When it comes to seafood, few types are as versatile and delicious as yellowtail. With its mild flavor and firm texture, this fish is perfect for a wide range of dishes, from sashimi and ceviche to tacos and burgers. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering yellowtail recipes to inspire your next meal. From classic preparations like grilled and pan-seared options, to creative twists like teriyaki and poke bowls, there’s something for everyone in this collection of seafood lover-approved recipes.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of yellowtail cuisine, exploring everything from appetizers and snacks to main courses and desserts. Whether you’re a fan of spicy and savory flavors or light and citrusy ones, we’ve got you covered with our expertly curated selection of yellowtail recipes.
Grilled Yellowtail with Lemon Garlic Butter
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilled fish with this simple and elegant recipe. The combination of lemon, garlic, and parsley creates a bright and refreshing taste experience that pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of yellowtail.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
3. Season yellowtail fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill yellowtail for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the lemon-garlic butter mixture evenly onto the fish.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Yellowtail Sashimi with Ponzu Sauce
This recipe combines the freshness of yellowtail sashimi with the tangy sweetness of ponzu sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for sushi enthusiasts or those looking to elevate their culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillet
– 1/2 cup ponzu sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish for garnish (optional)
Ponzu Sauce Recipe:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Slice the yellowtail fillet into thin pieces, about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Place the sashimi on a chilled plate or platter.
3. Drizzle ponzu sauce over the sashimi, allowing it to pool slightly around each piece.
4. Garnish with lime wedges, sesame seeds, and thinly sliced daikon radish (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a raw fish dish.
Pan-Seared Yellowtail with Mango Salsa
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Pacific with this refreshing recipe that pairs succulent yellowtail with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. This dish is perfect for a light and flavorful dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the yellowtail fillets with salt and pepper. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan and sear the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl.
4. Serve the pan-seared yellowtail with the mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Ceviche with Avocado
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful Yellowtail Ceviche, paired with creamy avocado. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail snapper fillets, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yellowtail pieces, red onion slices, and lime juice.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in diced avocado and chopped cilantro.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Yellowtail Tacos with Cilantro Lime Slaw
This vibrant recipe combines the freshness of yellowtail with the brightness of cilantro and lime, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade yellowtail, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cilantro lime slaw (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, queso fresco
Cilantro Lime Slaw:
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fry tortillas in hot oil for 30 seconds on each side, or until crispy.
2. In a separate pan, cook yellowtail pieces over medium heat until cooked through.
3. Assemble tacos by placing yellowtail onto fried tortillas, topping with cilantro lime slaw and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yellowtail Teriyaki with Steamed Rice
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple recipe, featuring tender yellowtail fillets glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce, served atop fluffy steamed rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket with 2 cups of water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Brush both sides of yellowtail fillets with vegetable oil; season with salt.
4. Place yellowtail in the steamer basket; steam for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve each fillet with a spoonful of teriyaki glaze spooned over the top, accompanied by a scoop of steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Yellowtail Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
This vibrant poke bowl combines the freshness of yellowtail sashimi, the nuttiness of sesame seeds, and the creaminess of a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail sashimi-grade fish (such as yellowtail or amberjack), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
2. Cut the yellowtail into small pieces and place in a separate bowl.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Add the yellowtail to the bowl and pour the sesame dressing over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Baked Yellowtail with Herbs and White Wine
This recipe showcases the delicate flavor of yellowtail (also known as amberjack or Hawaiian snapper) when paired with a flavorful white wine sauce and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and elegant dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. Drizzle olive oil over the fish, then sprinkle with garlic, thyme, and parsley.
5. Pour white wine over the fish, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and serve immediately, garnished with lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Crudo with Chili Oil and Microgreens
Experience the freshness of this California-inspired dish, featuring tender yellowtail sashimi, spicy chili oil, and peppery microgreens.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail sushi-grade fish, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup chili oil (see note)
– 1/2 cup mixed microgreens (such as pea shoots, purslane, and sunflower greens)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the yellowtail slices on a chilled plate or platter.
2. Drizzle the chili oil over the fish in a zig-zag pattern.
3. Sprinkle the microgreens over the top of the fish.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: None, as this dish is served raw.
Note: For the chili oil, combine 1/2 cup neutral-tasting oil (such as grapeseed or canola) with 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce and 1-2 cloves minced garlic. Stir well to combine. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Yellowtail Carpaccio with Truffle Oil
This refreshing appetizer is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the delicate taste of yellowtail fish. Thinly sliced and served with truffle oil, this dish is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade yellowtail fillet
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Slice the yellowtail fillet into thin pieces, about 1/8 inch thick.
