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Steamed Tilapia Fillet
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Steamed Tilapia Fillet

Oreochromis niloticus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Steamed tilapia fillet is a lean source of protein that is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.

Also known as:
Nile TilapiaAquaculture Tilapia
Scientific NameOreochromis niloticus
Region of OriginNative to Africa, now farmed worldwide.

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories128 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total28.7g
Protein
26g(91%)
Fats
2.7g(9%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B122.4 µg (100%)
Vitamin D2 µg (10%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium38 µg (54%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health.
Low in calories and fat, making it suitable for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain environmental contaminants such as mercury, particularly in larger fish.
!Allergic reactions can occur in individuals sensitive to fish.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed steamed to retain nutrients; can be seasoned with herbs and lemon for added flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose tilapia fillets that are firm, moist, and have a mild scent. Avoid any that appear discolored or have an off smell.

How to Store

Store fresh tilapia in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days. Frozen tilapia can be kept for several months.

Myths vs Realities

MythTilapia is not a healthy fish.
RealityTilapia is a nutritious fish that provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
MythAll tilapia is farmed and unhealthy.
RealityWhile much tilapia is farmed, responsible aquaculture practices can produce healthy fish.
MythTilapia contains high levels of mercury.
RealityTilapia generally has lower mercury levels compared to larger fish species.

Healthy Recipes

Lemon Herb Steamed Tilapia

A light and zesty dish featuring steamed tilapia fillet infused with fresh herbs and lemon, perfect for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1 lemon (sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Place the tilapia fillets in a steamer basket and season with salt and pepper.
  2. 2. Top the fillets with lemon slices and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
  3. 3. Drizzle with olive oil and steam for 10-12 minutes until the fish is cooked through.

Spicy Ginger Soy Tilapia

This recipe combines the warmth of ginger and the umami of soy sauce to create a flavorful steamed tilapia dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 green onion (sliced)
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix soy sauce, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a bowl.
  2. 2. Place tilapia fillets in a steamer and pour the ginger-soy mixture over them.
  3. 3. Steam for 10 minutes and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Mediterranean Steamed Tilapia

A Mediterranean-inspired dish with olives, tomatoes, and capers that adds a burst of flavor to steamed tilapia.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1/4 cup black olives (sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Arrange tilapia fillets in a steamer and top with cherry tomatoes, olives, and capers.
  2. 2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Steam for 12 minutes until the fish is flaky and cooked through.

Coconut Lime Tilapia

This tropical dish features steamed tilapia with a creamy coconut and lime sauce, offering a refreshing taste.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro (chopped)
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Combine coconut milk, lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
  2. 2. Place tilapia fillets in a steamer and pour the coconut mixture over them.
  3. 3. Steam for 10-12 minutes and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Garlic and Spinach Tilapia

A nutritious dish featuring steamed tilapia paired with garlic sautéed spinach, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam tilapia fillets for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Serve the tilapia over the garlic spinach and season with salt and pepper.

Asian Style Steamed Tilapia

A flavorful Asian-inspired recipe with steamed tilapia, soy sauce, and sesame seeds for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon scallions (sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix soy sauce and grated ginger in a bowl.
  2. 2. Place tilapia fillets in a steamer and pour the soy mixture over them.
  3. 3. Steam for 10 minutes and sprinkle with sesame seeds and scallions before serving.

Tilapia with Roasted Vegetables

Steamed tilapia served alongside a medley of colorful roasted vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1 zucchini (sliced)
  • 1 bell pepper (chopped)
  • 1 carrot (sliced)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper; roast for 20 minutes.
  2. 2. Meanwhile, steam tilapia fillets for 10-12 minutes until flaky.
  3. 3. Serve the tilapia alongside the roasted vegetables.

Tilapia Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Healthy steamed tilapia tacos topped with a crunchy cabbage slaw, perfect for a light and fresh meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup cabbage (shredded)
  • 1/2 cup carrots (shredded)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam tilapia fillets for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix shredded cabbage, carrots, and lime juice to make the slaw.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing tilapia in tortillas and topping with cabbage slaw.

Herbed Quinoa and Steamed Tilapia

A nutritious bowl featuring steamed tilapia served over herbed quinoa, making for a complete and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill (chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam tilapia fillets for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
  2. 2. Mix cooked quinoa with olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve the tilapia over the herbed quinoa.

Tilapia with Mango Salsa

A vibrant dish featuring steamed tilapia topped with a refreshing mango salsa, perfect for a summer meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 tilapia fillets
  • 1 ripe mango (diced)
  • 1/2 red onion (diced)
  • 1 jalapeño (finely chopped)
  • Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam tilapia fillets for 10-12 minutes until flaky.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and lime juice to make the salsa.
  3. 3. Serve the tilapia topped with mango salsa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is tilapia a healthy fish to eat?

Yes, tilapia is a healthy fish option, providing high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

How should tilapia be cooked?

Tilapia can be steamed, grilled, baked, or pan-fried, but steaming is recommended to preserve its nutrients.

What are the health benefits of eating tilapia?

Tilapia is low in calories and fat, high in protein, and provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Can tilapia be part of a weight loss diet?

Yes, due to its low calorie and fat content, tilapia can be a great addition to a weight loss diet.

Is tilapia safe for pregnant women?

Yes, tilapia is generally safe for pregnant women, but it should be consumed in moderation due to potential contaminants.

How often can I eat tilapia?

It is recommended to eat tilapia 1-2 times a week as part of a balanced diet.

What is the best way to season tilapia?

Tilapia pairs well with lemon, garlic, herbs, and spices for added flavor.

Is frozen tilapia as nutritious as fresh?

Yes, frozen tilapia retains its nutritional value and can be just as healthy as fresh fish.