One Pan Fish & Risoni Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with One Pan Fish & Risoni! This dish is everything I crave on a weeknight: juicy white fish gently poached in a nest of savory, tomato-bathed risoni (orzo), with tender vegetables and a medley of Mediterranean flavors. It’s all made in a single pan—minimal fuss, maximum satisfaction, and a vibrant mix of colors and textures that always manages to wow at the table. Whether you’re after a wholesome family dinner or an impressive-yet-easy meal for friends, One Pan Fish & Risoni is your sure-fire ticket to comfort and flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of One Pan Fish & Risoni comes from everyday staples, combining effortlessly to create a symphony of taste and color. Each ingredient brings an essential element, whether it’s body, aroma, or a pop of freshness—so grab these items and get ready for a truly memorable meal!
- Risoni (Orzo pasta) – The tiny, rice-shaped pasta soaks up all the flavors and gives the dish its hearty, cozy base.
- Olive oil – For those rich, fruity notes and a silky mouthfeel that ties everything together.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan, forming the flavor foundation.
- Garlic – Bring a punchy fragrance that defines Mediterranean comfort food.
- Red bell pepper – Brings vibrancy and gentle sweetness, plus a dash of color.
- Zucchini – Adds moisture and a subtle, earthy freshness.
- Diced tomatoes (canned) – Lend a tangy base and meld the pasta and fish with a juicy tomato hug.
- Chicken or vegetable broth – Bathes the pasta in deep savoriness; use veggie broth for a pescatarian version.
- Paprika – A touch of smoky, warm flavor that perks up every bite.
- Dried oregano – Just half a teaspoon works magic, giving the dish fragrant Mediterranean notes.
- Salt – Essential for drawing out the flavors of each ingredient.
- Black pepper – For a gentle bit of heat and complexity.
- White fish fillets (cod, snapper, or barramundi) – The star of the show! Use your favorite flaky, mild fish for melt-in-your-mouth results.
- Lemon juice – A finishing squeeze to brighten everything up and cut through the richness.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped and sprinkled on top for an irresistible whiff of freshness and a hint of green.
How to Make One Pan Fish & Risoni
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and the kitchen smells amazing—just 2 to 3 minutes. This little step is the secret to awakening all those naturally sweet flavors that set the foundation for One Pan Fish & Risoni.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the red bell pepper and zucchini. Let them cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The veggies will begin to soften, turning silky but still holding onto some gentle bite—making sure every forkful has a rainbow of color and taste.
Step 3: Stir in the Risoni and Tomatoes
Pour in the risoni, canned diced tomatoes (with all their juices!), and give it all a good stir. This is also the point to add the chicken or vegetable broth, along with the paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well so that the risoni is evenly dispersed and every grain gets a kiss of those lovely spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Pasta
Bring everything to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover your skillet, and let it bubble away for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir once or twice to make sure nothing sticks, and keep an eye on the risoni—you’re aiming for almost tender, not completely cooked, since it will finish cooking with the fish.
Step 5: Nestle in the Fish
Gently nestle the chunky pieces of white fish into the simmering risoni, spooning a touch of the lovely liquid over them to keep them moist. Cover the pan again and let everything cook together for 6 to 8 minutes more. The One Pan Fish & Risoni is done when the fish flakes easily with a fork and the pasta is perfectly al dente.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the cooking is complete, give the whole dish a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness. Scatter the chopped parsley over the top for that beautiful final flourish. All that’s left is to serve up your One Pan Fish & Risoni straight from the skillet, family style!
How to Serve One Pan Fish & Risoni
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is a classic, but if you want to level it up, add a grating of lemon zest or some extra-cracked black pepper. A few cherry tomatoes halved, or even some sliced green olives can bring a little more color and personality to the plate.
Side Dishes
Honestly, One Pan Fish & Risoni is a star all on its own, but it plays well with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemony vinaigrette or a side of warm crusty bread to mop up the saucy risoni. If you’re going all out, a batch of roasted asparagus or steamed green beans will make your table look like a Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, try serving this dish in shallow wide bowls for a dramatic, bistro-style effect—top each bowl with a big chunk of glistening fish. Alternatively, assemble individual portions in small cast iron pans or oven-safe dishes for a fun, rustic touch. For a party, you can even spoon portions onto lettuce cups for a laid-back, tapas-style vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One Pan Fish & Risoni keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to two days. Simply let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. The flavors continue to meld and intensify overnight, making the leftovers a comforting next-day lunch.
Freezing
While pasta dishes with delicate fish generally taste best fresh, you can freeze leftover One Pan Fish & Risoni in a pinch. Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer bags, and freeze for up to one month. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge rather than microwaving from frozen.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the pan and warm gently on the stovetop, covering to retain moisture. The fish will stay tender and the pasta will revive beautifully. If using a microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring midway. Either way, garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon just before serving to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the white fish for any firm, flaky variety such as haddock, tilapia, or even salmon. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since some fish cook faster than others.
Is risoni the same as orzo?
Yes, risoni and orzo are exactly the same thing—just different names used in various countries. Both refer to that adorable, rice-shaped pasta that’s perfect for soaking up all the tomato-rich broth in this dish.
How can I make One Pan Fish & Risoni gluten-free?
If you’re gluten sensitive, there are now several great gluten-free orzo brands available. Just substitute the pasta and keep an eye on cooking times, as gluten-free varieties may cook a bit differently.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While One Pan Fish & Risoni really shines when freshly made, you can prep all your chopping and even cook the vegetables and pasta mixture ahead. Just add the fish and do the final simmer right before serving for best results.
What should I do if my risoni absorbs too much liquid?
If your risoni looks a bit dry before you add the fish, simply stir in an extra splash of broth or water to loosen it up. This ensures a saucy, luscious texture right up to the last bite.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you’ll give One Pan Fish & Risoni a spot on your dinner rotation—it’s a weeknight winner with weekend dinner party vibes, all in one irresistible pan. Let it transport you straight to a sunny Mediterranean kitchen, and don’t forget to make it your own with whatever fish or veggies you have on hand. Happy cooking!
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One Pan Fish & Risoni Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Fish & Risoni recipe is a delightful Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender white fish with flavorful orzo pasta, all cooked together in a single pan for easy preparation and cleanup. With a vibrant mix of vegetables and herbs, this one-pan wonder is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Risoni and Vegetables:
- 1 1/2 cups risoni (orzo pasta)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Other Ingredients:
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 lbs white fish fillets (such as cod, snapper, or barramundi), cut into large chunks
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Risoni and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan. Cook onion and garlic until softened. Add bell pepper, zucchini, and cook for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Risoni: Add risoni, diced tomatoes, broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer covered for 8–10 minutes until almost tender.
- Add the Fish: Nestle fish into the pan, spoon liquid over them, cover, and cook for 6–8 minutes until fish is opaque and risoni is al dente.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze lemon juice over the dish, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- You can swap the fish for prawns or salmon.
- For extra flavor, add chili flakes or tomato paste with the broth.
- Leftovers reheat well the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