2. Place the fish slices on a chilled plate or platter.
3. Drizzle the truffle oil over the fish in a zigzag pattern.
4. Sprinkle the red onion and lime juice evenly over the top of the fish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None – this dish is served raw.
Yellowtail Fish Curry with Coconut Milk
This vibrant and flavorful curry showcases the delicate taste of yellowtail fish, perfectly balanced by the richness of coconut milk and a blend of aromatic spices. A simple yet satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail fish fillets (or substitute with other white fish), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the mixture is lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add fish pieces, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yellowtail Sushi Rolls with Spicy Mayo
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this simple recipe that combines the freshness of yellowtail sashimi with the spiciness of homemade mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound yellowtail sashimi, sliced into thin pieces
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Spicy Mayo (see below for recipe)
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the yellowtail sashimi into thin pieces and set aside.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a few pieces of yellowtail sashimi in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with Spicy Mayo.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 0 minutes (since it’s a no-cook recipe!)
– Total time: 15 minutes
Yellowtail en Papillote with Vegetables
This recipe combines the delicate flavor of yellowtail with a variety of colorful vegetables, all wrapped up in a flavorful papillote. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pieces of parchment paper (large enough to wrap around the fillets)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, and garlic.
3. Place a yellowtail fillet in the center of each piece of parchment paper.
4. Divide the vegetable mixture evenly among the four fillets.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Fold the parchment paper over the fish and vegetables to form a seal.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This recipe combines the sweetness of corn and the smokiness of bacon with the delicate flavor of yellowtail, creating a hearty and comforting chowder perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of fish stock or water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the yellowtail pieces, corn kernels, heavy cream, fish stock or water, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yellowtail Kebabs with Chimichurri Sauce
Savor the flavors of Argentina with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for kebabs
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar.
3. Thread yellowtail pieces onto wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the kebabs with the chimichurri sauce, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Yellowtail Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this crispy Yellowtail Tempura recipe, served with a tangy and sweet dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillets (or substitute with tilapia or cod)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup rice vinegar
+ 1 tablespoon honey
+ 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Cut the yellowtail fillets into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
3. Pour in soda water and mix until smooth batter forms.
4. Dip each yellowtail piece into the batter, coating evenly.
5. Fry battered fish in hot oil (350°F) for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. For dipping sauce, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger in a bowl. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your crispy Yellowtail Tempura with tangy Dipping Sauce!
Yellowtail Burgers with Wasabi Aioli
Elevate your burger game with this unique recipe that combines the freshness of yellowtail with the pungency of wasabi. This flavor combination is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yellowtail fillets, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
– Wasabi Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together yellowtail, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, pickles (if using), and Wasabi Aioli.
Wasabi Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (grilling) + 5 minutes (assembling)
Yellowtail Stir-Fry with Bok Choy
Experience the harmonious balance of Asian flavors with this simple and quick recipe, featuring tender yellowtail, crisp bok choy, and a hint of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb yellowtail fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups bok choy, cleaned and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add yellowtail pieces and cook until opaque and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bok choy, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Yellowtail Nicoise Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flaky flavors of yellowtail with the classic elements of a Niçoise, adding a pop of color and excitement to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade yellowtail, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup cooked and chilled green beans
– 1/4 cup halved cherry tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine yellowtail, green beans, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep), 0 minutes (cook)
Yellowtail Gravlax with Dill and Mustard Sauce
Transform your dining experience with this refreshing and flavorful take on traditional gravlax, featuring yellowtail fillets marinated in a zesty mixture of dill, mustard, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 yellowtail fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1 tsp black peppercorns
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your refrigerator to its lowest temperature setting.
2. In a small bowl, mix together salt, brown sugar, vinegar, and water until dissolved.
3. Place the yellowtail fillets in a shallow dish, skin side down (if they have skin). Pour the marinade over the fish, making sure each piece is fully coated.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 24 hours or up to 48 hours.
5. Just before serving, mix together chopped dill, whole-grain mustard, and black peppercorns in a small bowl.
6. Slice the gravlax into thin strips and serve with the dill-mustard sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 24-48 hours (marinating time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavor of yellowtail! In this article, we’re sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this seafood gem. From sushi rolls and sashimi to tacos and burgers, our recipes offer something for every taste bud. Try your hand at Grilled Yellowtail with Lemon Garlic Butter, Pan-Seared Yellowtail with Mango Salsa, or Yellowtail Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a delicious way to enjoy yellowtail in this collection of flavorful and easy-to-make recipes.