If you’re craving a delightful dinner that’s both comforting and easy to whip up, the One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender, flaky white fish and luscious risoni cooked in a creamy, zesty broth all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. With its fresh lemon notes and herbaceous punch, it’s perfect for those nights when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your weeknight lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the simple but essential ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and beautiful color. Each element plays a key role — from the delicate fish fillets to the creamy broth and fresh parsley garnish.
- White fish fillets (4 pieces): Cod, tilapia, or haddock work perfectly for flaky, mild-flavored fish.
- Risoni (1 cup): This tiny, rice-shaped pasta soaks up the broth beautifully and adds a lovely bite.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic for a flavorful base.
- Medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Brings that irresistible aromatic hit enhancing every mouthful.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a warm, earthy herb note that pairs wonderfully with fish.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smoky warmth and a bit of color to the fish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all the flavors.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (2 cups): Forms the flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the risoni and fish.
- Heavy cream or coconut cream (1/2 cup): Creates a velvety texture and luxurious finish.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the dish with bright acidity that cuts through the cream.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Adds an extra layer of fresh citrus aroma.
- Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped): The perfect herbaceous garnish that adds freshness and color.
How to Make One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe
Step 1: Season the Fish
Start by seasoning your fish fillets generously with salt, pepper, and paprika. The paprika not only adds flavor but gives the fish a lovely golden tint when cooked. While the flavors soak in, you can get started on the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook it until soft and translucent — this takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and oregano, cooking just until fragrant (roughly 30 seconds). The aroma at this stage is absolutely irresistible and sets the tone for the whole meal.
Step 3: Cook the Risoni in Broth
Add the risoni directly into the skillet, stirring to coat each tiny pasta piece in the fragrant oil, onions, and garlic. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, letting the risoni cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, until the risoni is al dente and most of the broth has been absorbed.
Step 4: Cook the Fish on Top
Once your risoni is perfectly cooked, create a space in the center of the pan to nestle the fish fillets. Drizzle the remaining olive oil and a generous squeeze of lemon juice over the fish. Cover the pan again and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the fish turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. This one-pan method ensures the fish gently steams in the flavorful cooking liquid alongside the risoni, infusing everything with a unified, delightful taste.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Lemon
Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Add the lemon zest for that burst of fresh citrus flavor that brightens the dish instantly. Taste your creation and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired — personalizing this dish has never been easier.
How to Serve One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and flavor of your One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe, sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top. This adds a lovely pop of green color and a refreshing herbal note that perfectly complements the creamy, citrusy flavors of the dish.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own, but if you want to add something extra, a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables are wonderful companions. The crisp textures and light flavors balance the rich, creamy risoni complimenting your meal without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve the fish and risoni in shallow bowls and garnish with lemon wedges on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice as they like. Drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil over the top before serving adds an elegant touch and enhances the silky texture. You can even scatter toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for some nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind the fish is delicate, so try to consume leftovers sooner rather than later for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
Though this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Transfer cooled portions into a freezer-safe container. When defrosting, do so overnight in the fridge to help retain the texture of both fish and pasta.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce and prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwaving on medium power in short intervals, stirring between, works well. Avoid high heat reheating which can toughen the fish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fish fillets for this One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe?
Yes, frozen fish can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and best texture. Pat dry the fillets to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter or dairy-free option?
Coconut cream is an excellent dairy-free alternative that still delivers richness and creaminess. For a lighter version, you could also use evaporated milk or a plant-based cream.
Is it possible to use a different type of pasta instead of risoni?
While risoni or orzo works best because of its size and shape, you can use small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly since pasta size affects how long it takes to cook.
How can I tell when the fish is perfectly cooked?
The fish is done when it turns opaque and flakes easily when you gently press it with a fork. Cooking time varies depending on thickness, but usually 5 to 7 minutes after placing on the risoni is ideal.
Can I add vegetables to this One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chopped spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas about halfway through cooking the risoni adds color, flavor, and nutrition without complicating the dish.
Final Thoughts
The One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking can result in a dish that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe delivers comforting, fresh flavors with minimal mess. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the delicious blend of creamy risoni with tender fish that your family and friends will love as much as you do.
Print
One Pan Fish and Risoni Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This One Pan Fish & Risoni recipe is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender white fish fillets with creamy, perfectly cooked risoni pasta. Infused with garlic, oregano, paprika, and brightened with lemon zest and juice, this one-pan meal is both comforting and elegant, ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Dish:
- 4 white fish fillets (such as cod, tilapia, or haddock)
- 1 cup risoni (or orzo pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fish: Season the fish fillets with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set them aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Cook the Risoni: In a large, deep skillet or pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onions: Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add Garlic and Oregano: Add the minced garlic and dried oregano, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Risoni: Stir the risoni into the skillet to coat it in the oil, garlic, and onions.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and cook for 10-12 minutes or until risoni is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Place Fish on Risoni: Make space in the center of the pan and place the seasoned fish fillets on top of the risoni, gently pressing them into the mixture.
- Add Oil and Lemon Juice: Drizzle the fish with the remaining olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Cook Fish: Cover the pan and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Finish the Dish: Remove the pan from heat, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and lemon zest.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the flavorful combination of fish and creamy risoni.
Notes
- You can substitute white fish with any flaky white fish available, like haddock or tilapia.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian option: replace fish broth with vegetable broth and omit fish or substitute with grilled vegetables.
- Be sure to stir the risoni occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
- This dish is perfect for an easy weeknight meal, as everything cooks together in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
