the end of the cooking time.

How do I make homemade Cajun seasoning?

Combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and salt for a homemade Cajun spice mix. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper.

Is Cajun Rockfish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the Cajun seasoning you use doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I use other oils for cooking?

Yes, oils like olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil can be used. Choose a neutral oil if you don’t want additional flavors to overpower the fish.

How do I keep the fish from sticking to the pan?

Using a good-quality non-stick pan and preheating it with a bit of oil will prevent the fish from sticking. Also, avoid flipping the fillets too early; they’ll naturally release from the pan when ready.

Other Easy Fish Recipes

Cod Fish with Parmesan Crust: A flavorful, golden-baked cod fillet topped with a crisp and cheesy parmesan crust.

Crunchy Baked Breaded Fish – Healthy and No Frying!: A healthier take on breaded fish, baked to perfection for a crunchy texture without the oil.

Quick and Easy White Fish Dinner Recipe: A simple, versatile white fish recipe ready in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Pan-Seared Fish with Egg and Flour Coating: Lightly coated fish fillets, pan-seared for a crispy and golden exterior.

Canned Salmon Patties Recipe: Tasty salmon patties made with canned salmon, ideal for a quick and nutritious meal.

Spicy Cajun Rainbow Trout Fillets: Rainbow trout fillets seasoned with bold Cajun spices and cooked to flaky perfection.

Cajun Seasoned White Fish Fillets Recipe: Tender white fish fillets coated in zesty Cajun seasoning for a spicy, flavorful dish.

To see how I cook other kinds of fish, see my pages on how to cook sole fish, how to cook salmon, how to cook white fish.