The term “yellow fish” might spark curiosity about specific species like yellowtail or yellow perch, or it could hint at recipes where yellow hues shine through bold spices and sauces.
If you’re searching for “yellow fish recipes,” you’re likely craving a mix of flavor, color, and perhaps a dash of culinary creativity to elevate your seafood game.
In this collection, we’ve rounded up 15 yellow fish recipes that cater to every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re cooking a solo meal, feeding a family, or impressing guests, these yellow fish recipes promise to brighten your plate and your palate. Let’s dive into this golden lineup!
1. Yellow Fish Curry with Cod
This vibrant curry transforms cod into a comforting masterpiece with a creamy, turmeric-rich yellow sauce that’s bursting with Southeast Asian flavor.
It’s a quick weeknight winner that pairs beautifully with jasmine rice, offering a balance of spice and creaminess to warm your soul.
The bell peppers add a pop of color and crunch, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 can (14 oz.) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How to Make
Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in curry paste for 1 minute, then add coconut milk, bring to a simmer, add cod chunks, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the fish flakes easily. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with cilantro, and serve over rice.
2. Pan-Seared Yellow Belly with Lemon Butter Sauce
Yellow belly fish shines in this simple yet elegant dish, finished with a zesty lemon butter sauce that adds a golden touch to its naturally mild flavor.
The quick sear locks in moisture, while the sauce elevates it to restaurant-worthy status with minimal effort.
It’s perfect for a light dinner, especially when paired with roasted veggies or a crisp salad.
Ingredients
- 4 yellow belly fillets
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make
Season fillets with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon butter and sear the fish for 3-4 minutes per side until golden. Remove fish, then add remaining butter, garlic, and lemon juice to the pan, stirring for 1 minute; pour over the fish, garnish with parsley, and serve.
3. Korean Fried Whole Yellow Croaker
Crispy and savory, this Korean classic turns whole yellow croaker into a delightful treat with a unique soju marinade and glutinous rice flour coating.
The frying method delivers a satisfying crunch, while the marinade infuses subtle depth, making it a standout dish.
Serve it with soy dipping sauce for an authentic, flavorful experience that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 2 whole yellow croakers, cleaned
- 2 tablespoons soju (or rice wine)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup glutinous rice flour
- Oil for frying
- Soy sauce (for dipping)
How to Make
Marinate fish in soju, garlic, and ginger for 15 minutes. Pat dry, coat in rice flour, and fry in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels and serve with soy sauce on the side.
4. Yellowfin Tuna Ceviche
Bright and zesty, this Peruvian-style ceviche showcases yellowfin tuna with a kick of aji Amarillo, embodying the “yellow fish” theme in both fish and flavor.
The lime juice “cooks” the tuna, creating a refreshing, no-heat dish that’s ideal for warm days.
Paired with plantain chips, it’s a light yet bold appetizer that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb yellowfin tuna, diced
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1 aji amarillo pepper, minced (or substitute yellow bell pepper with chili)
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
How to Make
Combine tuna, lime juice, aji Amarillo, onion, and salt in a bowl. Let marinate in the fridge for 15 minutes until the fish turns opaque. Stir in cilantro and serve chilled with plantain chips.
5. Braised Yellow Croaker with Garlic and Tofu
A comforting Chinese dish, this braised yellow croaker pairs with tofu in a savory, garlicky sauce that’s rich and satisfying.
The initial frying adds a crisp exterior, while the braising melds the flavors into a hearty, umami-packed meal.
It’s a wholesome option that’s perfect with steamed rice for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 yellow croakers, cleaned
- 1 block firm tofu, cubed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ground bean sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons oil
How to Make
Fry fish in oil until golden, about 3 minutes per side, then remove. Sauté garlic and bean sauce in the same pan, add soy sauce, water, and tofu, then return fish to simmer for 15 minutes until flavors meld. Serve hot with rice.
6. Yellowtail Tataki with Furikake
This Japanese-inspired dish lightly sears yellowtail, adding a sprinkle of furikake for a quick, stunning result that highlights the fish’s buttery texture.
The yuzu-mayo drizzle adds a tangy, creamy finish, making it a sophisticated appetizer or light meal.
It’s a breeze to prepare, perfect for sushi lovers craving something fresh.
Ingredients
- 2 yellowtail fillets
- 1 tablespoon furikake seasoning
- 2 tablespoons mayo
- 1 teaspoon yuzu juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- Salt to taste
How to Make
Season fillets with salt, heat oil in a skillet, and sear fish for 30 seconds per side. Slice thinly, sprinkle with furikake, and drizzle with a mix of mayo and yuzu juice. Serve chilled.
7. Thai Yellow Fish Curry with Prawns and Crab
A luxurious curry with a homemade yellow paste, this dish combines fish, prawns, and crab for a seafood extravaganza that’s bold and aromatic.
