Coconut Lime Fish with Rice Recipe
Introduction
Coconut Lime Fish with Rice is a bright and creamy dish that combines tender white fish with a zesty coconut-lime sauce. This simple yet flavorful meal comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend feast.

Ingredients
- 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the rice by combining jasmine rice and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
- Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fish fillets and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily.
- Step 4: Pour the coconut-lime sauce over the cooked fish in the skillet. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Step 5: Fluff the rice with a fork and divide it onto plates. Top each serving with the coconut lime fish and sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the fish in some of the coconut-lime sauce for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Swap jasmine rice for brown rice or quinoa for a heartier grain option.
- Add sliced chili or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover fish and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or coconut milk to keep the fish moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish for this recipe?
Yes, any firm white fish like cod, haddock, or snapper works well. Just make sure the fillets are of similar thickness for even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. The fish and rice reheat nicely, making this an easy and delicious option for meal prepping lunches or dinners.
PrintCoconut Lime Fish with Rice Recipe
A vibrant and creamy Coconut Lime Fish served with fluffy jasmine rice, featuring tender white fish fillets cooked in a zesty coconut-lime sauce with garlic and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. This dish offers a delicious balance of tropical flavors and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
Fish and Sauce
- 4 white fish fillets (such as tilapia or cod)
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Rice
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the rice simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and keep covered until ready to serve.
- Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together coconut milk, freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later use.
- Cook the Fish: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the fish fillets in the skillet. Cook each fillet for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden and cooked halfway through, then flip and cook the other side for an additional 4-5 minutes until the fish is fully cooked, flaky, and opaque throughout.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared coconut-lime sauce over the cooked fish in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and allow the fish and sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce slightly thicken.
- Serve: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and divide it onto serving plates. Spoon the coconut lime fish and the sauce over the rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges on the side for an added burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best vibrant flavor.
- If tilapia or cod are not available, other mild white fish like haddock or sole can be used.
- To reduce cooking time, use a rice cooker if available.
- Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding fish to prevent it from sticking.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the freshness of the sauce.
Keywords: coconut lime fish, coconut fish recipe, fish with coconut milk, lime fish, coconut milk sauce, jasmine rice, easy fish dinner