The coconut milk creates a creamy base, while bamboo shoots add texture to this feast-worthy meal.
Serve with sticky rice for a dinner party showstopper that transports you to Thailand.
Ingredients
- 2 white fish fillets (e.g., cod)
- 1/2 lb prawns, peeled
- 1/2 cup crab meat
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons yellow curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 cup bamboo shoots
- Thai basil (for garnish)
How to Make
Simmer curry paste in coconut milk for 2 minutes, add fish sauce, bamboo shoots, fish, prawns, and crab, and cook for 10-12 minutes until seafood is done. Garnish with Thai basil and serve with sticky rice.
8. Yellow Fish (Smoked Haddock with Butter and Milk)
A nostalgic British classic, this smoked haddock dish glows with natural yellow tones and offers simple, heartwarming comfort.
The gentle poaching in milk keeps the fish tender, while butter adds a rich finish.
Pair it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a cozy, no-fuss meal that feels like home.
Ingredients
- 2 smoked haddock fillets
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
Place haddock in a skillet, cover with milk, and add butter. Simmer over low heat for 10-12 minutes until flaky, season lightly with salt and pepper, and serve with mashed potatoes or bread.
9. Yellowfin Tuna Tacos with Mango Salsa
These summery tacos feature grilled yellowfin tuna topped with a vibrant mango salsa, blending rich fish with tropical sweetness.
The quick grilling keeps the tuna juicy, while the salsa adds a fresh, zesty contrast. Perfect for a casual meal, they’re a crowd-pleaser that brings sunshine to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 yellowfin tuna steaks
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 mango, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
Grill tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, then flake into tortillas. Mix mango, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt for salsa, top tacos, and serve immediately.
10. Yellow Curry Poached Cod
Delicate cod poaches in a fragrant yellow curry broth, offering a light yet flavorful meal with Thai-inspired depth.
The coconut milk and curry paste create a silky, aromatic sauce that’s gentle on the fish, making it a healthy standout.
Serve over rice with fresh herbs for a dish that’s both soothing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 cod fillets
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon yellow curry paste
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Fresh herbs (for garnish)
How to Make
Sauté shallot and curry paste in a skillet for 1 minute, add coconut milk and fish sauce, bring to a simmer, then add cod to poach for 8-10 minutes until tender. Garnish with herbs and serve over rice.
11. Pan-Fried Yellow Croaker with Teriyaki Sauce
Crispy yellow croaker gets a sweet-savory glaze in this easy, Japanese-inspired dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner.
The flour coating ensures a golden crunch, while the teriyaki sauce adds a sticky, flavorful finish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for a touch of nutty elegance that ties it all together.
Ingredients
- 2 yellow croakers, cleaned
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Oil for frying
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How to Make
Coat fish in flour and fry in hot oil for 4-5 minutes per side, mix soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then glaze fish in the pan for 1 minute. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.
12. Yellowtail en Papillote
Yellowtail bakes in parchment with herbs and veggies, locking in moisture and flavor for an elegant, healthy meal.
The steaming process infuses the fish with lemon and thyme, while the veggies add a colorful, tender side.
It’s a fuss-free, sophisticated option that’s perfect for a special dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 yellowtail fillets
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place fillets, lemon, thyme, and veggies on parchment, drizzle with oil, and season. Fold into packets, bake for 20 minutes, and serve in the parchment.
13. Sicilian Yellowfin Tuna Crudo
A raw, refined dish, this yellowfin tuna crudo shines with Sicilian simplicity and bright, fresh flavors.
The olive oil and lemon zest enhance the tuna’s natural richness, while capers add a briny pop.
Serve it chilled as a light appetizer that’s perfect for seafood purists or a warm evening.
Ingredients
- 1 lb yellowfin tuna, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon capers
- Cracked pepper to taste
How to Make
Arrange tuna on a plate, drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with zest, capers, and pepper. Chill for 10 minutes and serve as a refreshing starter.
14. Yellow Perch with Panko Crust
Crispy panko coats yellow perch in this hearty, baked dish that’s perfect for freshwater fish lovers craving texture.
The paprika adds a subtle warmth and golden hue, making it a standout comfort food. Pair with tartar sauce or lemon wedges for a satisfying, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 4 yellow perch fillets
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How to Make
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), mix panko, paprika, salt, and pepper, coat fillets in oil, then press into panko mix. Bake on a sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden, and serve with lemon.
Conclusion
These 14 mouthwatering yellow fish recipes bring a variety of global flavors, cooking techniques, and vibrant ingredients to your kitchen.
Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing like ceviche, a rich and creamy curry, or a crispy,
pan-fried delight, there’s a dish here to satisfy every seafood lover.
Which of these recipes are you most excited to try? Let me know if you need any cooking tips!